BEEP App. The federal government of Pakistan is preparing to relaunch the BEEP application, a secure messaging platform designed exclusively for public sector employees. The app aims to replace the informal use of foreign messaging platforms for official communication and strengthen data security within government institutions.
The relaunch is expected within the next two months and will take place in phases, starting with federal ministries and their attached departments.
What Is the BEEP App?
BEEP Pakistan is a locally developed government communication application created to provide safe, encrypted, and reliable messaging services for officials working in the public sector.
The app was first introduced in August 2023 on a trial basis. After technical reviews, security audits, and feature upgrades, the government is now ready to relaunch it as a fully operational platform.
The project is being led by the National Information Technology Board, which confirmed that BEEP has been certified by all relevant authorities.
Official Confirmation in National Assembly
The relaunch was confirmed by Faisal Ratyal, Chief Executive Officer of NITB, during a briefing to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecom.
The committee is chaired by former IT minister Syed Amin Ul Haque, who originally launched the app in 2023. He directed NITB to ensure a timely and structured rollout of the platform.
Purpose of Relaunching BEEP
The core objective of BEEP is to provide a secure alternative to commonly used messaging apps for government work.
Key goals include:
- Protecting sensitive official communications
- Reducing reliance on foreign platforms
- Keeping government data within Pakistan
- Improving coordination between departments
Concerns about data security increased after global cyber incidents and conflicts in 2024, prompting renewed focus on secure digital infrastructure.
Key Features of the BEEP App
The upgraded version of BEEP includes several advanced security and productivity features designed for official use.
Secure Communication
- End-to-end encrypted text messaging
- Encrypted voice and video calls
- Secure file and document sharing
Government-Focused Design
- Built specifically for public sector workflows
- Controlled access for verified officials
- Suitable for sensitive discussions and meetings
Local Data Hosting
- All data servers are located inside Pakistan
- Enhanced control over national data sovereignty
The security framework is inspired by trusted international platforms such as WeChat, but adapted to Pakistan’s governance needs.
Integration With Pakistan e-Office System
One of the most important upgrades is BEEP’s planned integration with the federal e-Office System.
This integration will allow:
- Seamless internal messaging
- Secure document circulation
- Faster approvals and workflow coordination
- Reduced paperwork and delays
Officials believe this step will further enhance transparency and efficiency across ministries.
Phased Rollout Plan
The government will not launch BEEP nationwide all at once.
Phase 1
- Federal ministries
- Attached departments
Later Phases
- Provincial departments
- Autonomous government bodies
- Other public sector institutions
This phased approach will help address technical issues early and ensure smooth adoption.
Approval by National CERT
Before approval for official use, BEEP underwent security evaluations by the National Computer Emergency Response Team.
NCERT has formally cleared the app, confirming that it meets national cybersecurity and data protection standards.
BEEP vs WhatsApp for Government Use
While WhatsApp remains widely used in Pakistan, it was never designed for government operations.
| Feature | BEEP App | |
|---|---|---|
| Data Servers | Pakistan | Outside Pakistan |
| Designed for Govt Use | Yes | No |
| e-Office Integration | Yes | No |
| National Security Clearance | Yes | No |
| Controlled Access | Yes | Limited |
This comparison highlights why the government wants to shift official communication to BEEP.
Cost Model and Sustainability
According to NITB, BEEP will operate on a usage-based fee model.
However, officials clarified that:
- Revenue generation is not the main goal
- Priority is secure and efficient communication
- The model is designed to keep the platform sustainable over time
The app will remain focused on public service efficiency rather than profit.
Why BEEP Matters for Digital Governance
Pakistan has already taken steps toward digitization through systems like e-Office. Adding BEEP strengthens this ecosystem by:
- Reducing operational risks
- Improving internal coordination
- Enhancing cybersecurity
- Supporting paperless governance
Officials believe this move will modernize government communication and set a long-term foundation for secure digital operations.
Conclusion
The relaunch of the BEEP app marks an important step in Pakistan’s digital governance journey. With strong encryption, local data hosting, and integration with the e-Office system, BEEP offers a secure and reliable communication solution for public sector employees.
As concerns over data privacy and national security continue to grow, the government’s decision to relaunch and expand BEEP reflects a clear shift toward safer, locally controlled digital infrastructure.
