ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Tuesday issued a clarification about reports that it is using delaying tactics to ban 1600 websites dealing in cryptocurrency.
In mid-January, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) wrote to PTA, seeking a ban on the websites after it unearthed a mega scandal in which several Pakistanis were scammed of millions of rupees through online channels.
The development also came after the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) recommended a complete ban on all cryptocurrencies in the country when it submitted its report to the Sindh High Court.
In its letter to PTA, the investigation agency sought a ban on 1600 crypto websites and help to trace the people involved in such activities.
Later, reports emerged that FIA has decided to take the issue to higher-ups as PTA was reluctant to block the websites despite sending several reminders.
The telecommunication authority in its clarification said that reports about reminders by FIA are “incorrect”.
“In fact PTA has written to FIA requesting the legal provisions under which such websites can be blocked. The response is currently awaited and prompt action will be undertaken once clarification from FIA is received. Furthermore, the matter is already in process and will be dealt accordingly as per law,” read PTA statement.
Read more: https://pakobserver.net/cryptocurrency-scam-involving-billions-of-rupees-unearthed-in-pakistan/
