Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has released a notice relating to ads on social media claiming to provide satellite internet service. The regulator has also warned that responsible parties could face legal action if they continue to spread “misinformation.”
In the notice, the telecom authority directed responsible companies to stop making posts claiming to provide satellite internet services in Nepal. Such posts have appeared on Facebook and other social media from unlicensed companies for telecom services. The regulator has thus warned that responsible parties could be subject to legal action and asks the public to inform if they know of such enterprise in action.
Likewise, it is illegal to operate any telecom service in Nepal without the direct approval of NTA. That is why the authority has warned the responsible parties against making such claims and spreading falsity on social media.
In a statement, the regulator said it is against the law to operate any telecom service without permission.
“Article 21 of the prevalent Telecommunications Act, 2053 states that no one is allowed to operate telecommunications service without a license. But recently in social media, there are ads relating to satellite internet service in Nepal,” the notice reads. We don’t advise anyone or company to operate internet service without acquiring a license by the regulator,” NTA reminds.
It has also warned that any company responsible for operating internet service is deemed an outlaw and will be subject to legal action. Likewise, the notice urges not to misinform the public.
The authority has also urged the public to inform in case they are knowledgeable of anyone providing such services under the shadow.
Also read: NTA specifies minimum Rx level for Mobile coverage
Stay alert to fake messages and posts
Scams and spams are commonplaces in telecommunications services. But, we must stay alert and be and be able to differentiate between the legitimate and the opposite. Recently, many mobile subscribers in Nepal received fake bumper offer messages on their phones. NTA promptly issued a warning against clicking on the link in the message.
Similarly, we can frequently notice fake posts on social media claiming to reward us with data packs from telecom companies. These posts have no substance and are illegitimate. You should simply ignore them and report the page or parties behind it for everyone’s safety.
Subscribing to unregulated services, or clicking on unverified links can expose our personal data and lead to unwanted situations. We need to be careful and inform the authority in case we find something dubious.
Satellite internet in Nepal is crucial
At the moment, Nepal has fixed-line fiber internet service providers and telecom operators providing mobile broadband service. A satellite internet service has not yet begun. However, it is possible that Starlink terminals would be available soon in Nepal.
A satellite internet service would greatly aid to enhance broadband connectivity in Nepal. Not all places are easy to establish telecom infrastructure due to uneven terrain. The satellite could compensate for that, especially in remote hinterlands.
Have you come across such ads claiming to provide satellite internet service in Nepal as NTA has warned about in its notice? Do share with us in the comments below.
