Pakistan’s 5G is Coming Soon and Satellite Internet Will Follow: PTA

Pakistan is on the cusp of a significant digital leap, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) at the forefront, actively working to usher in a new era of connectivity. According to PTA Chairman Major General (Retd) Hafeez ur Rehman, 5G services are set to roll out soon, emphasizing the critical need to embrace emerging technologies while safeguarding public trust and ensuring robust cybersecurity.

Speaking at a recent cybersecurity workshop and awards ceremony, the PTA chief confirmed the authority’s proactive steps towards 5G implementation in Pakistan. He noted the rapid pace of global technological advancement, highlighting that China is already discussing 6G, and stressed that cybersecurity is paramount for the successful deployment of 5G.

The Chairman also addressed the powerful yet challenging aspects of Artificial Intelligence (AI). While acknowledging AI as an effective tool, he raised concerns about its misuse in creating fake audio and video messages. He underscored that preventing financial fraud, often exacerbated by such misuse, is a collective challenge that the PTA is actively tackling.

In an exciting development for broader internet access, the PTA Chairman revealed that the rules for the Pakistan Satellite Internet Regulatory Body (PSARB) are now complete, meaning satellite internet services will be launched in Pakistan in the near future. He reiterated the importance of data sovereignty and protection, secure internet and social media usage, and ensuring citizens’ privacy. “We must assure the nation that we are the protectors of your privacy and data,” he affirmed.

Further reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to digital security, PTA Director General Cyber Vigilance Dr. Mukaram Khan shared insights into the nation’s cybersecurity resilience. He reported that Pakistan has successfully defended against cyber warfare attempts, including those from India, with no major cyberattacks impacting the telecom sector. He proudly stated that the country’s cybersecurity standards have significantly improved, achieving an impressive score of 8.8 out of 10 within the telecom sector. Dr. Khan added that the PTA consistently conducts third-party cybersecurity audits of all telecom operators and is dedicated to addressing any existing vulnerabilities, ensuring a secure digital environment for all.