Pakistan urged to block free VPNs for stronger digital security

Free and unregistered VPNs have emerged as significant cybersecurity risks.

Officials explained that only licensed and security-cleared VPN services should be allowed in the country to protect public safety and national cyber defense. At the center of the concern is the growing misuse of free and unsafe VPNs. These services often track user activity, secretly store personal data, and share it with third parties. Because they lack proper monitoring, such VPNs are frequently exploited by hackers, online scammers, and anti-state networks. As a result, they pose a serious threat to national cybersecurity and increase the risk of malware attacks on citizens.

Authorities added that unregistered VPNs make it difficult to trace criminal online activity and weaken the overall digital security framework. Therefore, they have emphasized the need for PTA to strictly enforce the use of only registered and verified VPNs. Under the proposed measures, the government would block all IPs belonging to free or unregistered VPN services.

Officials warned that users who continue to access banned VPNs may face penalties, temporary service suspension, or even investigation. Businesses relying on unregistered VPNs also risk legal action, fines, and possible disruption of operations. In contrast, licensed and compliant VPNs help protect financial data, sensitive communication, and national interests.

In addition, authorities noted that several regional countries, including India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bangladesh, already regulate or restrict unauthorized VPNs as part of their national-security policies. They believe Pakistan must adopt a similar approach to strengthen its cyber defense and safeguard citizens from growing online threats.