Zero-Rated Websites in Pakistan: A Review
Zero-rating is a practice where mobile network operators (MNOs) allow users to access specific websites or apps at no data cost. This means even if you have zero balance or have exhausted your data bundle, these platforms remain functional. Key Zero-Rated Platforms in Pakistan
Zero-Rated Websites in Pakistan: A Game-Changer for Internet Accessibility
Take Jazz (the largest mobile network in Pakistan). They frequently run promotions like "WhatsApp for Rs. 2/day" or "Zero-rated YouTube until 10 PM." Similarly, Zong 4G offers "Zero-rated TikTok" for heavy users, acknowledging that social video is the primary driver of consumption.
While the exact list changes based on active promotions, the following categories and sites are frequently zero-rated: Social Media:
C. Health & Education (CSR Initiatives)
Telecom companies often partner with NGOs to provide free access to information.
Drawbacks (Cons) – Important for a critical review
- Violates net neutrality – Operators give preferential treatment to certain websites, potentially slowing others or making them costlier.
- Limited to a few global platforms – Promotes Facebook/WhatsApp (US-owned) over local services or open web.
- Privacy concerns – Operators may track zero-rated usage to profile users.
- Illusion of free internet – Users often don’t realize that only text/posts might be free; images, videos, or clicking external links can still consume data.
- No competition – New local social networks can’t compete if they aren’t zero-rated.
Taleemabad: Partnered with networks to provide free primary education content.