ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has intensified its regulatory measures by blocking a significant number of websites that propagate obscene or profane content. According to sources, the PTA has taken down over 844,008 websites flagged for obscene content, along with more than 100,000 URLs containing blasphemous material.
This move aligns with PTA’s ongoing efforts to control harmful online content and maintain cultural integrity. In addition to restricting such websites, the PTA has begun a trial phase to block unregistered Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) temporarily, emphasizing cybersecurity concerns. The authority considers unregistered VPNs a “security risk” due to their potential use in accessing sensitive data without oversight.
To manage VPN access more securely, PTA has directed businesses, including IT firms, software houses, freelancers, and banks, to register their IP addresses. This ensures that only authorized entities can maintain secure and uninterrupted VPN access. Registered users are required to disclose their business activities and reasons for VPN use as part of the PTA’s monitoring procedures.
VPN registration is not new; PTA has been overseeing this process since 2010, with approximately 20,500 VPNs registered so far. This registration is crucial for the PTA’s strategy to safeguard Pakistan’s digital space and prevent unauthorized access to critical information.
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