Iranian Government's Decision to Shut Down Internet as a Defense Measure against Cyberattacks

Earlier this week, virtually everyone in Iran experienced a significant disruption in their access to the internet, resulting in what was described as a “near-total national internet blackout.”

The Shutdown and its Implications

The cause of this blackout was initially unclear, leaving many Iranians struggling to obtain information about the ongoing conflict with Israel and communicate with their loved ones. However, the Iranian government has since confirmed that the shutdown was implemented as a security measure against potential cyberattacks from Israel.

In a statement, Iran’s government spokesperson, Fatemeh Mohajerani, highlighted the need for increased security measures due to cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and financial institutions in the country. The decision to restrict internet access was also motivated by concerns over the control of enemy drones and the exchange of information through online channels.

The Impact on Everyday Life

As a result of the internet shutdown, ordinary Iranians both inside and outside the country are facing challenges, particularly in light of ongoing Israeli military actions. Families like that of cybersecurity expert Amir Rashidi have been forced to evacuate high-risk areas following warnings from the Israeli government.

Despite the restrictions, a small number of tech-savvy individuals have managed to circumvent the blackout using virtual private servers or exploiting disruptions in the network. However, for the majority of the population, the complete shutdown of the internet has severely limited their ability to communicate and access crucial information.