PTA allows VPN registration against mobile numbers

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in its bid to facilitate freelancers, has announced the registration of virtual private networks (VPNs) against mobile numbers for those internet users who lack a static IP address.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the PTA said: "The step is aimed to further simplify the VPN registration process for facilitation of the IT industry".

Revealing that over 31,000 VPNs have been registered so far, the regulatory body advised users to register the VPNs against mobile numbers by accessing its website.

The development comes as the PTA, in light of security concerns raised by the government, had announced to initiate a crackdown against unregistered VPNs.

The body had initially set out a November 30 deadline for VPN registration. However, later it decided to not block VPNs on the expiration of the deadline maintaining that it would go beyond it.

The Ministry of Interior had announced to begin the process of shutting down all unregistered VPNs by the middle of November but later announced a two-week "grace period" allowing the unregistered VPNs to comply with mandatory registration requirements.

Speaking to the media Chairman Maj Gen (Retd) Hafeez Ur Rehman had confirmed that the authority would not block VPNs, as the government had decided to grant an extension to the stipulated deadline.

VPNs, commonly used worldwide to bypass restricted content and ensure data security, have witnessed a notable increase in their usage in Pakistan after authorities banned social media site X (formerly Twitter) earlier this year over "national security" concerns.

Stakeholders, including the IT industry and freelancers, have been pushing for an extension of the deadline for registration.

The PTA, according to sources, has emphasised that VPN registration is crucial for enhancing cybersecurity and ensuring national security and data protection.

VPN registration

The VPN registration process involves completing an online form and providing basic details, including computerised national identity card (CNIC), company registration details and taxpayer status.

Freelancers must submit documentation, such as a letter or email, verifying their project or company association, said the statement by the PTA.

Additionally, applicants must provide the IP address for VPN connectivity. If a fixed IP address is required, it can be acquired from an Internet Service Provider (ISP).