The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has reopened registration for virtual private network (VPN) service providers, setting class license fees for data services between Rs100,000 and Rs300,000. This move aims to place VPN services under regulatory scrutiny, requiring them to utilize locally registered data centres and adhere to national data protection laws.
PTA officials state that this licensing framework is designed to allow for effective monitoring and regulation of VPN services. A key feature of the licensing terms grants the PTA access to user data and browsing history, enhancing cybersecurity efforts and improving the authority’s ability to identify and respond to cyberattacks.
This initiative follows consultations with key stakeholders, such as the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), which advocated for a formal registration process to simplify operations. Additionally, VPN providers must comply with local data protection laws and establish in-country data centres to meet regulatory and monitoring needs.
Read: New VPN Registration Framework Introduced by PTA
Previously, the PTA issued licenses for internet and cellular services and vehicle trackers. It has expanded its licensing to include VPNs, aiming to regulate better services provided by local companies under Pakistani laws and regulations. This shift from predominantly foreign VPN providers to local ones allows the PTA to exert more comprehensive control.
According to PTA’s published documents, the conditions for existing service providers now also apply to VPN services. Companies must provide any information the PTA deems necessary for assessing the spread and impact of these technologies and services, covering technical, regulatory, and financial aspects.
