The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has gained the authority to access the browsing history and data of internet users.
According to a report by a private TV channel, PTA has resumed the registration of Virtual Private Network (VPN) service providers and is issuing class licenses for data services to companies offering these services.
Sources within PTA state that, through the class license, VPN service providers will be locally registered, allowing for the monitoring and regulation of their activities.
PTA explains that companies will be required to pay between 100,000 and 300,000 Pakistani rupees for the class license for data services. Under this process, companies will also be required to establish local data centers, while PTA will have the authority to detect and trace cyberattacks. Additionally, PTA will have access to users’ data and browsing history.
This decision was requested by the Pakistan Software Houses Association, and the implementation is being carried out with the consultation of stakeholders. The move aims to improve cybersecurity in the country.
