Senate Committee Discusses Telecom Data Security and 5G Spectrum Auction
Overview of Recent Developments
On September 19, the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication convened to discuss critical issues surrounding data security and the telecom sector in Pakistan. The meeting, led by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, addressed pressing concerns related to data theft, telecom services, and the highly anticipated 5G spectrum auction.
Dark Web Data Concerns
A key point of discussion was the recent statement made by the Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). He informed committee members that no telecom data had been detected on the dark web in the past two years. Despite this promising news, he underscored the need for a national-level strategy to bolster data security across the telecommunications sector.
In his briefing, the PTA Chairman acknowledged that while telecom-related data remains secure, other sensitive information continues to find its way onto the dark web. This has raised alarms regarding the integrity of data management systems in the country. He called for a thorough investigation to trace the origins of these leaks, revealing that the PTA had already begun an internal inquiry in 2022, which led to a formal investigation launched by the Ministry of Interior.
Addressing Data Theft
Senator Afnan Ullah Khan pointed out a troubling trend where data is often pilfered from various institutions, compiled, and subsequently sold. He highlighted the alarming nature of these data breaches by sharing a personal experience of receiving a fraudulent call linked to banking information. This led to a broader discussion on the vulnerability of sensitive data and the ease with which fraudsters gain access to it.
The committee expressed concern over the slow progress in enacting personal data protection legislation. Representatives from the Ministry of IT informed the members that a draft bill was in place and stakeholder consultations were in progress. Nevertheless, Senator Afnan Ullah cautioned that continued delays could expose the nation to significant risks.
Financial Misconduct and Audit Reviews
The committee also tackled issues related to financial discrepancies within the telecom sector, focusing on the recovery of over Rs. 6 billion in tariffs owed by consumers to Jazz. Responding to a request from audit authorities, the committee referred this matter to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). PTA officials confirmed that relevant documents had already been submitted for further verification.
Quality of Telecom Services
Concerns regarding the quality of mobile services were another major topic of discussion. Senator Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto presented evidence of deteriorating mobile service quality and frequent call drops experienced nationwide. He specifically mentioned the lack of adequate 2G service along the Karachi–Sukkur Motorway, prompting discussions about the need for improvements in service reliability.
Merger Updates and 5G Auction
The committee also addressed the anticipated merger between Ufone and Telenor, which has faced delays. Officials from the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) reassured the committee that the merger was nearing completion, with expectations set for finalization within two weeks. However, Senator Kamran Murtaza raised doubts about whether this timeline could be realistically achieved, given the length of the merger process thus far.
Regarding the 5G spectrum auction, the PTA Chairman confirmed that the auction could not proceed until the merger was finalized. Nonetheless, officials from the Ministry of IT informed the committee that the 5G auction is planned to take place in December. The PTA Chairman remains optimistic, stating that the Authority is fully prepared, although some unresolved issues still need attention.
Concluding Remarks
As the discussions unfold, the focal points of data security, financial accountability, service quality, and technological advancement set the landscape for significant changes in Pakistan’s telecommunications sector. The outcome of these deliberations will be crucial in shaping a secure and efficient telecom environment for both consumers and service providers.
