PTA Outlines Purpose and Process of Cybersecurity Audit

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Advances VPN Whitelisting Process

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has continued its VPN whitelisting initiative, registering a total of 20,437 VPN service providers to date. As part of this process, 1,286 VPN companies have successfully registered 19,840 VPNs in Pakistan.

Additionally, freelancers have started registering their VPNs, with 136 individuals registering a total of 180 VPNs. The Software Houses Association (P@SHA) has contributed by registering 417 VPNs. In total, 1,422 companies have now registered their VPNs with the PTA.

PTA Urges Fast VPN Policy Due to Network Issues

The government has indicated that the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) will be implemented to address the illegal use of VPNs once registration and whitelisting processes are complete. The PTA has been overseeing VPN registration and whitelisting since 2010.

In related actions, the PTA has blocked 469 mobile applications to date. This list includes 435 Android apps and 34 Apple apps. The applications were removed due to their content being deemed anti-Islamic, immoral, or fraudulent.

PTA Clarifies Objectives of Annual Cybersecurity Audit

Officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have provided clarification on the purpose of their annual cybersecurity audit. The audit is a crucial part of ensuring the long-term sustainability of telecom infrastructure and enhancing consumer cybersecurity.

According to the PTA, the cybersecurity audit is conducted annually in compliance with the Cybersecurity Regulations of 2002. The primary goal of this audit is to assess and fortify the resilience of telecom infrastructure while safeguarding consumer data.

PTA Intensifies Digital Regulation with New Web Management System

The PTA emphasizes that the audit is performed by independent third-party auditors. This approach is designed to uphold transparency and align with international standards, ensuring that the process is impartial and rigorous. Importantly, the audit does not involve assessments of licensed employees, focusing instead on the broader infrastructure and cybersecurity measures.

The PTA reaffirms its commitment to providing a secure digital environment for users and reinforcing the security of the telecommunications sector. The audit is a key component in maintaining robust cybersecurity practices and protecting consumers in an increasingly digital world.

Follow us on our social media platforms here: Twitter  WHATSAPP CHANNEL FACEBOOK PAGE