Iran: Citizens face internet blackouts with decentralized tools

GasFeeVictim · 2026-02-13T07:17:23+00:00

The collapse of the Iranian currency has triggered massive protests and internet outages. Citizens have turned to obfuscation tools to maintain connectivity, while disruptions have caused severe economic losses and humanitarian complications.

GasFeeVictim

2026-02-13 07:17:23

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In recent weeks, the collapse of Iran’s national currency has sparked massive protests sweeping across the country. In response to this crisis, the government has implemented widespread internet blackouts, leaving millions of citizens disconnected and vulnerable. However, Iranians have found alternative ways to maintain their connectivity.

The Context: Economic Crisis and Intensified Digital Censorship

The rapid depreciation of the national currency has generated unprecedented social unrest. Authorities, under pressure, have carried out strategic internet shutdowns as a control mechanism during the disturbances. According to reports from NS3.AI, this digital repression aims to fragment communication among protesters and limit the dissemination of information about the events.

Decentralized Networks: Citizens’ Response

In the face of these restrictions, Iranians are increasingly turning to obfuscation tools that bypass government filters. Among the most used are:

Decentralized VPNs: Virtual private networks without centralized servers
Shadowsocks: Proxy software that disguises data traffic
V2Ray: Multi-layer tunneling tool to avoid detection
Starlink and Satellites: Satellite connectivity systems that escape local jurisdiction

These solutions have become virtually essential for any citizen seeking secure communications during the outages.

The Economic Cost of Disconnection

Internet blackouts have caused significant economic losses extending beyond the tech sector. Small businesses, financial institutions, and essential services have suffered major operational disruptions. The inability to verify real-time information has complicated victim documentation and hampered humanitarian organizations’ work, with estimates indicating thousands affected by the unrest.

The battle for connectivity in Iran reflects a broader global tension: citizens’ right to communication versus state control over information.

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