Pakistan: Users accuse the government of internet surveillance as it introduces a Monitoring System to block specific content
Karachi [Pakistan], August 31: The Pakistan National Assembly was informed on Friday that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a Web Monitoring System (WMS) aimed at regulating internet content by blocking apps and websites that do not meet legal standards, according to Dawn News.
This announcement came in response to an inquiry from Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPP) MNA Shahida Rehman regarding the state of internet services in Pakistan.
Recently, users nationwide have experienced significant declines in internet speed, facing challenges with sending or downloading media files and voice notes via WhatsApp, especially on mobile data. Broadband connections have also seen slower browsing speeds.
Concerns have been raised by the business community and internet service providers (ISPs), who allege that government measures to monitor internet traffic, including a new "firewall," are causing the digital slowdown. They claim these measures have led to economic losses due to decreased efficiency in digital services.
However, the Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has denied that the government is intentionally "throttling" internet speeds, as reported by Dawn News. She stated that while the government is enhancing its "web management system" to tackle cybersecurity threats, there is no deliberate attempt to reduce internet speeds.
The PTA also addressed these concerns, attributing the recent slowdown to a malfunctioning submarine cable rather than the new firewall. Nevertheless, it was confirmed in a recent National Assembly report that the WMS has been put in place for content management.
According to the response, the PTA has blocked 2,369 URLs and 183 mobile apps for exposing personal data or identity information. The statement also noted that, despite geo-blocking at the gateway level, unlawful content can still be accessed using virtual private networks (VPNs).
The PTA acknowledged the difficulties in enforcing the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, particularly regarding VPN misuse. In response to complaints, the PTA has blocked a total of 469 mobile applications, underscoring its commitment to managing internet content in Pakistan, as reported by Dawn.
As the government extends its digital oversight, the effect on internet speed and accessibility remains a debated issue. While authorities stress the importance of cybersecurity, there are ongoing concerns about its impact on digital freedom and economic activity.