The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has minimized the impact of ongoing WhatsApp service issues, attributing them to a possible “technical glitch.” Since July 20, many users in Pakistan have experienced problems sending and receiving media files like voice notes, photos, and videos on WhatsApp via mobile networks. Complaints included delays and failures in media downloads, with some users receiving error messages.
Downdetector, a platform tracking website and app issues, has reported continued WhatsApp outages in Pakistan. Representatives from two telecom operators confirmed the issue but stated it was not due to problems on their end. PTA spokesperson Malahat Obaid denied any issues with WhatsApp or other social media apps, blaming the disruptions on a technical glitch without specifying its cause.
Read more: Why Mobile Data Users In Pakistan Are Unable To Access WhatsApp And Facebook?
Usama Khilji, director of the digital rights advocacy group Bolo Bhi, suggested that the disruptions might be related to a new government firewall intended to control internet and communication technologies. Khilji criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the firewall system as “criminal.” The PTA and telecom companies are investigating to restore uninterrupted service. Pakistan has 52.3 million WhatsApp users, according to the World Population Review.
