Amid growing concern from internet users and digital rights activists over the disruption of digital platforms and reduced internet speed, Pakistani authorities have completed the second trial run of a highly debated firewall system, telecom sources revealed to Geo News on Thursday.
The firewall, equipped with deep packet inspection (DPI) capabilities, has been installed on internet service providers (ISPs) across the country. According to the sources, the firewall was deployed in response to national security concerns. However, its installation has significantly impacted mobile signals and internet services, leading to noticeable slowdowns aimed at blocking unwanted content.
Telecom insiders assured that all social media services are expected to return to normal speeds within the next two to three days, following the completion of the firewall’s trial period. The first trial run, conducted in July, similarly resulted in a slowdown of social media platforms.
The federal government allocated over Rs30 billion in the development budget for the acquisition and installation of this filtering system. The Ministry of Information Technology received the funding, but another governmental power center is overseeing the project’s execution.
The negative repercussions of the firewall’s installation have sparked widespread criticism from local netizens and digital rights organizations, who have voiced concerns about the potential threats to internet-based businesses in Pakistan. Critics argue that the firewall could stifle digital freedoms and harm the country’s burgeoning online economy.
As the trial concludes, many are closely watching how the government will balance national security with the need to maintain a free and open internet for its citizens.
