Last month, the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) gave users using Virtual Private Networks (VPN) software until June 30 to register to access all types of content on the Internet in the country. However, this period has now been extended.
According to a statement issued by PTA, the VPN registration period has been extended by one month to facilitate businesses and the general public.
Users will now be able to register until July 31.
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The statement urged Internet users to register their VPN with their Internet service provider by July 31, while contacting the email address ipreport@pta.gov.pk for relevant information.
Earlier, in mid-June, a report in the Dawn newspaper stated that users who did not register would not be able to use any of the VPN software after the deadline.
At the time, the PTA said that until June 30, all users could register for a VPN for free with Internet service providers.
In this regard, PTA has provided 2 forms to the internet service providers, after which the users will be registered.
The registration form provided to Dawn by an Internet service provider indicates that the user will also need to provide sensitive information for registration.
To register a VPN, the user will need to provide details of the VPN software, including their Internet Protocol (IP) address, as well as the purpose of using it or their business.
To register, the user has to fill 2 forms and the user has to submit some required documents and affidavit.
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Regarding VPN registration, the PTA said the move was aimed at curbing illegal activities in the country and protecting the national exchequer from damage.
VPNs not only allow ordinary users to access controversial and banned Internet content in the country, but are also used by businesses and especially banks.
Mobile and internet operators also use such software to do illegal business, while some businesses also use this software to make illegal money transactions to avoid taxes.
This step of VPN registration by PTA is being taken under its 2010 Monitoring and Reconciliation of Telephone Traffic Regulations (MRITT) Act Provides the ability to monitor and block secret phone calls and Internet service.
The PTA had advised Internet users to register for VPN by June 30, otherwise they would lose access to such software.
The PTA also warned that after June 30, strict action would be taken against individuals and entities working illegally using VPNs.
PTA’s announcement of VPN registration date comes at a time when many internet users have recently complained that VPN software is not working.
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Users complained that they were having difficulty accessing the VPN even through the Tory browser, which gives them easy access to the VPN.
Press Release: In order to facilitate businesses and general public for registration of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), PTA has decided to extend the VPN registration deadline for a period of one month to 31st July, 2020. pic.twitter.com/6fHZM7TUF5
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) July 1, 2020
However, the PTA clarified that it has not yet taken any action regarding VPN or Tory browser and action will be taken after June 30 in this regard.
