Govt to install firewall to control social media

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani government has decided to implement a firewall to control "unwanted messages" on social media platforms.

Internet service providers have reportedly agreed to the government's proposal for this firewall installation.

This firewall will feature a technology called "deep packet inspection."

Sources indicate that deep packet inspection can analyze data up to Layer 7, allowing it to filter data, while the firewall can block data at the IP level rather than the application level.

The firewall will be capable of identifying and blocking propaganda points on social media, as well as the IDs responsible for uploading such content.

The installation of the firewall will take place at internet service provider companies, with the costs being shared between the government and these companies.

According to sources, internet service providers have agreed to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority's (PTA) proposal.

Meanwhile, the IT Ministry believes that internet service providers are responsible for preventing illegal content, whereas the installation of the firewall falls under the PTA's jurisdiction. However, the PTA has been hesitant to provide an opinion on the firewall's installation.