ISLAMABAD, (TDI): The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced new regulations mandating the registration of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for a range of sectors, including banks, embassies, IT firms, software houses, and freelancers.
This move is part of an effort to enhance data security and ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity for businesses and individuals operating in Pakistan.
The PTA’s decision comes as part of a broader initiative to improve the security and management of online activities within the country. A recent consultation meeting held in Islamabad gathered representatives from various government departments, including the Ministry of IT, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the State Bank of Pakistan.
Key industry figures, such as the CEO of the Pakistan Software Export Board, the chairman of the Pakistan Software House Association (Pasha), and the CEO of the Pakistan Freelancers Association, also participated in the discussions.
The main focus of the meeting was to address the process for VPN registration and its role in enhancing the security of digital transactions and communications. The PTA emphasized that the registration would help secure sensitive data, maintain stable internet access for businesses, and prevent disruptions to critical operations.
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However, the Pakistan Software House Association (Pasha) raised concerns about the short timeline for implementation, particularly for unregistered VPNs.
The association called for more time to consult with stakeholders and ensure a smooth transition to the new system, stressing that additional time would be crucial for compliance and minimizing disruption.
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The PTA acknowledged the need for continuous improvement in the VPN registration process and assured participants that their feedback would be considered in refining the approach.
While the regulatory requirements are now mandatory for the specified sectors, the PTA emphasized that the process would be designed to accommodate the needs of businesses while ensuring a secure and reliable internet environment.
