ISLAMABAD: As users continue to experience intermittent disruptions in internet connectivity, State Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja denied the government’s involvement in the recent blockade and slowdown across the Pakistan.
Acknowledging the public outcry over the ongoing issue, she stated, “I can swear that the government of Pakistan did not block or slow down the internet.”
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad today, Khawaja instead attributed the issue to the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) by internet users.
She added that because some applications were not downloading, people used VPNs. “Turning on a VPN slows down the phone.”
The minister said that the government consulted with experts and worked around the clock to understand the situation.
The minister’s statement follows reports of millions across the country struggling to access internet services due to limited connectivity, especially when using mobile data in some regions.
Several experts, including the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), attributed the phenomenon to increased security and surveillance due to the installation of a firewall aimed at preventing unwanted content from reaching a wider audience.
Earlier this week, Khawaja defended the decision to enforce an internet firewall, describing it as a cybersecurity measure “that every country in the world implements.”
“Consider the cybersecurity attacks occurring both in the country and globally. With the evolution of cybersecurity threats, states need improved capabilities to effectively address these threats,” she said on Thursday.
The minister maintained that she is in contact with IT authorities about internet issues. “There will also be a meeting on the internet issue next week.”
She further informed that the government will auction the 5G spectrum in the country next year, while four more international internet cables will be brought to Pakistan.
Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima said that we need to talk responsibly about Pakistan.
It should be noted that users in Pakistan have been complaining about slow internet speeds and several social media apps being blocked or not working in the country for the past two weeks.
