The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has reinstated the registration process for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as part of a new strategy, following previous challenges in enforcing compliance.
Under this revised framework, companies will be required to obtain class licenses for data services, with fees ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs300,000.
This initiative aims to bolster cybersecurity by allowing the authority access to user data and browsing histories, thereby facilitating more efficient detection and tracking of cyber threats.
As a result, the regulator will categorize VPNs that are not offered by licensed providers as unregistered and will subsequently block them.
The new regulations stipulate that VPN providers must establish data centers within Pakistan and adhere to local data protection regulations.
According to a press release from the PTA, all VPN service providers are required to secure a Class License for Data Services in order to offer VPN and related services. It is noteworthy that this license does not include the provision of Internet Services.
Local Loop Licensees may be able to provide such services but must first obtain separate permissions, which have not yet been granted.
