PARIS: Iran's latest internet blackout has lasted more than 14 days, connectivity monitor Netblocks said Friday. VPN or other internet servicesVirtual private networks (VPNs) – widely-used services that encrypt internet traffic – cannot create an internet connection where none is available. Iranians suspected of using VPNs since the war began have received warning text messages claiming to be from the authorities. Offering techniques including disguising users' data as different types of internet traffic, Psiphon "is able to evade detection more successfully", data and insights director Keith McManamen told AFP. With up to six million unique daily users in Iran before the latest internet shutdown, connections are now fewer than 100,000.

Source: The Star March 17, 2026 14:05 UTC