Pakistan is preparing to launch a new secure messaging app called BEEP. This platform is specially made for all public sector employees. The goal is to provide fully encrypted communication for government business. The National Information Technology Board (NITB) shared this important update. It happened during a recent meeting with the National Assembly Standing Committee.
Full Security Clearance for BEEP
NITB CEO, Faisal Iqbal Ratyal, confirmed that the BEEP app is fully developed. All necessary government agencies have certified it as safe to use. The National Computer Emergency Response Team officially declared the app secure. Mr. Ratyal stated that BEEP has stronger security than common messaging apps like WhatsApp. It offers full encryption for all messages and video calls.
Encryption Extended to Video Calls
Popular apps like WhatsApp already encrypt text messages, which is standard. However, BEEP goes further by extending end-to-end encryption to video communications. This extra security makes it very suitable for sensitive government discussions and matters. The launch will happen in planned steps, starting with the federal ministries first. Officials expect the entire rollout process to take about two months.
A Global Trend for Digital Safety
This move by Pakistan reflects a growing trend seen around the world. For example, neighboring India has also created its own secure platform, similar to WhatsApp, for official government use. These regional secure apps are developed to lessen reliance on foreign platforms. This is part of Pakistan’s wider strategy for digital sovereignty and better cybersecurity, which is a key priority.
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Focus on Security Over Profits
The NITB CEO mentioned that BEEP will use a fee model based on usage. The aim is to make the platform financially self-sustaining over time. However, the IT Secretary stressed that making money is not the main goal. The priority is providing highly secure, efficient, and reliable communication for all government institutions. The app will also work with Pakistan’s federal e-Office system.
Improving NITB’s Performance
During the committee meeting, the NITB’s technical work was praised. But there were concerns about the visibility of the Punjab Information Technology Board. The IT Secretary admitted that previous uncertainty about NITB’s future had slowed down performance. He assured lawmakers that the organization is now fully operational and ready to move forward successfully.
Alignment with Regional Precedent
Officials are confident that NITB’s performance will quickly improve in the coming months. The BEEP initiative aims to enhance Pakistan’s overall digital governance framework. This effort aligns the country with regional actions to protect state communications effectively. For example, India uses ‘Arattai by Zoho’ for secure internal discussions.
Learning from Neighboring Initiatives
Pakistan’s decision follows a regional example set by India very closely. India introduced a government-only alternative to WhatsApp for official use. This was done to reduce dependence on foreign platforms for sensitive state data. Indian officials cited national security and data sovereignty as key reasons for switching from commercial messaging apps to internal coordination and official file sharing.