Pakistan Accused of Slowing Internet Like Iran? Government Responds

Concerns have emerged in Pakistan over alleged government control of internet speeds, drawing comparisons to internet restrictions in Iran. Citizens have accused the Pakistani government of deliberately throttling internet access, prompting an official written response from the authorities.

Government Denies Intentional Slowdown

Recent public allegations suggest that the Pakistani government has been slowing down internet speeds across the country. Internet throttling, which refers to deliberately reducing bandwidth, has sparked widespread debate.

In its official statement, the government denied using any system to intentionally slow down internet speeds. However, it acknowledged the presence of a Web Monitoring System (WMS) used to block certain content online.

Web Monitoring System and Platform Blocks

Reports indicate that the Pakistani government employs the Web Monitoring System to restrict access to objectionable content and platforms such as X (formerly Twitter). Officials clarified that this system is not new; it has existed in various forms since 2008, and was installed by telecom companies without using government funds.

Through WMS, Pakistan has successfully blocked access to X and other content deemed inappropriate.

Internet Speed Under Scrutiny?

Despite public concerns, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government has officially stated that no system has been installed to reduce internet speed intentionally.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) performs regular updates to monitor internet bandwidth, which some citizens have misinterpreted as throttling. The government clarified that web content monitoring is solely aimed at blocking inappropriate material and does not affect internet speed.

Content Control and Legal Authority

The WMS is also used to remove explicit or illegal content online. According to reports, Pakistan has blocked approximately 6.5 million pornographic websites using this system. The government has legal authority to regulate and remove content from the internet, ensuring compliance with national laws.

Pakistan’s response highlights a distinction between content monitoring and deliberate bandwidth throttling, even as public concerns over internet freedom continue to grow.