Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued notices to some service providers for providing satellite-based internet services illegally in the country, it is reliably learnt. Official sources revealed toBusiness Recorder on Friday that some service providers are providing satellite-based internet services illegally, causing huge loss to the exchequer, besides posing serious security threats.
The matter came into the notice of the PTA and the authority has issued notices to the service providers, asking them to stop this illegal service.
According to licensing framework in Pakistan, satellite services can be offered through long distance and international (LDI) operators after obtaining prior permission/NOC from the PTA. In this regard, the PTA has authorised Red Tone Telecommunication (LDI operator) for sale of Yahsat Satellite Services in Pakistan and Thuraya Satellite Services through Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) only. The rest of the services, if any, are illegal and for them, the PTA has issued a notice.
In the notices issued by the PTA, it has been admitted that some service providers are providing illegal services, violating the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-Organisation) Act, 1996 and PTA's rules and regulations. They are offering satellite-based internet/data services without proper authorisation and approval from the PTA.
"The service providers should stop offering these unlawful services. If they fail to do so, legal action will be taken against them. The subscribers and general public are advised not to avail such unauthorised services, and should halt such services from operators, who have no NOC or authorisation from the PTA," maintained in the notices.
Those pursuing satellite-based internet facilities from unauthorised providers may face quality matters and secretarial problems. The users are recommended to get same services from those operators having NOC from the PTA. Without NOC, service providers are not allowed to continue to deliver their services.
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