Pakistan's VPN Services Disrupted Due to Technical Glitch

Pakistan recently experienced a brief disruption in Virtual Private Network (VPN) services on Sunday due to a technical issue, impacting users on both fixed broadband and mobile data networks. According to industry sources, the interruption lasted between 30 minutes to an hour.

The disruption was confirmed by Down Detector, which monitors internet outages, with numerous users reporting connectivity issues on platforms like VPN Unlimited and Tunnel Bear. This incident also affected registered enterprises with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

Common causes of VPN connection issues include:

• Incorrect Login Details: Entering incorrect credentials can prevent a successful connection.
• Firewall Interference: Firewalls may block VPN traffic, leading to connectivity problems.
• Network Issues: Unstable internet or network settings can disrupt VPN access.
• Server Congestion: High server traffic may cause frequent disconnections.
• Location-Based Restrictions: Certain countries impose limits or bans on VPN usage.

Digital rights advocates expressed concern, noting that such sudden disruptions impact daily routines and work. The incident aligns with broader government efforts to control VPN use, which could affect businesses, especially those in finance and technology sectors.

Since 2020, the PTA has registered over 20,000 VPNs and IP addresses to ensure uninterrupted service. However, digital activists are calling for transparency and long-term solutions to prevent future disruptions.