**Iran Locks Nation into "Darker" Digital Blackout, Viewing Internet as Existential Threat**

The Iranian regime has hardened its digital repression, treating citizens' access to the outside world as a threat to national security, according to digital rights monitors.

Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported that Iran's connectivity landscape had shifted dramatically in recent days, marking 22 consecutive days of unrest following a nationwide internet shutdown. The shutdown began on January 8, amid escalating protests since December 28, with authorities seeking to prevent protesters from organizing, sharing videos of crackdowns, and communicating with the outside world.

According to NetBlocks CEO Alp Toker, Iran is transitioning into a "filternet plus" censorship scheme, where only a handful of services deemed critical for business needs are whitelisted. However, even this selective access is sporadic, leaving ordinary users offline.

"The digital darkness is getting darker because the information controls are getting tighter," Toker explained. "International links were tolerated as a window to trade, but the regime is approaching each of these as potential threats. It sees its citizens' ability to communicate with the rest of the world as an existential threat because the people are disaffected."

The internet blackout has resulted in significant human rights abuses, with at least 2,571 reported deaths and additional deaths not yet fully verified amid the communications blackout.

Iran International reported that the blackout is expected to last until at least late March, with IranWire citing government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani as stating that access to international online services will not be restored before Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, on March 20.

Toker emphasized the importance of internet access for Iranians, which allows them to express themselves and engage in cultural activities banned by the regime. "With the internet blackout continuing, the curtain has been drawn on that window," he said. "This is angering many Iranians, particularly Gen Z, who stand to lose a part of their identity."

**Cyber Incidents Target Iran's State Infrastructure**

The digital blackout coincides with cyber incidents targeting Iran's state infrastructure. Exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi recently spoke out against the regime's actions, calling for an end to the internet shutdown and warning of potential consequences.

"We aren't able to see the specific hack here," Toker explained. "The lack of up-to-date security is an issue for Iran. It is caused directly by the country's digital isolation."

Toker noted that embargoes force widespread use of pirated software, which often contains hidden vulnerabilities that can be exploited to breach critical networks.

**Human Toll**

As protests continue, the human toll mounts. According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 2,571 people have been killed as of Monday, with additional deaths reported but not yet fully verified amid the communications blackout.

The Iranian regime's actions have sparked international condemnation, with many calling for an end to the internet shutdown and greater human rights protections.

**What's Next?**

The future of Iran's digital landscape remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the Iranian regime will continue to crack down on dissent and maintain its grip on power through digital repression.

As tensions escalate, it remains to be seen whether external intervention or internal change can bring an end to this "darker" digital blackout.

**Sources**

* NetBlocks * Iran International * IranWire * Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) * Fox News Digital