Unregistered VPNs Declared Major Threat to National Security

ISLAMABAD: Authorities have warned that unregistered VPNs have become a serious threat to Pakistan’s national security, as terrorists, foreign agents, criminals, and extremist groups increasingly use illegal VPNs to hide their digital footprint.

Officials say that unregistered VPNs are being used for planning attacks, spreading rumors, running propaganda, and conducting illegal online activities—putting every citizen at risk.

Citizens have been urged not to use unregistered VPNs for their own safety and the country’s security. Only PTA-approved and registered VPNs should be used.

According to security officials, free and unregistered VPNs often steal users’ data. Most free VPNs are unsafe: they treat users as a product, sell their information, and are frequently controlled by hackers, foreign entities, or criminal networks.

Usernames, passwords, banking details, and personal information can be logged and misused. These free services operate at the cost of users’ privacy, effectively acting as “silent thieves” stealing identities.

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Authorities stress that only licensed and approved VPNs should be used. Illegal VPNs are causing major financial losses to the country by bypassing legal gateways. Billions of rupees in taxes and fees are being routed abroad, resulting in a loss to the national exchequer and reduced funds for public services.

Illegal VPN usage is also overloading internet networks, slowing down national internet speeds, and affecting both households and businesses.

Officials warn that while some people use VPNs to speed up their connection, they end up slowing down the entire country’s internet infrastructure. Unregistered VPNs pose a risk not only to individuals but also to Pakistan as a whole.

The message concludes: Use legal VPNs, stay safe, and help protect your country.