Tehran is intensifying efforts to suppress dissent as protests continue across the country, with a renewed focus on controlling internet access. Authorities are actively seeking to dismantle networks providing uncensored connectivity, particularly those utilizing SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service, as citizens attempt to bypass a government-imposed blackout. The crackdown highlights the critical role internet access plays in both facilitating protests and enabling the Iranian government to control the narrative.
The restrictions on communication are not merely about limiting access to information. they directly impede the ability of protesters to organize, coordinate, and share information about demonstrations. Encrypted messaging apps and platforms are vital tools for mobilizing rallies, disseminating protest locations, and issuing calls to action. Without these channels, coordinated resistance becomes significantly more difficult.
Individuals are taking considerable risks to maintain access. One man, speaking to the BBC, described operating a clandestine internet service, selling gigabytes of data via the Telegram messaging app for around $6 (£4.50) – a substantial sum in a country where average monthly salaries range from $200 to $300 (£151-226). He recounted a tense moment even as traveling through a Tehran tunnel checkpoint, fearing discovery of his equipment. “What I do as a job is considered a crime in the Islamic Republic,” he explained. “I was really worried, because I had my laptop and phone with me. Luckily, they didn’t search the taxi.”
The Iranian government’s efforts to control the flow of information have led to arrests. On March 12th, police in the Fars Province arrested a 37-year-old man accused of establishing a network to sell “unfiltered” internet access through Starlink, according to a report from the semi-official Mehr News Agency. Authorities reportedly seized a Starlink device and related equipment from the suspect’s location. The Deputy Commander of the Fars Province Police stated the man had extended his network across multiple provinces.
Starlink Access and Penalties
Using Starlink in Iran carries significant legal consequences, with a potential punishment of up to two years in prison. Despite this risk, demand for the service remains high, and authorities have reportedly been actively searching for Starlink dishes to disrupt connections. SpaceX has reportedly made Starlink free for Iranian users in response to the internet shutdowns, a move that has been crucial for many seeking to connect with the outside world. NBC News reported on January 15, 2026, that Starlink had become a “crucial lifeline” for Iranians.
Government Response and Concerns About Security
Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on March 10th that authorities are working to restore internet access, specifically “for those who can broadcast the country’s voice to the world.” This statement suggests a potential easing of restrictions, but also raises concerns about potential government control over the restored access. Reuters reported on January 17, 2026, that Iran is employing jammers and fake GPS signals to disrupt Starlink connections.
While Iranian domestic apps remain available, some users express concerns about their security compared to encrypted platforms for organizing protests. The BBC reported that individuals are wary of the potential for surveillance on domestic networks.
What’s Next?
The situation remains fluid, with the Iranian government continuing to grapple with widespread protests and the challenge of controlling information flow. The effectiveness of the crackdown on Starlink and other uncensored internet access points will likely determine the future trajectory of the protests. Continued efforts to circumvent government restrictions, coupled with the potential for further arrests, suggest a prolonged struggle for access to information and freedom of expression within Iran.
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