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What Iranians Are Doing to Stay Online Amid Restrictions

In Iran, getting online has become a tricky endeavor. Recently, the government has imposed tighter restrictions on internet access, making it hard for many to connect.

Despite the hurdles, many Iranians are finding clever ways to stay online. A popular tool they use is VPNs, or virtual private networks. VPNs allow users to create a secure connection to another network over the internet. This means they can bypass local restrictions and access blocked sites like Twitter and Facebook. However, even VPN access is becoming challenging. The government is stepping up its efforts to detect and block these services.

According to Netblocks, a web monitoring group, internet connectivity has been disrupted lately. Some users report that only a few can still connect using "multi-hop" VPNs, which route online activity through multiple servers. But the authorities are quick to detect this as well, making it a constant cat-and-mouse game.

To highlight the significance of these challenges, a recent Pew Research Center study indicated that nearly 80% of Iranians are concerned about their online privacy and freedom. This statistic sheds light on the growing apprehension among the population about government surveillance.

Social media has played a vital role in informing the public about these developments. Posts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are often the go-to source for news. Yet, as the government restricts access, these platforms are becoming less reliable.

Moreover, Iranian state media recently warned citizens against using platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram. They claimed that these apps could be used by foreign entities to gather personal information. Meta, the company behind both apps, has denied these accusations, emphasizing user safety.

Historically, internet censorship in Iran isn’t new. Following the 2009 protests, the government tightened its grip on online activities. The present situation reflects a continuation of these longstanding practices, as authorities try to control information flow.

In a world where staying connected is essential, the Iranian struggle is a reminder of how critical digital freedom is. The resilience of the people, however, shows a powerful desire for connection and information, despite the barriers they face.

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