Friday, January 28, 2011

Syria Internet Disrupted As Egypt Blackout Catches On In Middle East

Syria Internet Disrupted As Egypt Blackout Catches On In Middle East: Reports

Syria Internet Down
First Posted: 01/28/11 10:18 AM Updated: 01/28/11 10:48 AM

On the same day that Egypt has suspended online activity, Syria has also blocked internet service, according to reports.
Syria is known for a tight control of the internet, which was tightened further after the unrest in Tunisia, reports Reuters. Now, Al Arabiya is reporting that internet services have gone down completely in the country. Previously, Syria had blocked programs that "allow access to Facebook Chat from cellphones," according to Reuters.
Egypt's online services have reportedly been down since last night as the country's deadly protests continued into what was planned as the largest day so far.
Facebook has reportedly been blocked in Egypt for days, before which it was being used as a key tool for organizers. It was also used by the successful revolutionaries in Tunisia, raising concerns among other nations that it posed a threat.
UPDATE (10:32EST) Al Arabiya is reporting that a Syrian official has denied the internet service is down.
UPDATE: Reports are emerging that the Internet is not down in Syria, although the previous service disruptions are in place.
This is a developing story. More to come.

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