Tech Desk 
Nov 29, 2024
Despite the digital crisis in the country involving disruptions in accessing the internet and social media, the use of VPNs in Pakistan has witnessed another surprising surge.
According to ProPakistani, the VPN demand began soaring on November 24, with Top10VPN — an independent VPN reviewer— predicting a 330% increase compared to regular demand.
The new sign-ups on Proton VPN ascended by 730% on Monday, followed by another spell taking sign-ups to 2860% on Tuesday.
The dramatic rise is said to be prompted by social media restrictions imposed last week because of anti-government protests causing mayhem in the federal capital and its surrounding areas.
On the sidelines of blocking popular social media platforms, the authorities also blocked access to Bluesky, another social media platform competing and bearing resemblance to Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter).
It's worth noting that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and others were not accessible in several areas even after using VPNs.
With a new VPN policy under consideration by the government, VPN access in the country may take a different course as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has set a November 30 deadline for businesses and freelancers to register VPNs for commercial usage.
