Pakistan to Ban Encryption Software

Protecting privacy is good for business. Yet the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority has ordered internet providers in the world’s sixth largest nation to report any customers using virtual private networks to browse the web. The directive could disrupt the work of investors, entrepreneurs and researchers who routinely rely on virtual private networks, including encrypted emails, for secure communications. Access to corporate files is often only available through VPNs. “[B]anks, call centres and many other businesses use encrypted connections to communicate with their branches and customers, to protect sensitive data such as account numbers and passwords,” notes an article in the Guardian. An incredulous software developer in Pakistan labeled the move as “knee-jerk,” comparing it to banning cars to prevent suicide bombings. The move follows a Pakistani ban on social media like Facebook. Customers can apply for permission to use encryption or private networks, and millions of applications could be filed if Pakistan is ready to do business. – YaleGlobal