Only ‘illegal VPNs’ being banned, says former P@SHA chairman

Zohaib Khan says country must address its cybersecurity challenges as internet usage becomes ubiquitous

By Aimen Siddiqui
November 26, 2024
Former Chairperson of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) Muhammad Zohaib Khan addressing at Aptech 2023. — X@PASHAORG/File
Former Chairperson of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) Muhammad Zohaib Khan addressing at Aptech 2023. — X@PASHAORG/File

KARACHI: Former Chairperson of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) Muhammad Zohaib Khan has clarified that the claim of VPNs being completely banned in Pakistan is incorrect. He stated that only illegal VPNs are being targeted, a practice not unique to Pakistan but implemented worldwide.

In his comments to The News, Zohaib Khan explained that many companies, especially large organisations, often use VPNs for major international projects. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) provides approvals for such cases, allowing them to be whitelisted. Freelancers can also apply for whitelisting from the PTA.

He added that over the past two to three years, fibre-optic internet has faced minimal disruptions. Even if internet services are restricted for security reasons, users on fixed-line connections remain unaffected.

Per Khan, national security is of paramount importance, and Pakistan must address its cybersecurity challenges as internet usage becomes ubiquitous. He suggested the government implement ‘cyber fencing’ to curb the misuse of VPNs by individuals hiding their identities for illegal activities. Such misuse can include sending fake or blackmail emails, and even terrorists use illegal VPNs to conceal their identities. Therefore, he stressed, banning illegal VPNs is essential.

The former P@SHA chairperson also highlighted the need for a comprehensive awareness campaign on social media rules to protect the IT brand Pakistan has built over the past two to three years. Spreading misinformation about internet shutdowns on social media damages Pakistan’s reputation globally, he added.

Last week, the Wireless & Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) also stressed the need for a balanced and collaborative approach to regulating VPNs in Pakistan. “Regulatory measures should focus on deterring harmful activities without impeding legitimate use cases that drive progress and safeguard data integrity,” the WISPAP chairperson said in a statement.