Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction, Freedom Telecom, Spark New Zealand and Nokia, Cybersecurity threats in the global telecom industry.
Pakistan’s 5G Auction Delayed Due to Merger Issues
Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction has been delayed by at least four months due to regulatory delays over the Telenor-PTCL merger. The Competition Commission of Pakistan is still reviewing the merger, filed in February 2024. This delay impacts Pakistan’s 5G rollout plans, which were initially set for 2025. Despite completed technical assessments, the auction remains stalled due to unclear policy directions and regional geopolitical tensions, affecting the country’s digital infrastructure growth and telecom sector.
Freedom Telecom Acquires Astel
Freedom Telecom, a subsidiary of Freedom Holding, acquired Astel Group for $22.4 million. Astel, a satellite operator, has been in the telecommunications market since 1993. The acquisition allows Freedom Telecom to expand its satellite and fiber optic services. Astel operates 19 branch offices and serves 4,000 terminals. Freedom Telecom is building a fiber optic network and has completed 5,000 kilometers of fiber. The company also operates Open Wi-Fi at 150 locations in Kazakhstan. Key projects include a West-East fiber optic highway and Tier 3 data centers for data traffic.
Spark New Zealand and Nokia Partnership
Spark New Zealand partnered with Nokia to manage network operations. Nokia will handle day-to-day network tasks, while Spark will retain control over strategy and major incidents. This partnership focuses on using AI and automation to reduce costs. Spark and Nokia will develop AI-driven tools to improve network issue detection. Spark plans to cut NZD80 million to NZD100 million in operational costs by March 2026. Spark has 2.6 million mobile connections in New Zealand.
Cybersecurity Threats in Telecom Industry After SK Telecom Hack
SK Telecom (SKT) in South Korea experienced a hacking incident where 25 types of malware were discovered on its servers. Among these, 24 were identified as BPFdoor variants, a type of backdoor malware used by hacking groups, suspected to be supported by Chinese authorities. This malware allows unauthorized access to telecom servers without detection. Experts warn that South Korea may face increased targeting due to its strategic position. The motive for these attacks is believed to be political, aiming to gather communication data for surveillance rather than financial gain. The hacking incident has led to calls for enhanced national security measures and strategies to protect telecom infrastructure, Korea Herald reports.
TelecomLead.com News Desk
