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LHC questions govt seriousness in fixing internet disruptions

The Lahore High Court (LHC) grilled the state counsel on Friday for his lack of knowledge and seriousness about recent internet disruptions across the country and expressed its intent to pass an appropriate order on the matter.

Presiding over the hearing of a public interest petition filed by Advocate Nadeem Sarwar, Justice Shakeel Ahmed of the LHC directed an assistant attorney general to consult with relevant authorities and present a report after a break.

When the hearing resumed, Justice Ahmed emphasised the public interest nature of the issue and stated that the court would issue an appropriate order.

The government’s lawyer requested additional time to submit a detailed report on the internet disruptions, noting that consultation with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was necessary to determine the cause of the slowdown.

Expressing dissatisfaction, Justice Ahmed questioned the seriousness of the government’s response, highlighting the law officer’s lack of sufficient information despite the issue’s critical public importance. The judge adjourned the hearing until Aug 21.

In his petition, Advocate Sarwar argued that millions of Pakistanis rely on internet services for essential communication and business activities. He said that by blocking, filtering or shutting down these services, the government was undermining civic space, fostering a climate of economic uncertainty and disrupting access to healthcare, online business, and emergency and financial transactions.

He lamented that abrupt internet outages prevent technology firms from meeting deadlines, causing financial losses and damaging their credibility. The petitioner said the slowdowns have harmed technology firms and freelancers. He also pointed out that major platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp have been severely affected since last week.

He urged the court to declare that internet shutdowns violate the Constitution and order the government to ensure uninterrupted internet connectivity.

Hamid Mir moves IHC

Meanwhile, senior journalist Hamid Mir moved the Islamabad High Court (IHC) against internet slowdown.

The petition, filed through Advocate Imaan Mazari, argued that the petitioner seeks redressal for the glaring violations of citizens’ fundamental rights due to the apparent installation of a firewall, drastically reduced internet speeds, routine network disruptions, and the federal government’s denial of these issues.

Mr Mir contended that he, along with other journalists, are facing difficulties in performing their duties due to these connectivity issues.

The petition highlighted that Mr Mir fosters public engagement in his talk shows through the social media platform X, announcing topics an hour before airing and incorporating public opinions.

DAWN NEWS
 
Reports suggesting internet being throttled by govt ‘completely false’: IT minister

In the wake of internet disruptions across the country and speculation over firewall installations, State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said on Sunday that reports suggesting that the internet was being throttled by the government were “completely false.”

On Thursday, Khawaja said that the government had ordered the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and other relevant bodies to submit a report after citizens in various cities of Pakistan claimed they had been facing internet connectivity issues.

Her statement came a day after the business community and internet service providers alleged that the government’s heightened efforts to monitor internet traffic had resulted in a significant nationwide slowdown of services, leading to losses.

On Saturday, the Lahore High Court summoned representatives from the federal government, the information ministry, and the PTA on August 21 over internet disruptions.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad today, Khawaja acknowledged the recent frustration among the public regarding internet issues.

“I want to reassure the public that the internet has neither been shut down nor slowed down by the state,” she said.

“Reports suggesting that the internet was being throttled are completely false. The issue was limited to a few services on certain apps not downloading, which led a large segment of the population to start using VPNs.”

She explained that when a large number of people use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) or local caches and connect directly to live servers, it puts additional pressure on those servers, which can ultimately slow down the internet.

“Even when you use VPNs on your phones, you may notice that your device automatically slows down. This is because the increased traffic exerts pressure, which led to the internet slowing down for a few days,” she said.

“I can say under oath that the government neither shut down nor slowed down the internet.”

Khawaja claimed that the government had been “working tirelessly” to resolve the issue and has held meetings with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and telecom companies.

A meeting, she said, had also been scheduled with the PTA next week to “ensure that users in the country do not face similar problems again.”

She reiterated that there was “no truth to the rumor that the government is throttling the internet to suppress dissent.”

The minister also urged citizens to “speak responsibly” about Pakistan since the internet was a “critical resource, and we must handle discussions about it with care.”

Irresponsible talk can damage the industry, deter investment, hurt freelancers, and negatively impact Pakistan’s perception abroad, she said.

She further acknowledged the country’s challenges related to the health of the telecom sector born from constrained revenues.

“The government is committed to investing in digitalization, developing policies, and allocating budgets to promote this industry,” Khawaja said.

‘Govt setting up a firewall blown out of proportion’

Earlier this week, Khawaja acknowledged the public’s concerns and said that the internet should never be slow and that news about a firewall being installed by the government was “blown out of proportion”.

“We have even been talking about bringing 5G technology to Pakistan. There is no doubt about that, and conversations about higher [internet] speed are underway.”

The minister added that the government setting up a firewall had been blown out of proportion, adding that it was a routine exercise across the globe to enhance internet security.

“There was a web-management system being operated by the government before too, which is now being upgraded,” she had said. “It is the right of the government to [take such measures] given the cyber security attacks that this country has to go through.

DAWN NEWS
 
BouncerGuy said:
Reports suggesting internet being throttled by govt ‘completely false’: IT minister

In the wake of internet disruptions across the country and speculation over firewall installations, State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said on Sunday that reports suggesting that the internet was being throttled by the government were “completely false.”

On Thursday, Khawaja said that the government had ordered the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and other relevant bodies to submit a report after citizens in various cities of Pakistan claimed they had been facing internet connectivity issues.

Her statement came a day after the business community and internet service providers alleged that the government’s heightened efforts to monitor internet traffic had resulted in a significant nationwide slowdown of services, leading to losses.

On Saturday, the Lahore High Court summoned representatives from the federal government, the information ministry, and the PTA on August 21 over internet disruptions.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad today, Khawaja acknowledged the recent frustration among the public regarding internet issues.

“I want to reassure the public that the internet has neither been shut down nor slowed down by the state,” she said.

“Reports suggesting that the internet was being throttled are completely false. The issue was limited to a few services on certain apps not downloading, which led a large segment of the population to start using VPNs.”

She explained that when a large number of people use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) or local caches and connect directly to live servers, it puts additional pressure on those servers, which can ultimately slow down the internet.

“Even when you use VPNs on your phones, you may notice that your device automatically slows down. This is because the increased traffic exerts pressure, which led to the internet slowing down for a few days,” she said.

“I can say under oath that the government neither shut down nor slowed down the internet.”

Khawaja claimed that the government had been “working tirelessly” to resolve the issue and has held meetings with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and telecom companies.

A meeting, she said, had also been scheduled with the PTA next week to “ensure that users in the country do not face similar problems again.”

She reiterated that there was “no truth to the rumor that the government is throttling the internet to suppress dissent.”

The minister also urged citizens to “speak responsibly” about Pakistan since the internet was a “critical resource, and we must handle discussions about it with care.”

Irresponsible talk can damage the industry, deter investment, hurt freelancers, and negatively impact Pakistan’s perception abroad, she said.

She further acknowledged the country’s challenges related to the health of the telecom sector born from constrained revenues.

“The government is committed to investing in digitalization, developing policies, and allocating budgets to promote this industry,” Khawaja said.

‘Govt setting up a firewall blown out of proportion’

Earlier this week, Khawaja acknowledged the public’s concerns and said that the internet should never be slow and that news about a firewall being installed by the government was “blown out of proportion”.

“We have even been talking about bringing 5G technology to Pakistan. There is no doubt about that, and conversations about higher [internet] speed are underway.”

The minister added that the government setting up a firewall had been blown out of proportion, adding that it was a routine exercise across the globe to enhance internet security.

“There was a web-management system being operated by the government before too, which is now being upgraded,” she had said. “It is the right of the government to [take such measures] given the cyber security attacks that this country has to go through.

DAWN NEWS
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Pakistani experts refute IT Minister’s claim about internet disruption

During a news conference in Islamabad, Shaza Fatima stated that the internet was neither blocked nor deliberately slowed down, but rather that the increased use of VPNs caused technical strain on the network.

She mentioned that as certain services became restricted, more users turned to VPNs, which she claimed negatively impacted internet speed in the country.

In response, IT expert Malik Mudassar, speaking to ARY News, rejected this claim, arguing that VPN usage only slows down the individual user’s connection by 10 to 15 percent and does not cause nationwide internet issues.

Mudassar suggested that the real cause might be the installation of a firewall to monitor social traffic, which could be affecting overall internet speed.

He recommended that the government implement targeted firewalls to avoid disrupting online businesses and general internet use.

The minister assured that mobile companies are working with technical experts to resolve the issue and promised that steps would be taken to prevent such problems in the future.

arynews.tv

Pakistani experts refute IT Minister's claim about internet disruption

ISLAMABAD: The Information Technology (IT) experts refused the Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima’s claim that the widespread use of Virtual Private
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
BouncerGuy said:
Reports suggesting internet being throttled by govt ‘completely false’: IT minister

In the wake of internet disruptions across the country and speculation over firewall installations, State Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said on Sunday that reports suggesting that the internet was being throttled by the government were “completely false.”

On Thursday, Khawaja said that the government had ordered the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and other relevant bodies to submit a report after citizens in various cities of Pakistan claimed they had been facing internet connectivity issues.

Her statement came a day after the business community and internet service providers alleged that the government’s heightened efforts to monitor internet traffic had resulted in a significant nationwide slowdown of services, leading to losses.

On Saturday, the Lahore High Court summoned representatives from the federal government, the information ministry, and the PTA on August 21 over internet disruptions.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad today, Khawaja acknowledged the recent frustration among the public regarding internet issues.

“I want to reassure the public that the internet has neither been shut down nor slowed down by the state,” she said.

“Reports suggesting that the internet was being throttled are completely false. The issue was limited to a few services on certain apps not downloading, which led a large segment of the population to start using VPNs.”

She explained that when a large number of people use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) or local caches and connect directly to live servers, it puts additional pressure on those servers, which can ultimately slow down the internet.

“Even when you use VPNs on your phones, you may notice that your device automatically slows down. This is because the increased traffic exerts pressure, which led to the internet slowing down for a few days,” she said.

“I can say under oath that the government neither shut down nor slowed down the internet.”

Khawaja claimed that the government had been “working tirelessly” to resolve the issue and has held meetings with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and telecom companies.

A meeting, she said, had also been scheduled with the PTA next week to “ensure that users in the country do not face similar problems again.”

She reiterated that there was “no truth to the rumor that the government is throttling the internet to suppress dissent.”

The minister also urged citizens to “speak responsibly” about Pakistan since the internet was a “critical resource, and we must handle discussions about it with care.”

Irresponsible talk can damage the industry, deter investment, hurt freelancers, and negatively impact Pakistan’s perception abroad, she said.

She further acknowledged the country’s challenges related to the health of the telecom sector born from constrained revenues.

“The government is committed to investing in digitalization, developing policies, and allocating budgets to promote this industry,” Khawaja said.

‘Govt setting up a firewall blown out of proportion’

Earlier this week, Khawaja acknowledged the public’s concerns and said that the internet should never be slow and that news about a firewall being installed by the government was “blown out of proportion”.

“We have even been talking about bringing 5G technology to Pakistan. There is no doubt about that, and conversations about higher [internet] speed are underway.”

The minister added that the government setting up a firewall had been blown out of proportion, adding that it was a routine exercise across the globe to enhance internet security.

“There was a web-management system being operated by the government before too, which is now being upgraded,” she had said. “It is the right of the government to [take such measures] given the cyber security attacks that this country has to go through.

DAWN NEWS
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Where do we get someone idiotic and stupid people running a country of 250mns IT infrastructure.
 
Our freelancers are being destroyed by these thugs. The livlihood of 2.5mn hard working free lancers have been put risk by these crooks. What's wrong with these people
 
Bewal Express said:
Our freelancers are being destroyed by these thugs. The livlihood of 2.5mn hard working free lancers have been put risk by these crooks. What's wrong with these people
Click to expand...
Hafiz and the PML-N expended thousands in their effort to drain millions from Pakistan’s economy, all in a bid to suppress what they deem a so-called popular movement against them.
 
Internet degradation likely to continue till Aug 30

Internet services across Pakistan have been severely disrupted, causing widespread inconvenience to users. The issue has persisted for several days, affecting all internet service providers.

Social media platforms have been particularly impacted, with users experiencing difficulties even downloading audio messages. While internet service providers have attributed the problem to social media issues, mobile companies deny any involvement.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has refrained from commenting on the matter.

Meanwhile, the government has initiated a process to regulate all social media platforms. Documents reveal that a categorization-based regulatory framework will be implemented after approval from the Federal Cabinet.



english.aaj.tv

Internet degradation likely to continue till Aug 30

PTA has refrained from commenting on the matter
english.aaj.tv
 
P@SHA decries govt's 'lack of consultation' on persistent internet issue

As millions across Pakistan continue to face intermittent internet disruptions which have had an adverse effect on both communications and businesses, the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) has decried the government's unforthcoming attitude and lack of consultation on the issue.

"We want to work with them [government]. What such need arose that we have been thrown out of the loop," P@SHA Senior Vice Chairman Ali Ihsan said while speaking to Geo News on Monday.

His remarks come against the backdrop of prevailing issues faced by people and businesses due to either slow internet speed or restricted access which the experts link to increased security and surveillance owing to the installation of a firewall to control unwanted content from reaching a wider audience.

The internet firewall in question provisions filters that will block unwanted content from reaching the masses and will be used to inspect information originating from different internet protocol addresses.

There will be a keyword filtering system to detect content the government considers undesirable or prejudicial to national security etc, and such posts will likely be camouflaged and will subsequently be made invisible to outside users.

This filter will run its check on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube and X (formerly known as Twitter).

Meanwhile, preparation is also in progress to prevent the "misuse" of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as the government can declare it mandatory for citizens to inform the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) about the virtual private networks (VPNs) they are using.

However, the government, while rebuking allegations that it was responsible for internet slowdown, has attributed the issue to the use of VPNs.

"I can swear that the government of Pakistan did not block the internet or slow it down [....] Turning VPN on slows down the phone," she said during a press conference in Islamabad on Sunday.

Elaborating on the issue, the P@SHA official recalled that no issue had arisen in the past 10 years as they were kept in the loop and questioned as to what such need had emerged that they were excluded from the policy matters.

"P@SHA and the PTA had previously held discussions on ban on VPN where we advised them how businesses can be protected [...] if we were to be taken into confidence this time we would've told them to whitelist IT businesses and not subject them to internet firewall as our IPs are tracked via identification records," Ihsan said.

"We cannot guide them with solutions if the information isn't shared with us [....] If we are taken on board now we would advise them to disable certain things for two weeks and release it after thorough testing," the P@SHA representative noted.

Stressing that at least some filtering mechanism was in place for the past 10 years he questioned what had happened exactly this time that the businesses have been affected.

Commenting on the economic impact of the internet disruptions, he revealed that P@SHA estimates a loss of $300 million loss in light of existing complaints by the businesses and the reputational damage.

"If someone was giving you a business of $10-15 million and now decides against it then other clients will also raise questions in future [before giving you business.

"No matter how good your relations are [...] clients would not give you business if they got to know there some issue with the internet," he noted.

Underscoring the internet slowdown's effect on businesses, Ihsan said that leading Information Technology companies have complained that 40% of their BPO services have been affected.

We have it on record that a leading healthcare company whose business in Pakistan might be around $50 million and conducts its business primarily in the United States, its 200 lines were down for one week, whereas another has complained of losing contracts and losses in their core line of business, the P@SHA official noted.

"I myself was negotiating a contract worth $500,000 when my virtual call dropped for about one and a half hours," he decried.

Reacting to Minister Shaza Khawaja's remarks regarding the use of VPNs, he questioned as to how many people can be using the tool at the same time.

He also noted that there is a likelihood that the internet firewall itself was bypassing the content delivery networks (CDNs) due to which [internet] traffic is being choked

"We fear that certain technology was being used whose lack of proper integration will prevent this issue from being solved in the short term altogether," the association's senior vice chairman said.

www.geo.tv

P@SHA decries govt's 'lack of consultation' on persistent internet disruptions

P@SHA estimates economic loss of $300 million. Internet firewall suspected to be bypassing CDNs.We want to work with them , says Ali Ihsan. As millions across Pakistan continue to face intermittent internet disruptions which...
www.geo.tv www.geo.tv
 
It is a blessing if you do not live in Pakistan. Assuming you are not part of the tiny elite section of course.
 
The Bald Eagle said:
Bangladesh Players Upset Over Slow Internet in Pakistan

The Bangladesh cricket team, currently in Pakistan for a two-match Test series, has raised concerns with their management over slow internet connectivity, which is hindering their ability to communicate with family members back home.

The Bangladesh team arrived in Pakistan earlier than initially planned, following civil unrest in Dhaka, which prompted the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to accept an invitation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to arrive ahead of schedule.

However, their stay has been marred by internet disruptions affecting numerous Pakistani cities. These disruptions are reportedly linked to the federal government’s intensified efforts to monitor internet traffic, resulting in a significant slowdown in services nationwide.

The slow internet has particularly affected the Bangladesh players’ ability to check in with their families, adding stress to their stay in Pakistan. The team, which is currently training in Lahore, will travel to Islamabad on August 17 to continue their preparations for the first Test match.

The opening match of the series is scheduled to take place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, starting on August 21, with the second Test set to commence on August 30 in Karachi.

The widespread nature of the internet issues has led to speculation about their origins. Many users suspect that the government is behind the disruptions, possibly implementing a firewall to monitor and control online activity.

The government has been conducting trials of a social media firewall aimed at regulating online content and ensuring national security. Internet service providers have installed firewalls capable of blocking social media apps and restricting audio and video downloads, as part of efforts to curb controversial content and propaganda on social media platforms.

Source: Pro Pakistani
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Bangladeshi cricketers to complain. They live in a much backward country where they lunch minorities under police protection. In Pakistan, they’re in a much better place and must enjoy their stay. No one invites them.
 
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The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has removed the Registrar's Office's objections to a petition challenging the installation of a firewall and the slowdown of internet services

The court has scheduled the petition for hearing on Tuesday. IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq presided over the hearing regarding the petition. During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel, Imaan Mazari, argued that the objections raised by the Registrar’s Office were unjustified.

The petition urged the court to halt the installation of the firewall, arguing that it infringes on citizens' fundamental rights. It further requests that the installation of the firewall be subject to consultation with all stakeholders and be conditioned on the protection of basic rights.

The petition also called for internet access to be recognised as a fundamental human right under the Constitution, as it is essential for livelihoods.

Justice Farooq remarked that three of the objections would be considered on the judicial side, while the fourth objection pertained to the alleged use of inappropriate language in the petition.

The counsel clarified that the petition only included a tweet, which did not contain any inappropriate language. Following this clarification, the court removed the objections and directed that the case be scheduled for hearing the next day.

The petition, filed by a senior journalist, challenged the installation of a firewall and the resultant internet disruptions.

The petition named the cabinet division secretary, IT ministry secretary, Interior ministry secretary, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, and the human rights ministry as respondents.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Bewal Express said:
Where is @emranabbas
Remember when you believed your thugs. Look at this idiot, she is your IT minister.
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bro no need to tag me every post, I'm going to be honest I've been trolling you for months I'm not a PML supporter I just write anti Imran khan stuff because you get triggered by it.
 
emranabbas said:
bro no need to tag me every post, I'm going to be honest I've been trolling you for months I'm not a PML supporter I just write anti Imran khan stuff because you get triggered by it.
Click to expand...
Only 2 possibilities- you are embarrassed by these thugs and have given up defending their stupidity and criminality or..........
 
Bewal Express said:
I am not so sure. But you leave me with one less person to argue with. We need immoral losers that support thugs on the forum, or this part of the forum is boring
Click to expand...
It wasn't an argument I was just pushing your buttons and then watching you 🤣
 
Bewal Express said:
In 2024, we are promoting absolute cretins in a country of 250mn.
Click to expand...
Yes the harsh reality is majority of these N league ladies have no clue about their portfolios , infact another Minister for Info. has her husband caught by police on stealing electricity from Poles, and has F.I.R on his staff for beating Wapda officials
 
Kianig89 said:
Yes the harsh reality is majority of these N league ladies have no clue about their portfolios , infact another Minister for Info. has her husband caught by police on stealing electricity from Poles, and has F.I.R on his staff for beating Wapda officials
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I would say I am shocked but nothing is shocking about these criminals. Even pond life feels superior to them and the few supporters they have left.
 

Fault in submarine cable disrupting internet services across Pakistan, claims PTA chairman​


Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman has claimed that a fault in a submarine cable is disrupting internet services across Pakistan.

He expressed these remarks during a meeting of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Information Technology chaired by Syed Aminul Haque.

The committee session saw the participation of IT Minister Shaza Fatima, opposition leader Omar Ayub, and other members. The meeting was convened to discuss nationwide internet disruptions and social media access issues. The PTA chairman was summoned to provide a detailed briefing on the situation.

Rehman explained that a fault in one of the submarine cables has affected the internet in Pakistan. “Seven fibre optic cables connect Pakistan internationally; one of them is currently down. The consortium responsible for the cable has indicated that repairs should be completed by August 27,” he said.

"7.5 terabytes of data flow through this cable, and its outage has significantly affected internet services, especially for those using VPNs,” he claimed.

He added that the situation has led to slowed local internet services, especially for users relying on VPNs.

Discussing the internet disruptions further, committee members pressed the PTA chairman on why VPNs have become a necessity for users. Rehman explained that some data, not available on local content delivery networks (CDNs), becomes accessible via VPNs, thus leading to increased reliance on them during such outages.

Questions were also raised about whether other countries are facing similar submarine cable issues. Rehman clarified, "It’s Pakistan’s submarine cable that’s affected, not others."

Concerns over the legal standing of VPN usage were brought up, to which Rehman admitted his lack of knowledge and promptly called for the legal advisor’s input.

The PTA chairman went on to elaborate on the complexities of monitoring online content, stating, "While Article 19 guarantees freedom of expression, there are five or six categories to consider when enforcing restrictions. Each country has its system in place, and when the government issues directives to block certain content, we have to comply."

The session took a critical turn when PTCL’s president failed to attend, prompting frustration from committee members. Omar Ayub noted that he had postponed a court hearing to attend, underscoring the significance of the issue at hand.

Committee Chairman Aminul Haq issued a directive to summon PTCL’s CEO to the next session to explain the absence.

The committee pressed further on the economic impact of the disruption. Rehman disclosed that the telecom sector has incurred losses amounting to Rs300 million over the past six days. Concerns were also raised about the impact on freelancers and small businesses dependent on reliable internet access.

In response to questions about the legality of VPN use, the PTA chairman admitted his lack of clarity on the matter, prompting the summoning of a legal advisor.

Concluding the session, Haque emphasised the importance of giving due respect to the committee and ensuring attendance at future meetings.

tribune.com.pk

Fault in submarine cable disrupting internet services across Pakistan, claims PTA chairman | The Express Tribune

Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman says submarine cable repairs expected to conclude by August 27
tribune.com.pk tribune.com.pk
 
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) officials have stated that the regulatory body was unable to block Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

The disclosure was made during a meeting of the Senate Committee on Information Technology, chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammadzai Khan held in Islamabad on Thursday.

During the briefing, officials from the Pakistan Software Export Board revealed that Pakistan’s share in the global IT market is less than 0.04%.

Despite this, the country experienced a 20% growth in IT last year.

The IT sector’s exports are primarily directed to the USA (54%), Europe (21%), and Gulf countries (10%).

Additionally, the board announced the launch of the iRozgar programme, aimed at creating job opportunities at a cost of one billion rupees.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Amnesty International has called on Pakistani authorities to be "transparent" about the ongoing internet disruptions and the use of surveillance technology

Jurre Van Bergen, Technologist at Amnesty International on Monday expressed concern over the opacity surrounding the use of monitoring and surveillance tools that block content, slow down, and control internet speeds.

"The opacity of the Pakistani authorities regarding the use of monitoring and surveillance technologies that block content, slow down and control internet speeds is an alarming concern," Van Bergen said.

He said that such technologies, including national firewalls, are often incompatible with human rights.

"These pervasive tools undermine online freedom of expression and access to information," he added. "The internet is critical for the enjoyment of the public’s right to be informed, citizen’s self-expression, e-commerce, and the digital economy."

Van Bergen also highlighted the impact on the Pakistani diaspora, stating, "Internet disruptions create anxiety among Pakistani communities outside the country who are unable to connect and communicate with their loved ones."

Amnesty International urged the Pakistani authorities to clarify the reasons for these internet disruptions and ensure that monitoring and surveillance systems are not deployed in a manner that is unnecessary, disproportionate, or in violation of international human rights law.

On August 21, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman claimed that a fault in a submarine cable was disrupting internet services across Pakistan.

He expressed those remarks during a meeting of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Information Technology chaired by Syed Aminul Haque.

This was followed by Minister of State for Information Technology (IT) Shaza Fatima Khawaja's statements who denied that the government was behind the internet slowdown, saying that problems occurred "for one or two days" because of the excessive usage of Virtual Private Network (VPN).


Khawaja explained that when more users went live on the VPN, pressure grew on the internet.

"The government realises that people are angry after being affected. However, efforts are being made to ensure that people do not face any more internet problems," she said.

Internet networks have been up to 40% slower than normal since July, according to one IT association, while documents, images and voice notes have been disrupted on WhatsApp, used by tens of millions of people.

Digital rights experts believed the state was testing a firewall that disrupted the services.

IT minister's statement came a day after the business community and internet service providers alleged that the government's heightened efforts to monitor internet traffic, including a 'firewall' - had resulted in a significant nationwide slowdown of services, leading to losses to the economy.

The firewall's "inexplicable opacity and ambiguity" is sapping Pakistan's economic potential and could cost its IT sector up to $300 million, according to the Pakistan Software Houses Association, which represents IT firms.

Another IT expert said that connectivity had slowed by up to 40% over the past month.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) received a petition against nationwide internet shutdowns, with the Chief Justice seeking responses from the government and the PTA by August 26.


The petition named the Cabinet Secretary, Secretary of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Interior Secretary, Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and the Ministry of Human Rights as respondents.

It claims that the firewall's installation has significantly slowed down internet speeds, harming the digital economy, particularly affecting the youth.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Dumbest government ever, I personally know an entire project taken away from Pakistani IT company due to this stupidity of slowing the internet , can’t even imagine what freelancers are going through
 

Internet disruption likely to persist till Oct: PTA​


The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has said that the ongoing internet disruption across the country is expected to continue for another another month as the faulty submarine cable blamed for the degradation of the services would likely to be repaired by early October.

The statement came almost a week after the authority blamed the internet slowdown on fault in “two of the seven international submarine cables connecting Pakistan internationally”.

Experts and stakeholders attributed the prevailing cyber disruption to the purported testing of an internet firewall to rein in social media, which is equipped with filters to block unwanted content from reaching a wider audience.

According to a statement issued by the PTA today (Wednesday), the ongoing internet disruption was mainly due to fault in two submarine cables.

“It is updated that fault in SMW-4 submarine cable is likely to be repaired by early October 2024,” it said.

The statement added, “Whereas submarine cable AAE-1 has been repaired which may improve internet experience.”

Earlier this month, PTA Chairman Maj Gen (retd) Hafeezur Rehman admitted that upgradation of the National Firewall System (NFS) or Web Management System (WMS) was under way for controlling or removing contents from social media, following directions received from executives or courts.

He said the PC-1 for the NFS upgradation was approved in March 2019, when Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was ruling the country, as per The News report. He also said that social media messaging service X, formerly Twitter, was banned for not complying with the directives issued by the interior ministry, as there was a defined mechanism to slap a ban or remove content on social media under the law of the land.

Under the Web Management System, it is the mandate of PTA to comply with the orders of the executive or superior courts and cited examples that they removed contents related to pornography or blasphemy, the PTA chief said.

However, the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology unanimously rejected slowing down of internet or banning social media platforms. They directed the Ministry of IT to come up with exact estimates of losses faced by the IT sector, in collaboration.

Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) and IT experts have slammed the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government over the issue, citing the economic impact on freelancers, IT professionals and the digital economy in general.

With P@SHA estimating a loss of $300 million loss in light of existing complaints by the businesses and the reputational damage, WISPAP Chairman Shahzad Arshad has said that businesses and individuals who depend on reliable internet connectivity which is an essential pillar of the country’s digital economy were now "struggling to maintain operations, and the slowdown is threatening their very survival”.

However, the government has denied its involvement in the issue with State Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja blaming the use of virtual private networks (VPN) by internet users as the reason "their phones" slowed down.

"I can swear that the government of Pakistan did not block the internet or slow it down,” she said while speaking to the media last week.

www.thenews.com.pk

Internet disruption likely to persist till Oct: PTA

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has said that the ongoing internet disruption across the country is expected to continue for another another month as the faulty submarine cable...
www.thenews.com.pk www.thenews.com.pk
 
Interior ministry refuses to give clarification on mobile, internet outage during election

he Ministry of Interior has refused to give clarification on the matter pertaining to internet and mobile service outages during the February 8 general election.

The ministry stated that considering national security, information and reasons couldn’t be disclosed declaring the matter classified under Right to Information Act,

The Pakistan Information Commission has also granted exemptions to the Ministry of Information for revealing information on the matter.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) responds that the Ministry of Interior issues directives on the order of the federal government. The PTA is bound to follow and implement those directives.

Services are suspended in the wake of national security and sovereignty, the PTA claimed.


Dunya News
 
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Monday informed the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom of massive disruptions in Pakistan’s network if licenses of Long Distance International (LDI) companies are not renewed

A meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, chaired by Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, addressed the ongoing issues related to the renewal of Long Distance International (LDI) and Fixed Line Local Loop (FLL) licenses.

Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman, briefed the committee on the matter, highlighting that the issue primarily affects four companies, including Wateen, which has an extensive fiber optic infrastructure across 24 cities, primarily in Balochistan and interior Sindh.

He said Wateen is also connected to 44 banks and NADRA, making its network critical to the country’s communications infrastructure. Despite a committee being formed to resolve the license renewal issue, no resolution has been reached.

Wateen’s license expired in July 2024, but the company secured a stay order from the court, allowing it to continue operations. The Committee Chairperson said that failure to renew these licenses could lead to significant losses, he added.

Chairman PTA informed that five LDI companies were willing to pay their outstanding dues, while others have filed legal challenges. The licenses for these companies were set to expire between July and August, with around 15 cases currently pending in court. He also acknowledged that in 2020, companies were permitted to pay their dues in installments, but the same relief cannot be granted this year.
The committee discussed Rs. 54 billion exemption sought by the LDI companies. It was noted that the former IT Secretary had issued a policy directive on the matter, which was opposed by officials from the Ministry of IT (MoITT), claiming the directive exceeded the Secretary’s authority.

Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan raised concerns about the potential impact on the national network if these licenses were not renewed.

Regarding the payments required from LDI companies, the Secretary MoITT emphasized the importance of vacating stay orders to resolve the matter. The committee called for a clear policy directive from the federal government to prevent similar issues arising in the future.

The Chairperson also expressed concerns about the accountability of the former Secretary of IT, specifically questioning a letter issued in May 2024, where a policy directive was made without Cabinet approval.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
PTA clarifies VPNs not being blocked in the country

The Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA) on Tuesday dispelled rumours and clarified that virtual private networks (VPNs) in the country were not being blocked.

The use of VPNs by local internet users witnessed a significant increase in 2024. Most people have been using them to access X, formerly Twitter, which has been blocked in the country since February 19.

A report by Top10VPN, an independent VPN review website, stated that the demand for proxy networks increased by 131 per cent on Feb 19, two days after X was blocked.

Quashing media reports about PTA planning to block VPNs in the country, the authority issued a statement clarifying there was no truth to such rumours. However, it encourages users to register their internet protocol (IP) addresses for using VPNs.

“Recent news circulating in media about PTA to block VPNs, it is clarified that VPNs are not being blocked in Pakistan,” the telecommunications regulator said in a statement.

“However, PTA is encouraging all IT companies, software houses, freelancers and banks, etc, to register their IPs for using VPNs so that in case of any disruption, the internet services to these entities are not affected.”

It further said that VPN registration was a “one window operation” available at the PTA and PSEB websites, adding that the process would take two to three days, and was free of charge.

In August, the authority’s head had told a parliamentary committee that the authority was working on a plan to regulate the use of VPNs in Pakistan by whitelisting some proxy networks and blocking others.

Source: Dawn News
 
WhatsApp and Instagram users in Pakistan reported outages on Saturday, while interruptions in internet services provided by Zong and PTCL were also reported, according to outage tracking website Downdetector.

Instagram users today reported a maximum of 86 outages in one hour, with WhatsApp users reporting problems since 10:45am, particularly with sending voice notes, Downdetector said, adding that network providers Zong and PTCL have also reported outages since this morning.

A chart showing the number of Instagram outages on September 21. — Downdetector

A chart showing the number of Instagram outages on September 21. — Downdetector

Dawn.com correspondents in Karachi and Lahore also reported problems with internet service on mobile phones.

A chart showing the number of WhatsApp outages on September 21. — Downdetector

A chart showing the number of WhatsApp outages on September 21. — Downdetector

The Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has yet to comment on the reported outages.

However, in August, the PTA said that internet services across the country are expected to remain slow till “early October”, since the submarine cable responsible for the disruptions would likely be repaired by then.

“The ongoing internet slowdown across the country is mainly due to [a] fault in two (SMW4, AAE-1) of the seven international submarine cables connecting Pakistan internationally,” the PTA had said

“It is updated that [the] fault in SMW-4 submarine cable is likely to be repaired by early October 2024,” the telecom authority had added. “Submarine cable AAE-1 has been repaired which may improve internet experience.”

Source: Dawn News
 
Azma Bokhari calls for banning misuse of social media

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari on Monday called for banning misuse of social media.

Speaking to the court reporters outside the Lahore High Court (LHC), she recalled her photograph which she said, was taken in London, without her consent, adding that objectionable tweets were shared as well.

She said that firstly Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawyer Azhar Siddiqui submitted fake documents and then he had to apologise for them.

Speaking about her fake video case, she said PTI leader Falak Javed’s father blamed Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for making obscene video, adding that she would not use her governmental influence in this case as it would worsen the case.

Lashing out at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, she said the KP CM used very foul language in the public meetings but they treated him the way he deserved.


Dunya News
 
Atta Tarar reveals reason for closure of social media platform ‘X’

During an interview with Voice of America (VoA), Atta Tarar explained that Pakistan is upgrading its web management system to strengthen defenses against cyberattacks.

Addressing the ban on X during the election period, he asserted that the primary goal was to curb terrorism rather than restrict freedom of expression.

The Minister highlighted that separatists, nationalists, and terrorist groups, such as the BLA, have used X to incite violence, even giving live coverage of attacks like the one on Gwadar Port Authority.

He emphasized that the platform has been used to undermine national security, justifying the government’s intervention.

Tarar expressed hope for resolving the situation through discussions with X, aiming for a mutual understanding that addresses security concerns while maintaining communication channels.

arynews.tv

Atta Tarar reveals reason for closure of social media platform 'X'

NEW YORK: Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Atta Tarar, on Friday clarified the reasons behind the ban on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
WhatsApp has been jammed in different cities in Pakistan. Are you facing the same issue.
 
Internet users face disruption in several cities

Internet slowdown was experienced by users in various parts of Pakistan on Saturday, primarily due to overloading.

The country has already been facing low bandwidth due to the upgradation of the Web Management System, commonly referred to as an ‘internet firewall’, a senior executive of one of the cellular mobile operators said. He said the system is being upgraded to cater up to 9 terabytes internet traffic.

As PTI supporters neared Islamabad by Saturday noon, disruption in internet and social media services were reported from many parts of the country.

According to Netblocks, reports about disruption in WhatsApp services were received from Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore during the past 24 hours.

The suspension of cellular and mobile data services in the twin cities since Friday morning affected basic services like online banking, ride-hailing and food delivery services.

A senior official of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said the Punjab government had also requested the suspension of cellular services in key cities of the province, but it was declined.

“[The] cellular services have been suspended in urban areas of Rawalpindi district and Islamabad due to serious concerns of threats by the security agencies,” the PTA official added.

He said the telecom regulator suspends cellular services at the request of security agencies. The PTA “is not authorised” to ask any security agency for details or the nature of the security threat.

He said the request from the Punjab government was rejected as “there was no such threat in any city of Punjab”.

DAWN NEWS
 
Around 1,500 WhatsApp accounts compromised in Pakistan since July: interior minister

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed the Senate on Tuesday that about 1,500 WhatsApp accounts have been hacked across the country since July 1, adding that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had recovered some of the accounts while work to recover others was underway.

Even though the Meta-owned application is end-to-end encrypted, which adds an extra layer of security to communication, hackers could still target devices through unsecured connections and access private conversations.

In details provided to the Senate today, the security czar said the “FIA’s Cybercrime Wing (CCW) had received 1,426 complaints related to hacked accounts since July 1,” adding that the figure did not include users who had not yet reported their compromised accounts.

He said 549 hacked accounts were successfully restored from the registered complaints, while the CCW was currently processing a further 877 complaints, with 20 cases escalated to formal inquiries.

Naqvi said 40 complaints remained unanswered and 817 were still in the verification stage.

Last year, ex-chief justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar claimed that a complaint was filed with the CCW for recovery of his “hacked” WhatsApp account.

Sources in the FIA had said that the agency would follow the standard operating procedure on the complaint of Nisar’s son.

The sources had said that the agency received enormous complaints through its online portal and other forums, but it lacked the required staff to process all those complaints. Moreover, they had said that the FIA was not equipped with modern gadgets required to counter cybercrime.

Government officials were also warned against replying to WhatsApp messages after security agencies identified malware to gain access to important government documents.

Some hackers had attempted to gain access to mobile phones of senior bureaucrats by pretending to be government officials.

They had also tried to seek information by sending malware through WhatsApp.

A senior government official, who was privy to the hacking attempts, had told Dawn that some joint secretaries and additional secretaries in different ministries received messages from hackers impersonating their bosses and other senior officials in various departments.

In 2019, senior government officials in multiple US-allied countries, including Pakistan, were targeted with hacking software that used WhatsApp to take over users’ phones, according to people familiar with the messaging company’s investigation.

Sources familiar with WhatsApp’s internal investigation into the breach had said a “significant” portion of the known victims were high-profile government and military officials spread across at least 20 countries on five continents.

Source: Dawn News
 
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced the complete restoration of internet services nationwide, reported Express News on Thursday

According to a spokesperson for the PTA, the fault in the SMW4 submarine cable has been rectified. The issues with the SMW4 cable surfaced in June, while the AAE-1 submarine cable experienced faults in August. With the restoration of both cables, the previous shortfall of 1,750 Gbps has been resolved.

The spokesperson stated that the internet is now fully operational at complete speed and capacity across the country.

To enhance connectivity, the PEACE cable has been integrated into the system this year. In the next two years, three additional cables will be added to improve connectivity: two from Transworld International and one from PTCL.

As the world moves beyond 5G technology, Pakistan continues to struggle with 4G connectivity challenges.

Since February 17, X (formerly Twitter) has been blocked, and in recent weeks, popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Snapchat are only accessible through VPNs.

Essential services, such as downloading or sending voice notes, have been disrupted, highlighting a troubling setback in digital access.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Efforts underway to introduce 5G service in Pakistan: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that the federal government is committed to achieving the target of 25 billion US Dollars in IT exports over the next three years, hoping that Pakistan would get 5G internet service soon.

Speaking to a delegation of a private group in Islamabad on Friday, PM Shehbaz said the government is working to develop and promote the telecommunication sector. He expressed the government’s determination to achieve the target of USD 25 billion through IT exports in the next three years.

PM Shehbaz said that steps are being taken to introduce 5G internet services for faster and reliable internet services in Pakistan. He said this will also help achieve the vision of Digital Pakistan.

Describing the role of telecom sector as very important in promoting cashless and digital economy, the prime minister expressed Pakistan’s willingness to work with the group for promotion of Information Technology, digitisation and artificial intelligence.

The delegation appreciated the government’s efforts regarding economic stability in the country. It recognised that Pakistan has become an important country for investment in the IT and telecom sector.

Air chief calls on PM Shehbaz

Meanwhile, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

In the meeting, they discussed the professional matters pertaining to the Pakistan Air Force, according to a PM Office press release.

Earlier, a total of 11 expressions of interest (EOIs) were received from various reputed consulting firms through EPADS on the release of the IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications spectrum) spectrum to enhance Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services in Pakistan.

According to a statement, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) invited bids through advertisements published in national and international media and on the PPRA website.

PTA will shortlist the firms and accordingly RFP will be issued to the shortlisted consultants, said a news release.

The EOI for the consultancy on the release of the IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications spectrum) spectrum to enhance Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services in Pakistan 2024 was opened at PTA HQs on 15 July 2024.

The selected consultant will carry out stakeholder consultation and provide professional analysis and advice to the Government of Pakistan for the 5G / IMT auction process and successful completion of the auction in a transparent manner, averting collusion and ensuring competition in the auction process.

arynews.tv

Efforts underway to introduce 5G service in Pakistan: PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that the federal government is committed to achieving the target of 25 billion US Dollars in IT
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Reports emerge of nationwide VPN access ‘restrictions, throttling’

Multiple internet users in Pakistan reported on Sunday they were experiencing “restricted access” to virtual private networks (VPNs), alongside poor internet connectivity.

VPNs are widely used around the world to access content that may be inaccessible or blocked for internet users in their home country. In the case of Pakistanis, VPNs are used to access X, among other restricted websites.

In August, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was clamping down on VPN usage, aiming to prevent access to the already banned social media platform X.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said in September that X had been banned due to national security issues, not to curb freedom of expression. He added that “separatists and terrorists” were using the platform against Pakistan, which could not be allowed.

In the same month, the PTA dispelled rumours and clarified that VPNs in the country were not being blocked.

However, multiple X users in Pakistan took to the platform on Sunday and said that VPNs were being slowed down and access was being restricted.


www.dawn.com

Reports emerge of nationwide VPN access ‘restrictions, throttling’

X users say VPNs are being slowed down and access is being restricted.
www.dawn.com
 
PTA begins blocking unregistered VPNs

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started blocking unregistered virtual private networks (VPNs), according to local reports.

Such unregistered VPNs are being “temporarily blocked” until they comply with regulatory requirements.

The PTA has mandated that users must register to use VPN services, effectively eliminating free VPN options available on the internet.

The authority has claimed that unregistered VPNs pose a security risk in Pakistan, as they can potentially access private information or illegal content. The PTA’s role is to “protect user data and prevent access to unlawful material.”

Sources within the institution stated that VPN registration began in 2010, and over the past 14 years, approximately 20,500 VPNs have been registered.

Countries such as China, Russia, Iran, Turkey, and others have already blocked unregistered VPNs. Similarly, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have initiated similar measures, allowing VPNs only for business purposes.

Sources added that there were no restrictions on the use of VPNs for business purposes in Pakistan.


english.aaj.tv

PTA begins blocking unregistered VPNs

Such unregistered VPNs are being ‘temporarily blocked’ until they comply with regulatory requirements
english.aaj.tv
 
Religious affairs ministry wants PTA to block offensive content on internet

The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has asked the telecom regulator to block blasphemous content on social media.

In a letter to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the ministry said pornographic and blasphemous content was still accessible online.

The ministry has learned that Pakistan was among the countries with the highest viewership of adult content, the letter said, calling the trend “alarming”.

“It also raises serious concerns regarding the adherence to the directives of the Supreme Court and [PTA] ability to effectively enforce content regulations,” the letter added.

The ministry said the effects of PTA’s proactive measures to block adult and blasphemous content in line with Supreme Court orders were not visible.

The letter said the PTA has made “significant efforts” to block adult and blasphemous content, but “the said material is still accessible online”, which “violates our cultural and religious values”.

The ministry maintained that the widespread availability of such content undermines efforts to protect citizens, particularly young people, from exposure to harmful material.

DAWN NEWS
 

Interior ministry orders ban on unregistered VPNs, citing terrorism concerns​


The Ministry of Interior has directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to ban unauthorised Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) nationwide, citing increased misuse of these services by terrorist groups to enable violent activities and untraceable financial transactions.

In an official notice on Thursday, the ministry described VPNs as a security risk, alleging they have been used to bypass traditional surveillance measures and obscure digital footprints tied to criminal activities.

According to the ministry’s letter, various groups are exploiting VPNs to “conceal their communications,” making it challenging for security agencies to monitor potential threats effectively.

VPNs encrypt user data, masking IP addresses and browsing activity, a feature that promotes greater online privacy, as noted in an explanatory document by Microsoft.

However, the interior ministry flagged that unregulated VPNs are also being used in Pakistan to access pornographic and blasphemous content, further justifying their directive to ban such networks.

The government clarified that only illegal VPNs would be targeted under this initiative, emphasising that users of registered VPNs would remain unaffected.

A formal deadline for VPN registration with the PTA has been set for November 30, a step authorities believe will facilitate regulated and secure usage for legitimate purposes.

This crackdown follows the PTA’s September statement, where it assured that registered VPNs would remain accessible and urged relevant sectors—including IT firms, software houses, and freelance professionals—to register their IPs.

In August, the PTA initiated VPN registration under a streamlined ‘one-window’ system, accessible on both the PTA and Pakistan Software Export Board websites.

The registration drive and subsequent restrictions align with the government’s broader efforts to enhance cyber oversight, amid growing security concerns linked to encrypted digital communication channels.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Mobile internet services suspended in certain areas of Balochistan to ‘ensure public safety’, says PTA

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Friday announced that mobile internet services in certain parts of Balochistan have been suspended to “ensure public safety”.

Pakistan, particularly the Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, has witnessed a sharp uptick in terrorism-related incidents over the past year.

At least 26 people were killed and 62 injured after a suicide blast ripped through a Quetta Railway Station on November 9, local authorities and hospital officials said.

On September 26, at least two policemen were among a dozen people injured by a bomb attack, which targeted a police vehicle in Quetta.

Officials said that unidentified miscreants had parked an explosives-laden motorcycle in the Bhosa Mandi area of Eastern Bypass. When a police vehicle reached the spot, an explosion was triggered, ostensibly using a remote-controlled device.

“The general public is hereby informed that, under the directives of authorised departments, mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended in certain areas of Balochistan,” Friday’s statement said.

The statement added that the step was taken “to ensure public safety given the security situation in these areas”.

It, however, did not specify the areas where mobile internet services have been suspended or provide details on the duration of the suspension.

To ensure security within the province, the Balochistan government decided to develop a provincial action plan to significantly enhance governance and security across
the province.

Source: Dawn News
 
‘Internet services must not be disturbed on pretext of security’

While rights activists, journalists and members of the civil society on Saturday agreed that there was an urgent need to address the country’s deteriorating law and order situation, they declared that internet services must not be disturbed on the pretext of security.

Condemning the introduction of the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2024, they said the law empowers the civil and armed forces to detain individuals on mere suspicion and without civilian or judicial interference which is tantamount to legalising enforced disappearances and use of internment centres.

The Karachi Press Club (KPC) in collaboration with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), different factions of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) organised a meeting to discuss the Anti-Terrorism Act (Amendment) Bill 2024, the internet blockades, bans on X (formerly Twitter) and VPN.

Several members of the civil society travelled from Islamabad and Lahore for the meeting.

Journalist and HRCP Co-Chair Munizae Jahangir apprised the meeting that ATA (Amendment) Bill 2024 will authorise the state to detain individuals for ‘inquiry’ for up to three months merely based on ‘credible information’ or ‘reasonable suspicion’ without judicial interference on the presumption that they pose a threat to national security or public order.

“The government thinks that they won’t get any response regarding this matter from civil society as it thinks that we are a spent force now. But we, the civil society, including journalists and lawyers, must come together to protest,” she said.

Writer, poet and HRCP Secretary General Harris Khalique said that it is time to join forces with like-minded powers. “We need to hold consultative meetings with the media, unions, politicians, etc, regarding what is going on. We need to join forces,” he said.

Advocate Habib Tahir said that there is no longer any internet in many districts of Balochistan and press clubs in the province are also being closed down.

HRCP Chairman Asad Iqbal Butt said that these new laws to curb people’s voices and freedom can also be used against the political parties who may be enjoying power at the moment. “They don’t realise that their laws can turn around to bite them, too, like the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act [PECA],” he said.

Poet and columnist Nasir Zaidi said that there is also talk within the corridors of power about a Data Control Act, too.

“All these laws are being planned to control the press. We are facing the worst media onslaught,” he said. “They are also giving legal cover to enforced disappearances through law. The HRCP is against state brutality and fascism. We must fight back,” he added.

KPC President Saeed Sarbazi said that the ATA Bill and also the bans on X in Pakistan along VPN’s coming under target are serious issues.

“Now we have the Council of Islamic Ideology also calling VPN un-Islamic. It is like a tightening noose around people’s freedom, including the freedom of expression,” he said. “You already have hotels in Karachi to not allow rooms to people who have FIRs registered against them in Balochistan. Recently, a senior journalist from Quetta was not allowed room anywhere near the Thar coal plant,” he said.

Aijaz Ahmed, president of one of the factions of the KUJ, suggested drafting a letter from civil society to be sent to political party leaders.

The secretary general of PFUJ-Dastoor, A.H. Khanzada, said that when the political parties and politicians are down, they look to the media for support but this situation changes when they are back in power.

“Then they come after the media with media curbs,” he said. “The media is the biggest champion of democracy but when the politicians are in power they forget who supported them through thick and thin. They want to please media house owners then,” he pointed out.

Tahir Hasan Khan, president of another KUJ faction, said that they have always fought and will carry on their fight for press freedom.

The meeting was also attended by Ghazi Salahuddin, Mujahid Barelvi, Salima Hashmi, Nazish Attaullah, Akbar Khan, Dr Tauseef Ahmed, Lubna Nadeem, Sohail Sangi, Fouzia Kulsoom Rana, Khursheed Abbasi, Saleem Jabbar, Lubna Jerar, Aziz Sanghur, Riaz Sohail and Liaqat Kashmiri.

They were of unanimous view that in the wake of recent upsurge in militancy and significant loss of life, there was an urgent need to address the country’s deteriorating security and law and order.

However, they made it clear that internet services must not be disturbed on the pretext of security.

They said that preventive detention, as suggested in the ATA (Amendment) Bill, is not the solution as such powers are liable to be abused.

They said that the grounds do not meet the threshold for the derogation of rights under Article 4, Paragraph 1, of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. As such, the amendment is open-ended rather than referring to temporary or exceptional.

DAWN NEWS
 
Internet and mobile services to be suspended ahead of PTI protest

The federal government is reportedly planning to partially suspend internet and mobile phone services starting November 23 given Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) protest on November 24.

Sources claimed that the suspension is likely to affect Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and multiple districts in Punjab.

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is set to activate a firewall on mobile internet services from November 20, which will significantly slow down internet speeds and restrict downloads on social media apps.

Further disruptions, including a complete suspension of internet and mobile services in certain locations, are under consideration depending on the evolving situation.


www.samaa.tv

Internet and mobile services to be suspended ahead of PTI protest

Suspension likely to affect Islamabad, KP and multiple districts in Punjab
www.samaa.tv www.samaa.tv
 
WhatsApp users face disruption across Pakistan

Internet users throughout Pakistan faced significant difficulties connecting to WhatsApp on Saturday, which occurred shortly after the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) warned the government about the serious consequences of internet shutdowns and a possible ban on virtual private networks (VPNs).

Data from the outage monitoring platform, Downdetector, indicated a peak of 207 complaints within a single hour, primarily around 10 PM on Saturday. Of those affected, 67% reported challenges in sending messages, particularly media files, while 16% encountered issues receiving them.

The disruptions in the Meta-owned messaging application were most pronounced in Punjab, although Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced intermittent problems.

In Sindh, Karachi was noted to have suffered the most significant effects from the outages, according to Downdetector’s heat map.

Industry sources confirmed difficulties in sharing media files, yet the underlying cause of the issue remained unclear.

Internet service providers faced criticism from users due to the unexpected WhatsApp outage, with complaints primarily focused on the inability to share media files, although the specific reason for the disruption was not identified.

In the absence of any official communication, some users speculated that the outages were connected to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) highly publicized protest in Islamabad on Sunday.

Disruptions to WhatsApp have become a frequent occurrence in the country, particularly during significant events such as PTI protests.

Officials have consistently attributed these outages to technical difficulties or damage to submarine cables.

On X (formerly Twitter), accounts associated with the PTI initiated a campaign on Saturday, urging X owner Elon Musk, who also leads SpaceX, to make Starlink available in Pakistan.

Starlink is a satellite network created by SpaceX to provide affordable internet access to remote areas.

arynews.tv

WhatsApp users face disruption across Pakistan

KARACHI: Internet users throughout Pakistan faced significant difficulties connecting to WhatsApp on Saturday, which occurred shortly after the Pakistan
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 

PTA initiates 2nd VPN shutdown exercise​


The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the country's telecom and internet regulator, has launched a second trial aimed at blocking unregistered virtual private networks (VPNs) used to access restricted websites.

This two-day exercise is part of the PTA's efforts to regulate illegal VPN usage. The authority has set November 30 as the final deadline for VPN registration and plans to take action against unregistered VPNs starting December 1.

The PTA recently concluded its first trial run of VPN closures. It has mandated banks, embassies, IT firms, and freelancers to register their VPNs, with approximately 25,000 VPNs already registered to date.

On November 21, the PTA hosted a consultation session at its headquarters, focusing on the processes of VPN registration and facilitation.

Key stakeholders participated, including representatives from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), Pakistan Software Houses Association (PASHA), and officials from the Ministry of IT and Telecom (MoIT), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

According to a statement released after the meeting, the PTA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting legitimate VPN users while ensuring data security and uninterrupted internet access for software houses, business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, banks, embassies, and freelancers.

Participants discussed ways to improve the VPN registration process while maintaining business continuity and secure internet services. PASHA appreciated the PTA's efforts but urged the regulator to provide adequate time for VPN registration and engage in further consultations to avoid disruptions.

Speaking to the media in Islamabad, PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman noted that any decision to extend the registration deadline lies with the government.

"The PTA's role is limited to regulation and implementation. It is the government that issues directives and policies, while the PTA ensures their execution," he said.

Addressing a seminar on youth safety organized by TikTok, the chairman earlier dismissed the perception that VPNs are being outrightly banned in Pakistan.

He pointed out that many countries regulate VPN usage and that the first VPN in Pakistan was registered back in December 2010. He added that stakeholders have had 15 years to register their VPNs.

Rehman acknowledged the importance of VPNs for business purposes, adding that VPNs are regulated globally. Regarding complaints of unethical and anti-state content, he said such issues are forwarded to social media platforms with requests for swift removal.

"Ensuring the safety of children's futures is a shared responsibility. Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression but within the bounds of cultural and societal norms," he said.

Source: The Express Tribune
 
Pakistan tests secret China-like ‘firewall’ to tighten online surveillance

Pakistan’s government has deployed Chinese technology to build what some senior officials familiar with the project are calling a new, national internet “firewall” that will allow authorities to monitor online traffic and regulate the use of popular apps with greater control than before.

The project aims to upgrade the government’s web monitoring capabilities at the country’s main internet gateways, as well as at the data centres of mobile service and major internet service providers.

Senior executives from two internet service providers (ISPs) and an official from the country’s security establishment told Al Jazeera that trials of this new firewall, installed as part of Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, were responsible for a spate of complaints of poor internet connectivity in the country in recent months.

Officially, though, government officials, while acknowledging that they are tightening the country’s online monitoring structure, have denied that this is to blame for slowdowns in internet speed.

The trial of the new firewall comes at a time of heightened political tensions in Pakistan. The country’s authorities have suspended mobile internet and blocked several VPNs amid a massive protest launched by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is under arrest since August 2023 over a spate of charges. The protesters, who have arrived in Islamabad despite court orders against their agitation, are demanding Khan’s release. At least six security personnel have died in clashes with the protesters so far.


www.aljazeera.com

Pakistan tests secret China-like ‘firewall’ to tighten online surveillance

The new monitoring system could give the government unprecedented insights into citizens’ online use.
www.aljazeera.com www.aljazeera.com
 
Internet services partially resumed in Islamabad, Rawalpindi

Internet services partially resumed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf called off its protest in the federal capital following major crackdown.

Internet services were suspended in the twin cities for the last two days on the orders of the Interior Ministry following the protest.

However, the users are complaining about glitches in the services of social media apps.

Meanwhile, authorities have started removing containers from the road across the twin cities, marking a return to normalcy in Islamabad and Rawalpindi following the clearance of D-Chowk and other adjoining areas after the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest.

As per details, containers are being removed from routes in Islamabad and Rawalpindi as PTI announced the end of its protest.

In Rawalpindi, containers are being lifted from the Faizabad Flyover and Murree Road. The Faizabad Interchange, which was closed for five days, has been reopened.

The Motorway has also been opened for all types of traffic after being closed for four days.
The M1 Motorway from Islamabad to Lahore, M2 Motorway from Siakot to Lahore, M3, M4, and M5 Motorways have been opened for traffic.

Additionally, the Multan to Sukkur Motorway has also been reopened for traffic.

On the other hand, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the area between D Chowk and Khyber Plaza. He met with the personnel of law enforcement agencies and praised their bravery.

arynews.tv

Internet services partially resumed in Islamabad, Rawalpindi

ISLAMABAD: Internet services partially resumed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf called off its protest in the federal capital
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Govt dismisses internet disruptions as users report nationwide outages again

Users across the country once again reported internet disruptions on Sunday, as the government downplayed the outages, dismissing concerns about the firewall situation as “blown out of proportion.”

In recent months, users have experienced sluggish speeds, difficulty downloading media on WhatsApp, and intermittent connectivity issues.

Digital analysts say the government has been testing a “firewall” that monitors some platforms and gives the power to block content, like photos or videos of rallies shared on WhatsApp.

The country started facing internet disruption again last week after the government restricted access to mobile services in light of PTI’s final call rally.

According to Downdetector, an internet outage tracking website, several websites reported outages early today.

The tracking website received 57 reports on the outage of WhatsApp, 86 for TikTok and 161 for Instagram.

Dawn.com has reached out to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for a comment.

While speaking to Geo News today, Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja said that the situation with the firewall was “blown out of proportion and a web management system has been operating in the country for 10 years.”

“There is nothing controversial about a country working on its cyber security,” she said, adding that the entire world used different cyber security mechanisms.

She said that the security paradigm of the world was shifting towards information and technology (IT) similar to the economic paradigm.

Fatima said that given Pakistan faced “millions of cyber attacks” daily, it was getting increasingly difficult to detect terrorist activity in the country.

“More than 100 soldiers have embraced martyrdom in the past month,” she said, adding that wherever the security of the state was concerned, the Ministry of Interior issued the directives.

Separately. the government has also decided to restrict access to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) — used to access content that may be inaccessible or blocked for internet users in their home country — in the future to curb access.

The interior ministry, earlier this month, asked the PTA to block “illegal VPNs”, citing their use by terrorists to “facilitate violent activities” and to “access pornographic and blasphemous content”.

Consequently, PTA Chairman Retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman told the Senate standing committee on IT that all non-registered VPNs would stop working in the country after the Nov 30 deadline for their registration.

However, Rehman, while speaking to Dawn.com yesterday, confirmed that the government had approved the extension of the deadline beyond November 30.

Platforms operating at 100pc

In response to the closure of the X platform, which has been blocked in the country since February, the minister said that “approximately two per cent of people in Pakistan used the platform.”

“If the decision was to curtail the freedom of expression, then social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, used by the majority, would have been shut down, she said.

“All your platforms are operating at 100pc,” the minister said.

“As far as X is concerned, the Ministry of Interior has issued a directive to PTA due to which X was not working,” she said.

She said that the decision of the government to continue using the platform was based on maintaining diplomatic relationships with foreign countries.

Government to revamp internet infrastructure

The minister vowed to revamp the country’s internet infrastructure by restoring optimal speeds and strengthening the telecom sector.

“My ministry is leaving no stone unturned to ensure seamless continuity in the industry. The recent surge in cyber attacks has put us on high alert and we are taking swift and decisive action to address these challenges and fortify our digital defences,” she said.

Fatima also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protect the IT and telecom industry, citing it as a top priority.

“To achieve this goal, the government is upgrading existing systems and focusing on key areas, including enhancing tower intensity, broadening broadband internet access and tackling pressing cybersecurity concerns to provide better coverage, boost economic growth and ensure a secure online environment for citizens.”

She acknowledged that challenges existed, but assured that the government was “diligently working” to address them.

Responding to another query, the minister stated that the government was currently upgrading its web management system, with a focus on enhancing cybersecurity measures to effectively counter and control cyber attacks and terrorist activities.

She also announced that the government planned to expand 4G and 5G internet services across Pakistan by April 2025.

www.dawn.com

Govt dismisses internet disruptions as users report nationwide outages again

IT minister says social media platforms operating at 100pc; says govt using X platform to maintain "diplomatic relationships with foreign countries".
www.dawn.com
 
Internet woes persist in parts of country including Karachi

Internet users in various cities across the country, especially in Karachi, continue to grapple with significant internet connectivity issues, resulting in difficulties with browsing, as well as downloading and sharing media.

Reports indicate that both WiFi and mobile data services are experiencing severe slowdowns, making it nearly impossible for users to send or receive media files, such as images, videos, and voice notes on popular platforms like WhatsApp.

These internet issues were confirmed by Downdetector.com which showed WhatsApp outages spiking at around 9am today (Monday), for the second day.

Notable hard hit areas of the port city include Saddar, Liaquatabad, FB Area, and Gulistan-e-Jauhar, where users lamented extended delays in transmitting audio, video and image files.

Additionally, complaints of inadequate internet speeds continue to pour in from various neighbourhoods, with many residents expressing frustration over intermittent services.

This disruption is particularly alarming for those working from home, freelancers, digital marketers, and students attending online classes, all of whom depend on reliable internet access.

Furthermore, IT experts say that due to the extremely poor state of the internet in Pakistan, the country's economy is losing billions of rupees on a daily basis.

Internet disruptions are not unusual in Pakistan, as the country has been facing sporadic outages and access hindrances for months, now for various reasons.

Last week, internet and mobile services were disrupted in the wake of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) "do-or-die" protest in Islamabad.

Furthermore, the incumbent government has carried out multiple tests of its internet firewall, with the first and second trials conducted in July and August, respectively.

On both occasions, the trials slowed down internet speeds and disrupted digital platforms.

However, it is pertinent to mention that no specific reason has come to light for today's slowed internet speed.

In a conversation regarding the state of virtual private networks (VPN) in Pakistan in Geo News' programme 'Geo Pakistan', Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (Wispap) Chairman Shahzad Arshad highlighted that the VPNs were "a need of (internet) users".

He said that he had requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to extend the registration time for VPNs while emphasising that there were problems with internet speed that did not seem to be resolved.

"ISPs do not have any solution to the low speed of the internet yet," said Arshad, reiterating people's complaints about social media apps not working properly for the past few days.

www.geo.tv

Internet woes persist in parts of country including Karachi

WiFi, mobile data services experience severe slowdowns, say reports.Internet users lament extended delays in transmitting media files.Downdetector.com confirms second day of spike in WhatsApp outages.KARACHI: Internet users in...
www.geo.tv www.geo.tv
 
There is a bloomberg report on youtube on how Pakistan is seeing the biggest brain drain of educated citizens some of whom had returned during Imran era.
Internet is literally a basic thing nowadays, even the sabziwala in Dehradoon has it for digital payments.

The repercussions of Internet issues in last 2 years will be felt severely by Pakistan for next 20 years absolute duds.
 
Cricket Warrior said:
Pakistan tests secret China-like ‘firewall’ to tighten online surveillance

Pakistan’s government has deployed Chinese technology to build what some senior officials familiar with the project are calling a new, national internet “firewall” that will allow authorities to monitor online traffic and regulate the use of popular apps with greater control than before.

The project aims to upgrade the government’s web monitoring capabilities at the country’s main internet gateways, as well as at the data centres of mobile service and major internet service providers.

Senior executives from two internet service providers (ISPs) and an official from the country’s security establishment told Al Jazeera that trials of this new firewall, installed as part of Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, were responsible for a spate of complaints of poor internet connectivity in the country in recent months.

Officially, though, government officials, while acknowledging that they are tightening the country’s online monitoring structure, have denied that this is to blame for slowdowns in internet speed.

The trial of the new firewall comes at a time of heightened political tensions in Pakistan. The country’s authorities have suspended mobile internet and blocked several VPNs amid a massive protest launched by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is under arrest since August 2023 over a spate of charges. The protesters, who have arrived in Islamabad despite court orders against their agitation, are demanding Khan’s release. At least six security personnel have died in clashes with the protesters so far.


www.aljazeera.com

Pakistan tests secret China-like ‘firewall’ to tighten online surveillance

The new monitoring system could give the government unprecedented insights into citizens’ online use.
www.aljazeera.com www.aljazeera.com
Click to expand...

This does not sound healthy at all.
Being friends with China, and a military dictatorship, this was always on the cards however.
 
Social media misinformation to be tackled by new law

The Government of Pakistan has decided to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to tackle the spread of false information and fearmongering on social media, with penalties including imprisonment and fines, ARY News reported.

According to reports, any content that targets national institutions or individuals, or spreads fear, will be removed in Pakistan. A draft proposal suggests the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have the authority to block or remove social media content.

As per the new amendment to PECA, the DRPA authority will have the power to issue orders to remove content targeting law enforcement agencies or individuals. It will also be responsible for removing content that spreads hatred against the state of Pakistan and its institutions.

Those deliberately spreading false information, fear, and insecurity will face fines, with penalties including up to 5 years in prison, a fine of up to Rs 1 million, or both.

The DRPA authority will also be empowered to remove content against Pakistan’s armed forces and judiciary, as well as content promoting religious, sectarian, or racial hatred, threats, false accusations, pornography, and terrorism or violence.

The authority will be headed by a chairman and include six members, and its decisions can be appealed through a tribunal.


arynews.tv

Social media misinformation to be tackled by new law

ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has decided to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to tackle the spread of false information and
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings

Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings, according to a report by the World Population Review.

According to the report, Pakistan ranks below Palestine, Bhutan, Ghana, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, and Libya in internet speed.

The average mobile internet download speed in Pakistan is 19.59 Mbps, while broadband internet averages 15.52 Mbps.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) leads globally in both mobile and broadband internet speed, followed by Singapore in mobile internet and Qatar in broadband speed.

Hong Kong and Chile rank third and fourth in mobile internet speed, respectively.

The report anticipates improvements in internet speed with advancements in technology.

Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), Sajjad Mustafa Syed, has stated that the current internet speed issues are expected to be resolved within a three-month timeframe, amidst concerns that the implementation of a firewall may cause connectivity problems.

He remarked, “If a message is being sent via WhatsApp but images are not transmitting, it may indicate that monitoring is taking place.”

Users in various regions of Pakistan are experiencing intermittent internet outages and reduced speeds, which hinder their ability to browse, download, and share media effectively.

Reports suggest that both Wi-Fi and mobile data services are suffering from significant slowdowns, rendering it extremely difficult for users to send or receive media files, including images, videos, and voice notes on widely used platforms like WhatsApp.

arynews.tv

Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings, according to a report by the World Population Review. According to the report,
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
FearlessRoar said:
Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings

Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings, according to a report by the World Population Review.

According to the report, Pakistan ranks below Palestine, Bhutan, Ghana, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, and Libya in internet speed.

The average mobile internet download speed in Pakistan is 19.59 Mbps, while broadband internet averages 15.52 Mbps.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) leads globally in both mobile and broadband internet speed, followed by Singapore in mobile internet and Qatar in broadband speed.

Hong Kong and Chile rank third and fourth in mobile internet speed, respectively.

The report anticipates improvements in internet speed with advancements in technology.

Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), Sajjad Mustafa Syed, has stated that the current internet speed issues are expected to be resolved within a three-month timeframe, amidst concerns that the implementation of a firewall may cause connectivity problems.

He remarked, “If a message is being sent via WhatsApp but images are not transmitting, it may indicate that monitoring is taking place.”

Users in various regions of Pakistan are experiencing intermittent internet outages and reduced speeds, which hinder their ability to browse, download, and share media effectively.

Reports suggest that both Wi-Fi and mobile data services are suffering from significant slowdowns, rendering it extremely difficult for users to send or receive media files, including images, videos, and voice notes on widely used platforms like WhatsApp.

arynews.tv

Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings, according to a report by the World Population Review. According to the report,
arynews.tv arynews.tv
Click to expand...

Which report is this and is there any link it to verify the claim?

What is Bharat’s rank in that list
 
IHC to hear plea against X ban in Pakistan on Feb 6, 2025

The petition challenging the ban on the social media app X will be heard by Chief Justice Aamir Farooq in the Islamabad High Court on February 6, 2025.

The petition, which was last heard on April 17, 2024, has faced several delays. Initially scheduled for hearings on May 2 and June 11, 2024, the case could not proceed on those dates.

A miscellaneous application for an early hearing was accepted by the court on November 22, 2024. Following this, Chief Justice Aamir Farooq directed that the case be scheduled after the winter vacations, with the Registrar Office confirming the hearing date for February 6, 2025.

Earlier, the Senate's Standing Committee on IT and Telecom, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, convened on December 5 to discuss key issues concerning the industry.

During the meeting, Pasha Chairman Sajjad Mustafa Syed expressed strong reservations about the government's VPN policy, highlighting the adverse impact on the IT sector.

"An hour of internet downtime results in a loss of $910,000 for the IT industry," he stated, stressing the critical nature of reliable internet access for the sector's growth.

Senator Palwisha Khan raised concerns over the actions of the Ministry of IT, criticizing the tendency to shift responsibility to the Ministry of Interior. "I don’t understand why we even have a Ministry of IT if this is how things are managed," she remarked.

Secretary of IT, while addressing the committee, assured that efforts are underway to balance national security concerns with minimal disruption to the IT industry.

"We are striving to meet national security requirements while ensuring the least impact on the IT sector," he added.

The discussion highlighted the need for a more strategic approach to policy-making, ensuring both national security and the thriving growth of Pakistan's IT industry.

SAMAA
 
FIA arrests multiple social media activists across Pakistan

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has initiated a large-scale operation against social media activists involved in spreading fake propaganda across the country, ARY News reported.

According to reports, this operation, led by the FIA Cybercrime Wing, has resulted in multiple arrests and the registration of numerous FIRs in various regions.

According to FIA officials, the Cybercrime Wing in Punjab has arrested 26 individuals and registered 66 FIRs across districts, including Lahore. Islamabad’s Cybercrime Wing has also been active, registering 51 FIRs in its jurisdiction.

In Multan, FIA operations led to the arrest of 14 individuals and the registration of over 30 cases. Meanwhile, Karachi saw 16 FIRs registered, Sukkur recorded four, and Hyderabad registered five cases. FIA Quetta reported the registration of three FIRs during the ongoing operation.

Overall, the FIA has arrested 30 social media activists across the country for their involvement in propagating fake news and inciting propaganda.

Officials emphasised the importance of combating misinformation to maintain national harmony and order.


arynews.tv

FIA arrests multiple social media activists across Pakistan

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has initiated a large-scale operation against social media activists involved in spreading fake propaganda across
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Mobile internet speed records 28% increase in Pakistan, claims PTA

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said that Pakistan has seen a significant boost in mobile internet speed, with a 28 percent (pc) increase recorded over the past year, ARY News reported on Monday.

Refuting all the reports of internet slowdown in Pakistan, the state telecommunication regulator PTA, in a statement, said the mobile phone internet speed in the country increased by 28pc.

It said that the mobile internet speed has risen to 20.02 Megabits per second (Mbps) from 15.65 Mbps in the previous year. adding that “this improvement is accompanied by a 24.2pc surge in mobile internet usage”.

PTA said that the number of broadband subscribers reached 142.3 million while telecom subscribers stood at 196 million as of September 2024.

“The telecom sector generated substantial revenue, recording Rs955 billion in the last fiscal year, with 29.6 million mobile devices manufactured locally during the same period”, the statement added.

Earlier, A report by the World Population Review said that Pakistan ranks 198th globally in internet speed rankings.

According to the report, Pakistan ranks below Palestine, Bhutan, Ghana, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, and Libya in internet speed.

The average mobile internet download speed in Pakistan is 19.59 Mbps, while broadband internet averages 15.52 Mbps.


arynews.tv

Mobile internet speed records 28% increase in Pakistan, claims PTA

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said that Pakistan has seen a significant boost in mobile internet speed, with a 28 percent (pc)
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Internet issues due to security concerns: govt

The government on Monday tacitly acknowledged on the floor of the National Assembly that it was behind the ongoing internet disruptions and monitoring of social media platforms, citing prevailing security concerns.

"Pakistan is facing great security threats, so we have to adopt some kind of a strategy. We cannot leave it [social media] unbridled like other countries,” Parliamentary Secretary for Cabinet Secretariat Sajid Mehdi said, while responding to criticism from the opposition over slow internet speeds and alleged curbs on social media.

The issue came under discussion when the house took up a calling attention notice moved by Aliya Kamran of the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) “regarding slow internet speed in the country”.

Mr Mehdi said it was because of “security reasons” that they were seeking to regulate the use of VPNs [Virtual Private Networks], informing the house that they had already regularised 37,000 users.

The parliamentary secretary was responding to the issue in the absence of State Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who later arrived in the hall only to introduce the Digital Nation Pakistan Bill 2024.

The secretary, however, said that sluggish internet speeds were due to the lack of “advanced technology” available to the country. He hastened to add that internet speeds were “not as slow” as was being claimed, and without offering an explanation, claimed that this sometimes happened due to “congestion, theft and loadshedding”.

Mr Mehdi said in Pakistan they had only 15 per cent fibre cable whereas India had 40 per cent of its network on fibre cable.

He claimed these would be resolved after the 5G spectrum auction by April next year, adding that he was making this announcement on the basis of a statement of the state minister that he had seen on a TV channel.

Raising the issue, Ms Kamran had declared that the rulers were afraid of the internet and they always made attempts to control it. She accused the government of destroying the IT industry by “trying to control [social media] through registration of VPNs and installation of a digital firewall”.

She also questioned the move to register VPN users in absence of any such law and rules, saying that the parliamentary secretary had admitted that they were controlling the social media through the process of VPNs registration.

The JUI-F MNA then referred to a recently released global index report about internet speed, according to which Pakistan stood at 141 among 158 countries. She mocked the parliamentary secretary’s claim, stating that in a country where people were not able to use 3G and 4G internet connections, the government was talking about the auction of 5G licences.

Taking the floor, Leader of the Opposition Omar Ayub Khan alleged that the government wanted to block people’s access to social media due to the popularity of PTI and its founding chairman Imran Khan.

He said a number of people had relocated their businesses and many of them had already lost their jobs in the prevailing internet situation due to the blockade of VPNs in the country.

The opposition leader then asked deputy speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah to take notice of the “perjury” committed by senior officials of the IT ministry and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) when they made a statement before the standing committee that the slow internet speed was because of a fault in an undersea cable.

“The internet speed in Pakistan is not slow because of 5G or undersea cable. The internet speed is slow because of the direct interference of intelligence agencies in affairs of the PTA,” he said, adding that it seemed that efforts were being made to bring a ‘model on the lines of North Korea or defunct Soviet Union’ to Pakistan.

www.dawn.com

Internet issues due to security concerns: govt

Parliamentary secretary blames net speed problems on "congestion, theft and loadshedding", claims they will be resolved after 5G auction.
www.dawn.com
 
HalBass9 said:
What does it mean? Why are you willfully ignoring the domestic dynamics within Pakistani politics?
Click to expand...
Because peace is rationalism, the thought that Pakistani Establishment is peaceful towards it’s neighbours but not towards is people is flawed.
 
JaDed said:
Because peace is rationalism, the thought that Pakistani Establishment is peaceful towards it’s neighbours but not towards is people is flawed.
Click to expand...

2 different reasons for 2 different outcomes.
 
PPP criticises govt over internet outage, firewall installation

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) MNA Abdul Qadir Patel expressed concern over the internet speed in Pakistan and questioned the authorities about the type of firewall being used that is hindering internet access.

Addressing the National Assembly, Abdul Qadir Patel said that the internet outage has severely impacted the daily lives of citizens, especially businesses and children’s education.

He urged the authorities to resolve the issue promptly.

The PPP MNA asked the concerned authorities to take every possible measure to normalise the situation at the earliest

“When will the internet start operating at full speed? Whether it’s X, Y, or Z, tell me when the problem will be resolved,” Abdul Qadir Patel asked.

Earlier in the day, State Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja clarified that the decision to restrict social media platform X (Twitter) was made by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) under the directives of the Ministry of Interior.

“PTA is an autonomous body responsible for regulations,” said Shaza Fatima while responding to queries about slow internet and restrictions on X in the National Assembly.

The minister rejected the impression of relating X restrictions to freedom of expression, adding that only 2% of Pakistan’s population uses X, making the impact minimal.

Shaza Fatima Khawaja said according to PTA report, internet speed has improved by 28% since last year, and mobile internet users have grown by 24%.

Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), Sajjad Mustafa Syed, had stated that the current internet speed issues are expected to be resolved within a three-month timeframe, amidst concerns that the implementation of a firewall may cause connectivity problems.

He remarked, “If a message is being sent via WhatsApp but images are not transmitting, it may indicate that monitoring is taking place.”

Users in various regions of Pakistan are experiencing intermittent internet outages and reduced speeds, which hinder their ability to browse, download, and share media effectively.

arynews.tv

PPP criticises govt over internet outage, firewall installation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) MNA Abdul Qadir Patel expressed concern over the internet speed in Pakistan and questioned the authorities about
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Restrictions on X causing minimal impact as less than 2% Pakistanis use it, claims IT minister

State Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja Wednesday clarified that the decision to restrict social media platform X (Twitter) was made by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) under the directives of the Ministry of Interior, ARY News reported.

“PTA is an autonomous body responsible for regulations,” said Shaza Fatima while responding to queries about slow internet and restrictions on X in the National Assembly.

The minister rejected the impression of relating X restrictions to freedom of expression, adding that only 2% of Pakistan’s population uses X, making the impact minimal.

Shaza Fatima Khawaja said according to PTA report, internet speed has improved by 28% since last year, and mobile internet users have grown by 24%.

November saw a 25% growth in IT exports, with fibre optic infrastructure being the primary focus for future expansion.

The minister acknowledged the challenges posed by the recent high-security environment during the SCO summit but assured that immediate steps were taken to minimize disruptions. “Our response was swift, with teams working overnight to address connectivity issues,” she stated.


arynews.tv

Restrictions on X causing minimal impact as less than 2% Pakistanis use it, claims IT minister

ISLAMABAD: State Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja Wednesday clarified that the decision to restrict social media platform X (Twitter) was made by the
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
Preparations begin for linking country to new undersea internet cable system

While Pakistan on Tuesday technically disconnected SMW-3 undersea cable, the oldest submarine internet network, at the same time it linked its nodes with the landing station of the new Africa-2 cable network.

The new system will be online by the end of next year.

The SMW (South Asia-Middle East-West Asia) cable network, the oldest as well as longest in the world, was commissioned in September 1999. It runs a total length of 39,000 kilometres.

Pakistan has now started preparations for getting connected to the new 45,000km cable system, AAE-2 (Africa, Asia and Europe). It will cover 33 countries in three continents.

A press release from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) hailed the new internet link as a “significant stride in enhancing international connectivity”. It praised the Transworld Associates (TWA), the landing partner of Africa-2 submarine cable, for bringing the new facility to Pakistan.

According to the PTA, the AAE-2 utilises SDM1 technology, which has a capacity of 180 terabytes per second (tbps). The TWA has purchased one tbps for Pakistan.

The AAE-2 is owned by a consortium of eight companies, including Meta and Vodafone, and it is set to go live after about nine months.

The PTA said in its statement that the AAE-2 would land at Hawksbay, Karachi, and Phase-I of the project involving Pre-Lay Shore End (PLSE) installation began on Dec 1. The second phase, which includes connecting the cable from Hawkesbay with the main AAE-2 in the deep sea, will start in April next year.

Apart from AAE-2, the Trans World Associates operates SMW-5 (South-East Asia-Middle East-Western Europe-5) and the TransWorld Associates (TWA-1). The last named is a Karachi–UAE-Oman cable connecting the local internet system with international hubs in the Gulf countries. The other two companies operating international internet cables in this country are Pakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd (PTCL) and Cyber Internet Services.

The PTCL manages AAE-1, SMW-4 and IMEWE (India-Middle East-Western Europe) connections.

The SMW-4 and IMEWE have landing stations at Hawksbay beach while the AAE-1 lands at Karachi’s Clifton beach.

PTCL has retired the SMW3.

Cyber Internet Services operates the PEACE cable, which originates in China and ends its land route at Karachi’s Misri Shah area, near Defence Society. It enters the sea on its way to Europe.

The PEACE cable provides 600 gigabytes per second (Gbps) internet facility to Pakistan. One terabyte contains 1,000 gigabytes.

The total capacity of six internet cable systems in the country stands at 13tbps and the consumption ranges between seven and eight terabytes per second.

A senior PTA official said an excess capacity of 30 to 40 per cent has to be maintained for internet cables so that the load can be shifted to the unutilised connection in case an undersea cable is damaged in an accident.

“With the addition of AAE-2 by the end of 2025, the internet capacity in Pakistan will increase to 14tbps, but at the same time consumption is rising,” the official added.

DAWN NEWS
 
Balochistan Assembly calls for internet restoration in Panjgur

National Party MPA Rahmat Saleh Baloch tabled the resolution in the provincial assembly which stated that Panjgur has been facing an internet shutdown for more than three years.

The resolution said that the internet and 4G services had been disconnected in the area, causing severe difficulties for citizens especially students are being affected most.

MPA Rahmat Saleh Baloch stressed that residents and businesses are unable to perform their regular work even needy persons cannot register themselves for Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP).

The resolution urged the authorities to restore the internet and 4G services in Panjgur.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident yesterday, hundreds of landline phones went dead in Balochistan when unknown miscreants cut off the main cable of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd (PTCL).

The incident occurred in the Sordo area of Panjgur where miscreants cut-off the main cable of PTCL resulting in the suspension of telephone connections across the larger area.

According to reports hundreds of households and business affected by the incident, facing a severe inconvenience due to the failure of telephone network.

Upon being informed, PTCL teams reached the spot and started the maintenance work to restore the landline connections.

The provincial government has also imposed section 144 in Balochistan, to prevent the blockages of highways after several main roads were blocked by protesters in recent days.

arynews.tv

Balochistan Assembly calls for internet restoration in Panjgur

QUETTA: Balochistan Assembly passed a resolution demanding the restoration of internet service in Panjgur district, ARY News reported on Thursday.
arynews.tv arynews.tv
 
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