PTA Chairman Major General retd Hafeez Ur Rehman has stated that preparations for Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction have been completed and the rollout of 5G services is drawing closer. He shared these remarks during an informal interaction with media representatives, indicating that PTA is now ready to move to the next phase of the process. According to him, the authority plans to formally request the government to conduct the 5G spectrum auction before the start of Ramadan, signaling a key step toward the introduction of next generation mobile services in the country.
Providing further details, the PTA chairman said that the information memorandum for the 5G auction is expected to be issued within the next 10 to 15 days. Once released, telecom operators will be given a period of 45 days to complete the necessary procedural requirements related to participation in the auction. He explained that if the information memorandum is issued by January 1, the auction could take place on February 15. Industry stakeholders view this timeline as a significant development, as it provides greater clarity around the long awaited 5G launch and allows mobile operators to plan their technical and financial strategies accordingly. The auction is expected to play a central role in expanding high speed connectivity, supporting emerging digital services, and enhancing the overall performance of mobile broadband networks across Pakistan.
While discussing telecom sector developments, Hafeez Ur Rehman also addressed broader issues related to cybersecurity and digital behavior during a national cybersecurity awareness seminar. He emphasized that in the current digital age, it is essential for individuals to continuously learn advanced digital skills rather than assuming they fully understand the online world. He pointed out that many people spend several hours each day on social media platforms and advised users to limit their digital engagement to what is necessary. According to him, excessive and uninformed use of digital platforms increases exposure to online risks, making users more vulnerable to fraud, misinformation, and manipulation.
Highlighting the rising level of cyber threats, the PTA chairman referred to a recent case in which a citizen was defrauded of Rs 30 million. He said such incidents underline the urgent need for greater public awareness and caution while using digital services. Hafeez Ur Rehman also warned about the growing misuse of artificial intelligence technologies, particularly AI generated videos that can appear highly realistic and make it difficult to distinguish between genuine and fake content. He noted that these developments pose new challenges not only for individuals but also for institutions responsible for maintaining trust and security in digital ecosystems.
He stated that while the government is fulfilling its responsibility by introducing relevant laws and regulatory measures, individuals must also take ownership of their own digital safety. According to the PTA chairman, informed users are better equipped to protect themselves from financial losses and other forms of harm arising from cyber incidents. He added that public awareness initiatives play a critical role in reducing risks and can even help save lives by preventing serious consequences of digital fraud and deception. Hafeez Ur Rehman reaffirmed that PTA will continue its efforts to promote a safe and secure digital environment in Pakistan, alongside advancing key telecom initiatives such as the upcoming 5G spectrum auction.
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