Iran lawmakers launch motion to block all foreign messaging apps

Iranian lawmakers have proposed a motion to block foreign messaging applications in the country and replace them with local ones, Arab News reported.

If passed, anyone who uses social media messaging apps without an official licence may face up to two years in prison and a fine of $475 to $1,900.

Iran has already banned popular social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Instagram is the only major foreign social media network allowed in the country.

Locals have said they need social media to learn what is happening around the world and bypass the authorities’ strict controls on the news output in the country. In spite of the limitations on the use of social media networks, many Iranians bypass the limits by using proxies or virtual private networks (VPNs), which hide the location of a user.

Iran: Deal possible if US returns to nuclear pact