Second trial run of controversial firewall conducted

ISLAMABAD: Amid widespread concern from internet users and digital rights advocates over disruptions to digital platforms and slow internet speeds, Pakistani authorities have conducted a second trial run of a controversial firewall, telecom sources said on Thursday.

The firewall, equipped with deep packet inspection (DPI) capabilities, was installed on internet service providers (ISPs) to address national security concerns, the sources said.

They also confirmed that the installation of the new firewall led to a slowdown in mobile signals and internet services, which is intended to block unwanted content. Social media services are expected to return to normal speed within two to three days after the trial period ends.

The first trial run, reportedly conducted in July, also resulted in slowed social media platforms. The federal government allocated over Rs30 billion in the development budget for acquiring and installing this filtering system, with the Ministry of Information Technology handling the funds. However, the project is being executed by another authority.

The negative impact of the firewall’s installation has drawn criticism from local internet users and digital rights organizations, who are concerned about the future of internet-based businesses in Pakistan.

As internet users continue to struggle with access and speed issues, the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) attributed these problems to increased security and surveillance measures, warning that the economic consequences could be severe.

WISPAP Chairman Shahzad Arshad said on Thursday that internet speeds have decreased by around 30% to 40%, which has had a devastating effect on businesses and individuals relying on stable internet connectivity. He noted that many customers are abandoning smaller ISPs due to the decline in service quality, and if this trend continues, Pakistan could see a significant exodus of businesses.

The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) echoed these concerns, highlighting that in 2023, Pakistani startups raised just $75.8 million across 39 deals—a sharp 77% decline in funding and a 42% drop in deal volume year-over-year. The OICCI warned that these disruptions could derail Pakistan’s economic progress, stifle innovation, and significantly harm prospects for foreign direct investment (FDI), which is crucial for the nation’s economic recovery.

Despite these issues, the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the country’s top cyber regulator, have remained silent as millions across Pakistan continue to face difficulties accessing internet services, particularly through mobile data in some regions.

The ongoing internet disruption is not only infringing on citizens’ rights but also causing financial losses to the national economy, with several online businesses, including e-commerce and ride-hailing services, suffering from restricted connectivity. Additionally, users of the popular messaging app WhatsApp in Pakistan have reported long delays and failures when uploading and downloading content of all types.