Internet shutdowns: Understanding and responding as a journalist

Every year, thousands of internet access shutdowns are reported worldwide, posing a major threat to press freedom, freedom of expression and the right to information. In partnership with the Software Freedom Law Center (SFLC), a defender of free and open source software, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has created an educational video accompanied by practical recommendations for media professionals to better prepare for these shutdowns and ensure they can keep reporting the news.

VIDEO

In Iran, internet access has been heavily restricted, and in some cases completely cut off for several months, creating an information vacuum and preventing journalists from covering events — particularly since the start of the US-Israeli offensive in late February.

In recent months, several other countries have experienced major internet shutdowns. At the end of 2025, the Taliban ordered a nationwide shutdown in Afghanistan. Sri Lanka tightened internet restrictions in 2024. Nepal suspended 26 social media platforms in September 2025, sparking large-scale protests that led to the fall of the government. Cameroon and Tanzania saw significant disruptions to their internet connections during the October 2025 elections.

According to the United Nations, which recorded over 300 government-imposed internet shutdowns in 54 countries over the past two years, these practices directly threaten citizens’ freedom of expression and right to information.

These digital interruptions — which can be total or partial, and are achieved by slowing down networks (sometimes down to 2G) and/or blocking targeted online platforms — severely paralyse online media, hinder the flow of information, and expose citizens to safety risks. 

These shutdown make journalists particularly vulnerable, especially those working remotely or via digital platforms, as the consequences go far beyond technical inconvenience. Their reporting is distrupted, they suffer significant economic losses and their access to essential services is obstructed.

Part 1 – Understanding how an internet shutdown unfolds

1. An official order is issued

• A government authority (state or central administration) issues an order specifying:
  • • The legal basis cited (law or regulation);
    • The official justification (often related to “maintaining public order” or security);
    • The targeted geographic area (city, district, or region).

2. Operators and service providers implement the orders

• Internet service providers and telecom operators are responsible for executing the order. Technical measures may include:
  • • Complete shutdown of mobile data at the network level;
    • Network throttling, limiting bandwidth and making exchanges and content dissemination nearly impossible;
    • Targeted blocking of websites, messaging services and social media, which limits journalists’ communication with sources and the public. Some public VPNs may also be blocked.

3. The duration of the order is extended

• Initially temporary, these measures can be extended by new orders, sometimes lasting several weeks or months.
• Such extensions can turn a temporary shutdown into a prolonged interruption, with increased consequences for media, businesses, and citizens.

Part 2 – Practical recommendations for journalists

1. Before an internet shutdown

• Prepare offline tools and encrypt sensitive documents.
• Prepare alternative channels to communicate with your team and sources (phone, radio, satellite).
• Have a backup phone with no sensitive data installed.
• Install a VPN.

2. During a shutdown or network slowdown

• Identify the type of shutdown: distinguish between bandwidth limitation and a partial or total cutoff.
• Document each incident: the duration, affected area, and its impact on your work and safety.
  • • The online collaborative platform OONI allows easy documentation of blocks via its OONI Probe app.
• Optimise communications: if limited communication is possible, prioritise essential information and reduce file sizes, avoiding video and videoconferencing. 
  • • Use “lite” modes or data-saving modes in your apps if available.
• Avoid installing applications recommended by the authorities imposing the block, as they may serve as surveillance tools.
  • • For example, in Russia, all messaging apps are blocked except Max, which is government-supported.
    • If installing these apps is unavoidable, use a secondary device to isolate risky apps and minimise exposure.
• Monitor network status: regularly test connectivity and stay informed about blocks, which may vary by country and region.
• Systematically back up content: keep at least one copy of all produced material.

3. After access is restored

• Download/upload and secure stored material.
• Retrieve and secure produced content.
• Assess the impact of shutdowns on journalistic work.
• Share feedback with journalist networks and legal teams to strengthen advocacy.

4. Legal actions and advocacy

• Challenge arbitrary shutdowns through legal channels.
• Demand transparency regarding administrative decisions.
• Review the legal basis and procedures used.