NetBlocks, a renowned global organization monitoring internet activity, has reported that WhatsApp has been blocked in Pakistan.
According to NetBlocks, authorities in Pakistan have blocked WhatsApp backends, which supports allegations of media sharing concerns. This comes as authorities tighten security ahead of protests scheduled by the opposition party PTI, which asks for the release of former PM Imran Khan.
According to a graphic shared by NetBlocks, the reachability of WhatsApp is zero on the majority of ISPs. However, NetBlocks stated that WhatsApp is still accessible on 50% of the servers connected to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited.
Disruptions have occurred just before the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf is set to stage a demonstration in Islamabad, calling for the release of the imprisonment of former prime minister Imran Khan.
According to a spokesperson from the Interior Ministry, Wi-Fi service suspensions would be conditional and implemented only in places where security concerns exist. This information was announced on Saturday.
Mobile data and WiFi service will be suspended only in areas of security concerns,” the spokesperson said in a statement. “Internet and mobile services will continue to operate as usual in the rest of the country.
