Iranian officials are issuing SMS warnings to citizens bypassing internet restrictions. The messages target those using VPNs or Starlink to access global web content. This comes amid a near-total internet blackout in the country.
Iran has imposed a near-total internet blackout, prompting many citizens to use virtual private networks (VPNs) and Starlink to regain access to the global web. In response, Iranian authorities have begun sending SMS warnings to individuals detected circumventing these blocks.
The notifications explicitly threaten prosecution for using such tools. According to reports, the authorities are monitoring successful bypass attempts and alerting users directly via text messages. This escalation highlights ongoing efforts to enforce internet restrictions within Iran.
The measures reflect broader controls on online access, though specific details on the blackout's duration or triggers remain limited in available information. No further official statements from Iranian officials were detailed in the coverage.