‘To enhance cybersecurity, prevent misuse, maintain law & order’
Srinagar: Authorities in several districts of Kashmir have announced the temporary suspension of Virtual Private Network (VPN) services across their respective districts, citing security concerns and the need to maintain law and order.
In Pulwama, police officials informed the public that, following directives from the District Magistrate, VPN services have been restricted with immediate effect. The move is described as a preventive measure to enhance cyber security, prevent misuse of VPNs, and facilitate lawful monitoring.
Citizens have been urged to fully comply and refrain from using VPNs on all digital devices during this period. Violators will face strict legal action under applicable laws. Police have appealed for public cooperation in safeguarding peace and security in the district.
Similarly, in Kulgam, the Deputy Commissioner has ordered the suspension of VPN services for two months, effective immediately. This order stems from security considerations and concerns over potential misuse of VPNs that could hinder law enforcement efforts.
All residents have been requested to adhere to the directive and cooperate with authorities. The police emphasized that non-compliance will lead to strict legal consequences and called on the public to support efforts in maintaining peace and security.
Authorities in both districts underscore that these measures are crucial for public safety and request the cooperation of residents to uphold law and order during this period.
Meanwhile, in the interest of public safety, law and order, and data security, the District Administration Budgam has ordered the suspension of all kinds of Virtual Private Network (VPN) services on mobile phones within District Budgam for a period of two months, with effect from the date of issuance of the order, unless withdrawn earlier.
The order has been issued by the District Magistrate, Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, following inputs received from the Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam regarding unprecedented and suspicious high usage of VPNs across various parts of the district.
The communication highlighted that such usage has the potential to be exploited for unlawful and anti-national activities, including incitement of unrest, dissemination of inflammatory material, and coordination of activities prejudicial to the maintenance of public order. It was further observed that VPNs enable encrypted data transmission, mask IP addresses, bypass firewalls and website restrictions, and may expose sensitive information to potential cyber threats.
Considering the prevailing circumstances and the need to take immediate preventive measures to safeguard public security and sensitive data, the District Magistrate deemed it necessary to impose the said restriction.
As per the order, Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, has been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order in letter and spirit.
The District Administration has appealed to the public for cooperation in the interest of maintaining peace, public order, and data security in the district.