In Pakistan, the second and final phase of implementing a firewall to control social media apps and platforms like WhatsApp has been successfully completed.
Reports indicate that the final test of this firewall, designed to regulate social media, has been completed. However, officials from the Ministry of IT and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have declined to comment on the matter. The Ministry of IT considers this issue under PTA’s jurisdiction, but the PTA has not provided any statements.
Notably, disruptions have affected social media services such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in Pakistan over the past few days. Mobile companies assert that the issue does not originate from their networks, while PTA officials remain silent. High authorities recently confirmed that the slowdown in internet services is due to the firewall testing.
Sources suggest that the government is preparing to install a firewall system within mobile networks to control social media usage and prevent access to objectionable content. The first test of this system, conducted on July 26, caused significant difficulties for users trying to access social media apps.
Additionally, there are reports that the government plans to implement a system known as the “Great Firewall of Pakistan.” This system would establish a framework to regulate top online services and introduce legislation to bring social media platforms under the authority of PTA or PEMRA.
