Cristina Von Sperling Afrifi (T.l.),
The growing use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) globally has highlighted their dual role in society. While they are vital for enhancing online privacy and securing official communication to inform on important policy matters, their misuse is becoming a cause for concern. In Pakistan, VPNs are often exploited to access restricted websites, platforms, and applications, making their regulation a pressing issue. Particularly alarming is the misuse of VPNs by Pakistan’s youth—140 million under the age of 30—for illegal activities such as accessing drugs, engaging in gambling games, and succumbing to gaming addiction.
The Karim Khan Afridi Welfare Foundation (KKAWF) has actively campaigned since 2015 for stricter control over VPN misuse, especially in curbing its role in facilitating crime-related activities. This includes drug procurement, gambling, and access to harmful online content. During a 2017 meeting with Dr. Syed Ismail Shah, then Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), KKAWF emphasized these dangers alongside representatives from the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and cellular service providers. Over the years, civil society organizations (CSOs) and experts have repeatedly raised this issue, yet focused and effective action remains insufficient to address its scale.
The Dark Side of VPN Misuse
By masking user identities, VPNs enable anonymous access to platforms that promote dangerous activities. They are frequently used by young people to purchase narcotics, engage in gambling, and conduct illegal transactions on the darknet. Reports suggest that 20 million attempts are made daily in Pakistan to access restricted content, including pornography, using VPNs. This unregulated access fosters harmful habits, erodes societal values, and contributes to a rise in youth delinquency.
VPN misuse also intersects with another growing problem: online gambling. Many gaming platforms include gambling elements, such as loot boxes and betting systems, which can develop into full-fledged gambling addiction among youth. This addiction often leads to financial distress, isolation, and mental health issues. Moreover, gambling games normalize risky behaviours and distract young people from productive activities.
Addressing Online Gaming Addiction
The rise of online gaming compounds these challenges. Games like PUBG and other war simulations are linked to addiction, exposure to violence, and access to inappropriate content. Unsupervised gaming can lead to troubling behaviours, including violent acts and suicides influenced by social media and gaming culture.
Furthermore, some cellular companies aggressively promote such platforms to boost revenue, often disregarding their societal impact. This commercialization of gaming feeds a cycle of addiction, exacerbated by the lack of parental awareness about the content and risks their children face online.
Gaming and gambling addictions are closely tied to screen dependency, fostering isolation and delinquent behaviours. As young people spend more time immersed in virtual worlds, their social development and mental well-being are at risk. Addressing these issues requires proactive measures to promote awareness, regulate gaming content, and create safe online spaces.
Sports as a Constructive Alternative
To address the challenges posed by VPN misuse, gaming, and gambling addiction, Pakistan must channel the energies of its youth into constructive activities such as sports. The Sports Policy of 2004 mandates a minimum of four hours of games per week in educational institutions. However, this policy remains largely unimplemented, depriving young people of opportunities to engage in physical activities that promote discipline, teamwork, and mental well-being.
Sports provide a powerful alternative to unhealthy online behaviours by fostering positive lifestyles. Team sports and competitive activities encourage resilience, focus, and camaraderie, reducing the likelihood of engagement in crime-related or addictive behaviours. Educational institutions must prioritize implementing sports policies to provide youth with structured and beneficial outlets.
Toward a Balanced Policy
The misuse of VPNs, addictive nature of online gaming, and influence of gambling games pose significant threats to Pakistan’s youth. Cellular companies, policymakers, educational institutions, and parents share the responsibility of creating a secure environment that protects young people from these risks.
While restricting VPNs is a step toward addressing misuse, the Government of Pakistan must involve all stakeholders in developing balanced VPN policies. A collaborative approach will ensure that regulations protect the public interest while accommodating legitimate uses, such as privacy and data security for businesses and official communications.
KKAWF’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment
KKAWF remains steadfast in its mission to protect young people from online addiction, substance abuse, and societal pressures. By fostering awareness, building life skills, and advocating for preventative measures like sports engagement, KKAWF is shaping a brighter future for Pakistan’s youth.
A unified effort to address these challenges can ensure that VPNs, gaming platforms, and online spaces are tools for progress rather than peril. Together, we can create an environment that nurtures the potential of our youth, guiding them toward healthier and more constructive lives.
