For the first time, the Pakistani government has officially confirmed that internet disruptions in the country are due to an upgrade of its ‘web management system,’ a move designed to enhance cyber security. This confirmation comes after weeks of public speculation and widespread complaints about internet slowdowns, particularly impacting social media platforms and WhatsApp connectivity.
Previously, the government had largely remained silent on the matter, often deflecting blame onto telecom and internet service providers or even Meta. However, following mounting public pressure and media scrutiny, the Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, admitted to the government’s involvement during a Senate Standing Committee meeting on Thursday.
She explained that the government is currently upgrading its ‘web management system’ as part of a ‘routine exercise’ to improve internet security. This system, often referred to by the public as a ‘firewall,’ has been blamed for the internet slowdowns and social media access issues. While Khawaja emphasized the importance of protecting national interests against cyber threats, she provided no specific details about the system or its functionalities.
The government’s vague explanation has fueled skepticism among critics who are demanding more transparency. They argue that the lack of information and the lack of clarity on how this ‘web management system’ is impacting internet access is concerning. They also point out that the slowdowns and blockages are disproportionately affecting social media platforms, raising concerns about potential censorship and freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, users continue to experience difficulties accessing social media platforms, with reports of outages affecting WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. A petition was filed in the Lahore High Court seeking immediate restoration of internet access, highlighting the growing concern and frustration among the Pakistani public.
This situation raises important questions about the balance between national security and internet freedom. The Pakistani government must provide detailed information about the ‘web management system’ and its impact on internet access, ensuring transparency and accountability. It is crucial that any security measures are implemented without compromising the rights of citizens to access information and express themselves freely online.
