Internet Access Becomes Luxury for Select Groups in Iran

Tiered Connectivity in Iran

Amid an ongoing internet blockade in Iran, a tiered system of connectivity has emerged that limits web access to select groups. While the general population faces widespread outages, access to a service known as "Internet-Pro" remains available to specific individuals and groups for a fee,.

Reports indicate that access to information and communication is increasingly becoming a luxury reserved for those who can afford it or meet specific criteria,. This creates a divide where a small minority can bypass the restrictions that affect the rest of the country.

Scale of the Blackout

Iran is currently experiencing the longest internet blackout ever recorded. According to reports, approximately 99% of the population has been left offline during this period.

Some users have maintained connectivity through what is described as "white internet," allowing them to stay connected throughout the duration of the blackout. This selective access persists despite the severity of the government-imposed restrictions.

History of Disruptions

The current internet shutdown has lasted for more than 80 days, marking it as the longest such event in the history of the country. However, this is not an isolated incident.

For years, the Iranian security apparatus has utilized internet shutdowns as a method to disrupt communication between Iranian citizens and to sever ties with the outside world.