ISPs urge government to extend VPN registration deadline

KARACHI: The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association (WISPA) has called on the government to extend the deadline for VPN registration, ARY News reported.

In a formal letter addressed to the Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, WISPA’s chairman highlighted that freelancers and citizens have already begun the VPN registration process proactively.

The letter emphasized the association’s efforts to encourage secure VPN usage among users and the need for greater public awareness about the registration process. WISPA proposed collaboration between service providers and the IT industry to simplify the process and make it more user-friendly.

Additionally, the association stressed the importance of restoring trust among sceptical users, suggesting that an extended deadline would help the government achieve its goals more effectively.

Read More: PTA simplifies VPN registration for freelancers.

On November 19, 2024, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) introduced a streamlined VPN registration process for freelancers and organizations. This system allows software houses, call centres, banks, embassies, and freelancers to register their VPNs easily through PTA’s official website.

Members of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) also benefit from this facility, as noted in a PTA press statement.

The registration process involves completing an online form with details such as CNIC, company registration, and taxpayer status. Freelancers must provide proof of their affiliation with a project or organization, such as a letter or email.

Approvals are typically completed within 8 to 10 hours. To date, over 20,000 companies and freelancers have successfully registered their VPNs through the system. Commercial users must submit the required details and employer verification to use VPNs for business purposes.

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