ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has resumed the registrations of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) under the new strategy in response to the authority’s previous failure to enforce compliance.
Under the new framework, the companies will acquire class licences for data services at fees ranging from Rs100,000 to Rs300,000.
This measure is designed to enhance cybersecurity by granting the authority access to user data and browsing history, enabling more effective detection and tracing of cyberattacks.
Through this, the regulator will classify those VPNs as unregistered and subsequently blocked which will not be provided by licensed entities.
The new framework mandates VPN providers to establish data centers within Pakistan and comply with local data protection laws.
According to PTA’s press release, all VPN service providers must obtain a Class License for Data Services to offer VPN and other related services. It is interesting to note here that this license does not encompass the provision of Internet Services.
Local Loop Licensees could but need to obtain separate prior permission that has not yet been acquired.