The Pakistani government has completed a trial run of a social media firewall, according to sources within the Ministry of Interior.

The firewall successfully blocked the downloading of images, voice recordings, and videos on social media platforms including WhatsApp.

Sources also revealed that the firewall slowed down mobile signals and internet service during the trial. The government tested the firewall on mobile data.

Following instructions from the Ministry of Interior, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) sent an email to all mobile companies regarding the firewall’s implementation.

Firewall being installed to filter ‘undesirable’ content from Pakistani internet

Facebook down on multiple ISPs in Pakistan, users and observers say

Amnesty International wants govt clarification over X blockade

WhatsApp and Facebook have reportedly returned to their normal functionality.

The government plans to purchase the firewall after the successful trial. The Ministry of Interior has already issued a tender for the purchase of the firewall.