internet restrictions Archives

AppWizard

April 7, 2026

Apple removes Jack Dorsey’s P2P messenger Bitchat from China App Store

Apple has removed Jack Dorsey's decentralized peer-to-peer messaging service, Bitchat, from its China App Store following a request from the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC). The app's beta version was also suspended in the region. Dorsey confirmed that Bitchat was removed in February, and Apple stated that all apps must comply with local laws and regulations. The CAC noted that Bitchat violated regulations requiring online services that can influence public opinion to undergo a security assessment. Bitchat remains available in other countries, with over 3 million downloads on Chrome and more than 1 million on Google Play.

AppWizard

April 6, 2026

China Blocked Jack Dorsey’s Decentralized Messenger bitchat

Chinese authorities have ordered the removal of Jack Dorsey’s decentralized messaging app, bitchat, from the local App Store due to concerns about its potential to disrupt information control during civil unrest. Apple complied by removing both the main and beta versions of the app. The app remains accessible outside of China. Dorsey stated that the removal reflects bitchat's influence on public discourse. The Chinese regulator cited violations of regulations that require online services capable of swaying public opinion to undergo security reviews before launch. Bitchat operates independently of traditional internet infrastructure using Bluetooth and mesh networking technology, making it resistant to censorship. It has gained attention in regions with internet restrictions and was introduced in July 2025. Bitchat has over 3 million downloads, with more than 92,000 in the past week and over 1 million installs on Google Play. Additionally, Block, the parent company, recently reduced its workforce by about 40%, equating to around 4,000 employees, due to AI implementation and process optimization.

AppWizard

April 1, 2026

Russia’s Max Messenger Down Amid Efforts to Curb Telegram

Max, a state-run messaging application in Russia, is facing operational challenges as authorities increase efforts to restrict access to Telegram. Users have reported issues such as the app failing to launch, inability to send or receive messages, and loss of chat histories. Complaints have primarily come from major cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. This is the second outage for Max within three days, with the previous disruption on March 30. Despite being marketed as a reliable alternative, the app's reliability is questioned as Roskomnadzor plans to block Telegram on April 1. Over 6,600 complaints regarding Telegram were documented in the past 24 hours, with accessibility reportedly reduced to around 30%. Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, criticized the government's actions as an attempt to force citizens to use Max, which he claims is designed for surveillance and political censorship. The situation stems from Roskomnadzor's intention to block Telegram, first announced on February 10, following a complete ban on WhatsApp and other restricted platforms.

TrendTechie

March 14, 2026

МТС начал взимать ежедневную плату за использование VPN

MTS, a major mobile operator in Russia, has reclassified virtual private networks (VPNs) as equivalent to torrent services, imposing a daily fee of up to 87 rubles for users who wish to engage in private browsing. Traffic routed through VPNs will no longer be included in standard service packages, leading to additional charges for accessing blocked resources or securing connections. The new tariff structure charges users based on their region and plan, with fees ranging from 80 to 87 rubles per day for a quota of five gigabytes of specialized traffic. Users can block this service to avoid charges, resulting in the complete unavailability of VPN connections. This policy is seen as a response to pressures for new monetization strategies and aligns with government efforts to limit internet circumvention. The potential for other major telecom operators to adopt similar practices could impact net neutrality in Russia.

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

WhatsApp says Russia has tried to fully block the messaging app

Russia has moved to block WhatsApp entirely within its borders, aiming to redirect users to MAX, a state-supported messaging application criticized for its potential surveillance capabilities. This action is part of a broader strategy by the Russian government to tighten control over digital communication, following previous restrictions on major social media platforms and other messaging services like Signal and Viber. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that WhatsApp could be unblocked if it complies with Russian law. The government is also planning new restrictions on Telegram, which has been vital for military communications in Ukraine. MAX, the promoted national messaging app, lacks end-to-end encryption and is designed to share user data with authorities.

AppWizard

October 1, 2025

Here’s why VPN interest has surged 7,000% in 2025

Demand for VPN services is increasing significantly, with a projected surge expected by 2025. Recent research indicates a 7000% increase in VPN usage this year, driven by new laws and social media restrictions in various countries. Notable increases in VPN interest include: - Nepal: +2,892% (social media bans amid civil unrest) - United Kingdom: +1,987% (online age verification requirement) - United States: +827% (social media bans) - Iran: +707% (internet restrictions due to protests) - France: +570% (online age verification requirement) - Turkey: +188% (social media bans) - India: +72% (Pakistan content ban) In the U.S., interest rose due to a temporary TikTok ban in January 2025, with ongoing discussions about mandatory ID verification for adult content access in some states. Historically, VPNs have been essential for bypassing censorship and maintaining communication in conflict regions, as seen in Nepal and Iran.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

Russia restricts calls via WhatsApp and Telegram, the latest step to control the internet

Russian authorities have announced partial restrictions on calls made through Telegram and WhatsApp, citing concerns about crime and misuse of these platforms. Roskomnadzor claims these messaging services are used for deception, extortion, and terrorist activities. The government has expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from the platform owners regarding countermeasures. Recent reports indicate users are experiencing difficulties with calls on these applications. WhatsApp had over 96 million monthly users and Telegram had more than 89 million in Russia as of July. In Crimea, cellphone internet shutdowns may last indefinitely, and a new law penalizes users for accessing illicit content. A new national messaging app, MAX, is being developed by VK, a Russian company. Access to calls via WhatsApp and Telegram could be restored if the platforms comply with Russian laws, but current restrictions only apply to audio calls.

Tech Optimizer

July 29, 2025

Surfshark One Review

Surfshark has launched Surfshark One, a comprehensive security suite that includes a VPN, antivirus software, a data leak detection system, and a private search engine. Surfshark One features over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. The antivirus component offers real-time protection and was awarded 'Top Product' by AV-TEST in June 2024 for a 100% detection rate against advanced malware. Surfshark Alert notifies users of data breaches involving sensitive information, while Surfshark Search provides an ad-free, private browsing experience. Users can choose from various plans, with competitive pricing and a seven-day free trial available. The interface is user-friendly and supports multiple devices, allowing protection for up to five devices per account. The antivirus continuously monitors devices, and users can conduct on-demand scans or schedule them. Surfshark's VPN offers features like NoBorders mode, Dynamic MultiHop, and a built-in speed test. Additional features include the Alternative ID for managing online personas and the option for a dedicated IP address for an extra fee. However, some features like a password manager and parental controls are not included.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

Beware – Iran-linked fake VPN apps found to spy on Android users

Researchers have identified a new spyware campaign targeting Iranian users of Android VPN applications, specifically a revamped version of DCHSpy, which disguises itself as legitimate VPN services like Starlink. This campaign began shortly after the Israel-Iran conflict and coincided with increased VPN usage among Iranians facing internet restrictions. DCHSpy can collect sensitive user data, including WhatsApp messages, contacts, SMS, files, location information, call logs, and has the ability to record audio and capture images. The spyware is maintained by the hacking group MuddyWater, linked to Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security, and has been enhanced with new functionalities. Malicious VPN services EarthVPN and ComodoVPN are being used to spread the malware, following the previous use of HideVPN. Experts warn that hackers are distributing malicious APKs through trusted platforms like Telegram, increasing risks for Iranian citizens. Security analyst Azam Jangrevi advises caution when downloading apps, recommending verified app stores and mobile security solutions to detect threats like DCHSpy. For high-risk professionals, she suggests using hardware-based security keys and vetted encrypted messaging applications.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Bitchat beta launched by Jack Dorsey: Find out how the bluetooth-based app will potentially rival WhatsApp

Jack Dorsey has launched a decentralized messaging application named Bitchat, which operates exclusively over Bluetooth technology and does not require internet connections, phone numbers, or centralized servers. The app is currently in beta on TestFlight and emphasizes user privacy by encrypting communications that are ephemeral and stored only on users' devices. Bitchat allows for the creation of Bluetooth mesh networks to relay messages between devices, even extending beyond typical Bluetooth range. It features password-protected group chats and a store-and-forward option for offline messaging. Future updates will incorporate Wi-Fi Direct to improve network speed and range. Bitchat reflects Dorsey's commitment to decentralization in digital services and is designed to maintain connectivity in situations of internet outages or restrictions.