New Policy Allows Only Approved VPNs, Triggered by Increased Demand Post-X Ban

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is formulating a strategy to regulate Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) across the country, permitting only approved VPNs to operate. This initiative follows a notable rise in VPN usage in 2024, largely due to the ban on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

The ban, implemented on February 17, led to a 131% increase in VPN demand within two days. Surfshark, a VPN service provider, reported a 300-400% surge in new users from Pakistan after the ban. Despite this, the ban resulted in a 70% reduction in X users accessing the platform via VPNs, raising questions about the ban’s overall effectiveness.

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While the PTA’s new policy aims to control VPN usage, it also reflects the challenges in enforcing such regulations. The surge in VPN adoption highlights the public’s demand for unrestricted internet access, prompting further debate on the balance between regulation and digital freedom.

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