While it is one thing to stress about losing important information and data on your computer or handheld device, it is quite another to be completely restricted in what you can do with those devices and your personal data. In Iran, restrictions are a tough challenge for the people of the nation and something that many of us don’t have to deal with or even think about.
Iran undoubtedly is a conservative establishment, but no one expected the banning of Instagram which was set in place last week. Now it should really come as no surprise as the nation is already banned from using the likes of WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter. Unfortunately those who already make use of these social media platforms in Iran are soon to find themselves restricted as Iran’s Ministry of Communications views social media as a threat. Officials are cracking down on all the “back alley” routes to connecting to these sites and ensuring that the people or Iran comply more strictly.
On Friday a statement was released to the public to say that the Iranian court had ruled in favour of banning Instagram as it is a form of privacy invasion. Of course not everyone is overjoyed with the rulings in Iran. In fact, recently when other social media platforms were banned, Islamic women took to the streets in protest without their hijabs and posted pictures on Facebook – an offence which is punishable with imprisonment!
While Iran faces great changes when it comes to social media and how the nation shares information and data, we are forced to think about how much we take our liberties and social media freedom for granted!
The question begs to be answered; how much longer can the Iranian government monitor and limit their nation before it results in all out revolt? Are the leaders of Iran playing with fire, or are they justified in their rulings? What are your thoughts? We would love to hear from you!