Understanding NetBlocks: A Watchdog for Internet Freedom
NetBlocks is a prominent watchdog organization dedicated to monitoring cybersecurity and the governance of the Internet. Founded in 2017, the organization plays a crucial role in observing and reporting on Internet freedom, particularly during times of crisis and censorship events[1].
Key Projects and Initiatives
NetBlocks is known for its original reporting on Internet governance and the economic impacts of network disruptions. The organization has developed several tools and initiatives to support its mission:
- Internet Shutdown Observatory: This initiative monitors global internet disruptions and provides real-time data on internet shutdowns, helping to highlight issues of censorship and restricted access[3].
- Cost of Shutdown Tool (COST): Developed in partnership with the Internet Society, this tool estimates the economic impact of internet shutdowns, mobile data blackouts, and social media restrictions. It aims to provide governments and companies with data-driven insights into the financial losses associated with internet disruptions[3].
Notable Events and Reporting
NetBlocks has been instrumental in monitoring and reporting on significant internet censorship events worldwide:
- During the 2018–2019 Sudanese protests, NetBlocks reported on the extensive censorship regime maintained by the Sudanese government[1].
- In Venezuela, NetBlocks monitored the censorship incidents during the presidential crisis, providing crucial data that was covered by international media[1].
- The organization also documented internet disruptions in Iran during protests against rising fuel prices, showcasing its ability to provide real-time updates during critical events[4].
Partnerships and Collaborations
NetBlocks collaborates with various organizations to enhance its reporting capabilities. A notable partnership is with Surfshark, a cybersecurity company. This collaboration aims to improve reporting on internet shutdowns and promote internet freedom globally. Together, they address issues such as IP restrictions and social media service shutdowns, which are often used by oppressive regimes to control public sentiment[2].
Conclusion
NetBlocks stands at the forefront of advocating for digital rights and an open internet. Through its innovative tools and strategic partnerships, it continues to shed light on the economic and social impacts of internet disruptions, striving for a more transparent and inclusive digital future for all.
Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NetBlocks [2] https://netblocks.org/news/netblocks-and-surfshark-join-forces-for-greater-reporting-on-internet-freedom-xAGKKEAz [3] https://www.internetsociety.org/news/press-releases/2018/netblocks-and-the-internet-society-launch-tool-to-calculate-the-cost-of-internet-censorship-worldwide/ [4] https://netblocks.org/reports/internet-disrupted-in-iran-on-anniversary-of-fuel-protests-zA4nzlyR [5] https://github.com/ntblk [6] https://nethustler.com/how-to-start-a-blog/ [7] https://netblocks.org/press [8] https://netblocks.org