The Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has announced that using virtual private networks (VPNs) is “un-Islamic.” The reason for this is the concern that VPNs can be used to access immoral or illegal content. According to CII Chairman Allama Dr. Raghib Hussain Naeemi, the government has the right to block VPNs that are used to bypass restrictions on harmful websites, including those that contain pornography or blasphemous material.
In response to this issue, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has been ordered to block “illegal VPNs” to protect societal values and ensure that online activity aligns with Islamic principles. The CII has called for stronger regulations to control the use of social media and prevent its misuse. This includes making sure that social media platforms are used safely and responsibly.
The CII’s stance on VPNs reflects a concern for maintaining moral values in society and ensuring that technology is not used to harm individuals or communities.
By blocking access to certain websites and controlling the use of VPNs, the government aims to create a safer online environment that is in line with Islamic teachings. The focus is on protecting people from exposure to harmful content and preventing the misuse of the internet for activities that could negatively affect society.