Pakistan begins blocking unregistered VPN apps, affecting Proton

Authorities have begun blocking some unregistered VPN apps in Pakistan, and Proton confirmed its apps were restricted from December 22; the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority resumed VPN licensing in November and later granted the first set of licenses to five local companies. Undetermined at this time.

Pakistan has begun restricting access to some unregistered VPN apps, according to reports and a confirmation from Proton. Proton said its apps have been restricted in the country since December 22. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) resumed a VPN licensing framework in November and announced it had granted the first set of licenses to five local companies. It remains unclear how many other VPN providers are affected. Key points: - Proton confirmed its VPN apps have been restricted in Pakistan since December 22. - The PTA resumed VPN licensing in November and announced it granted licenses to five local companies on November 13, 2025. - It is unclear how many other providers are affected; reports and user posts cite disruptions to multiple services. Summary: The reported restrictions limit access to some VPN services and occur against the backdrop of the PTA's renewed licensing efforts. Undetermined at this time.