The Iranian government has recently broadened the list of individuals and organisations permitted to gain limited access to the internet. This development highlights the fact that the majority of the nation’s population, exceeding 90 million, remains largely disconnected during the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.

This new initiative follows a near-total internet shutdown that was initiated shortly after the commencement of hostilities on February 28. Reports indicate that internet connectivity has plunged to approximately two per cent of its pre-war levels.

While a limited intranet remains operational, frustration among the public is palpable, as the digital blackout has resulted in economic losses amounting to billions of dollars. The situation has also given rise to a burgeoning black market for internet access.

Introduction of Internet Pro Service

Recently, tens of thousands of individuals and enterprises chosen by the authorities based on their roles signed up to access a service termed Internet Pro. This service offers a restricted internet connection, where many websites and global messaging platforms are blocked, but some applications, app stores, and Google services remain functional.

The service operates through 50-gigabyte data packages supplied by three prominent state-affiliated telecommunications firms. Additionally, select offices of approved companies may receive limited internet protocols (IPs) for global connectivity.

To apply, candidates must submit full identification and relevant professional documents. This month, business owners and traders with ties to the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology were some of the first to gain access. Recently, doctors, academics, and researchers were also nominated for this limited access by the Ministry of Science.

Criticism and Public Reaction

Despite long-standing assertions from Iranian authorities opposing a tiered internet structure, the current arrangements effectively render internet access a privilege rather than a universal right. While some state media outlets have rebranded Internet Pro as a necessary service for professional activities, criticism from the public continues to grow.

No significant tiered system was observed during previous internet shutdowns related to a short-lived 12-day conflict in June or a 20-day blackout in January during widespread protests. However, the ongoing extended shutdown has seen a rise in eligible individuals opting for this service.

Many individuals, however, have expressed their discontent through state-run platforms, demanding a full restoration of internet services. On local sites, users have shared their experiences of job loss and disruptions to their daily lives due to the limitations imposed during the shutdown.

Amidst these frustrations, several residents have sought alternative methods to bypass internet restrictions, with some rejecting the tiered system outright, arguing that access to free internet is a fundamental human right. Notably, discussions surrounding circumvention methods have intensified, sparking a debate on the implications of such restrictions on society.

Technical Measures and Future Outlook

Experts have noted that authorities are implementing an increasingly restrictive and centralised internet framework through a national network address translation system. This infrastructure aims to exert greater control over internet traffic and enhance monitoring capabilities.

However, the associated hardware and operational costs may compromise the quality of connections, leading to potential latency issues. Furthermore, reliance on this singular infrastructure could present vulnerabilities for sabotage.

A resident of Tehran, who has acquired Internet Pro on behalf of her mother, a university professor, highlighted that essential platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram remain blocked on this service. The discontent surrounding these limitations reflects a broader call for equitable internet access across all sectors of society.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share