Despite the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) opening the VPN registration process on December 19, no companies have submitted registration requests as of yet, sources disclosed on Monday.
Also Read: PTA Resumes VPN Registration, Introduces Class Licences for Data Services
The initiative requires VPN providers to establish local data centres, comply with data protection laws, and pay licensing fees ranging from Rs200,000 to Rs400,000. The PTA plans to use this framework to improve cybersecurity by monitoring user data and browsing history, which will help detect and trace cyberattacks.
PTA officials, however, anticipate applications within the next two to four weeks as discussions with stakeholders, including P@SHA, continue. The licensing process aims to streamline operations and enhance regulatory oversight of VPN services.
