Today’s article will focus on the reasons behind the slow internet speeds in Pakistan, the underlying issues, and why these problems are expected to persist in the coming months.

Understanding Web Monitoring

We will delve into the realm of web monitoring and examine various web monitoring systems—how they function, what types are in use globally, which ones are utilized in Pakistan, and the state of our privacy both nationally and internationally.

Why Understanding Matters

This blog aims to equip you with foundational knowledge to counter the misinformation often spread through lengthy web sessions or grand talk shows that offer little in terms of accurate learning. In our society, if you attempt to engage with someone who doesn’t grasp your point, they might either admit their lack of understanding or become defensive and hostile. Such interactions discourage me from creating these videos, as I fear they might be misinterpreted, potentially leading to unwarranted controversy or propaganda. My goal is to convey the message as clearly and concisely as possible without compromising national interests.

As Pakistanis, we all wish to contribute positively to our country, and understanding the situation is the first step toward finding solutions. To clarify the issue, let me use a simple analogy.

Analogies to Explain Internet Monitoring

When you communicate with someone, you might do so face-to-face, with gestures, or in writing. Let’s consider writing. If you write a letter to someone special and it gets leaked, just like viral videos or clips, you would consider three possible scenarios: The leak could have occurred on your end—perhaps you shared it with a friend who then told others. Alternatively, the letter might have been intercepted and copied by someone else, like a video camera recording your every move. Or, it could have been leaked by the recipient—they might have shared it, or it could have been captured by someone else. Lastly, a corrupt mailman could have copied and shared the letter before delivering the original.

Similarly, in the digital world, we deal with endpoints, sources, and intermediaries handling communication.

Methods of Monitoring Communications

There are six primary methods of monitoring citizens’ communications worldwide, which are also used in Pakistan. I refer to these methods as DID SSF.

1. Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): This method involves examining every element of communication—who is talking to whom, which websites are visited, and what pages are accessed. For example, if you track an individual’s internet activity, the ISP (such as PTCL or Jazz) records their browsing history, including visited websites. If law enforcement needs to investigate, they can request the IP address and access browsing history for up to two years. This method contributes to the overall Internet issue in Pakistan today.
2. ISP Monitoring: This method involves tracking internet service providers’ records and activities. The PTCL internet issue in Pakistan is particularly noteworthy as it affects many users’ online experiences.
3. Data Retention Laws: Pakistani law mandates that ISPs and telecom providers retain data for up to two months, though they can store it for up to two years. This includes records of all calls and browsing activities, as outlined in the PECA Act of 2016, the Electronic Crimes Prevention Act, and previous regulations. These laws are part of the reason for the Internet issue in Pakistan today 2024.
4. Social Media Monitoring: Systems in Pakistan track all social media activity, including messages and calls, contributing to the Pakistan internet problem today Lahore.
5. Service Monitoring Software Systems: Various software systems are implemented throughout Pakistan to monitor different services. These systems impact the Pakistan internet problem today Karachi as they can influence connection speeds and stability.
6. Firewalls: Similar to systems in China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, these block access to certain sites like pornography and gambling. VPN usage is also monitored, and free VPNs often send data to government agencies. This method also plays a role in why internet is very slow in Pakistan.

Investment in Monitoring Systems

Despite financial constraints, Pakistan invests significantly in monitoring systems, spending approximately 1000 crore rupees annually on civil services. All six monitoring methods are active in Pakistan, and global equivalents include the Tempora system in the UK, which monitors undersea cables, and Upstream in the US. Pakistan also employs a targeted IP monitoring system, further exacerbating the internet issue in Pakistan today.

Current Monitoring Programs in Pakistan

Currently, Pakistan operates 14 monitoring programs, many of which even high officials might not be fully aware of. These systems include:

1. LIMs (Lawful Intercept Monitoring System): Utilizing the Blue Coat system.
2. Sen Mine: A web monitoring system from a Canadian company.
3. FinFisher: From Gamma Group, which was hacked and had its data leaked.
4. Pegasus: An NSA system for monitoring.
5. Hacking Team’s RCS (Remote Control System).
6. Norse: A top software not widely known.
7. Other Projects: Including the Safe City project and the Benazir Income Support Program database.

These monitoring systems track everything from social media activity to web visits, often resulting in data leaks or misuse. Understanding these systems and their implications is vital for maintaining privacy and navigating the complex landscape of digital communication today. For many, addressing the Internet issue in Pakistan today is crucial for improving overall connectivity and service quality.