Wispap requests extension in deadline for VPN registration to boost compliance

• Statement highlights security risks of unregistered VPN servers.
• Wispap encourages its members, public for VPN registration.
• Association urges open communication for any further support.

KARACHI: The Ministry of Interior has been approached by the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (Wispap), seeking an extension in the deadline for registration of the Virtual Private Network (VPN), an encrypted internet network, The News reported.

Wispap Chairman Shahzad Arshad wrote a letter to the interior ministry on Friday, wherein he advised that extending the last date for registration would allow the IT sector a chance to spread awareness about the importance of VPN registration and its procedure among users.

The service providers and IT-related associations will also get an opportunity to collaborate with consumers to streamline the registration process and build trust with those hesitating by relaying them the benefits of security compliance, it said.

The statement also highlighted the increasing security risks posed by unregistered VPN servers. Wispap acknowledged the government’s proactive stance in addressing this issue, noting that malicious actors have exploited unregistered VPN connections to redirect unsuspecting users to rogue servers, putting their sensitive data at risk.

The government’s push for registration, Wispap argued, is a critical step in safeguarding citizens from such vulnerabilities.

The association emphasised that the new framework has significantly eased the registration procedure, which has been particularly beneficial for freelancers and small businesses. Wispap noted that these changes have already reduced the hesitancy surrounding the provision of sensitive information, an issue that was previously a barrier under the former system.

Wispap further encouraged its members and the public to prioritise VPN registration, framing it as both a legitimate and secure method for using VPN services. The organisation added that this move aligns with the collective aim of ensuring a safe digital environment while fostering trust between users and regulatory authorities.

Wispap concluded by reiterating its commitment to working alongside the Ministry of Interior and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to overcome any challenges related to the registration process. The association also encouraged open communication for any further support or discussions on the matter.