Iran VPN usage surges 3,758% amid partial internet restoration and ongoing platform blocks.

Bulgaria experienced a significant surge in VPN traffic this week as the country plunged deeper into political crisis. Following the resignation of President Rumen Radev on January 19,the first such resignation in Bulgaria's post-communist history. Our data shows citizens increasingly turning to privacy tools amid mass protests and governmental instability.

While there have been no confirmed reports of widespread internet blackouts, the spike suggests growing public anxiety over digital privacy, potential information controls, or simply a precautionary reaction to the volatile environment

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Uganda imposed a nationwide internet shutdown two days before its Jan 15, 2026 general election after the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) ordered operators to suspend public internet access.​

While connectivity was partially restored by January 19, access to major social media and messaging platforms remained restricted, driving a massive spike in VPN demand as citizens sought to reconnect.

VPN usage in Venezuela spiked 120% following the US capture of Nicolás Maduro. See the data, the timeline of Operation Absolute Resolve, and how citizens bypassed censorship.

Russia blocked Roblox, Snapchat, and FaceTime, cutting off 18 million users. VPN connections surged 270% as users sought workarounds. Similar restrictions could happen again. Anywhere, anytime.

Australia will become the first country to ban social media for everyone under 16, with fines of up to $49.5 million for platforms that fail to comply. While the government cites child safety, privacy experts warn of data risks from mandatory age checks. Similar restrictions could spread globally. Anywhere, anytime.

Russia restricted WhatsApp and Telegram access starting October 20, 2025, affecting 34 regions including Moscow and St. Petersburg by October 22. Nearly 100 million users face partial blocks on messaging and calls as Roskomnadzor claims the apps enable 'fraud and terrorism. Digital restrictions are tightening. Anywhere, anytime.

Afghanistan blocked Facebook, Instagram, X, and other social media platforms on October 7, 2025, following a 48-hour total internet blackout that left 43 million Afghans completely offline. While internet was restored, social media restrictions remain indefinite as the Taliban cites 'immoral content' concerns. Similar shutdowns could happen again. Anywhere, anytime

Cameroon disrupted internet access on October 22, 2025, as protests erupted over disputed presidential election results. While authorities blamed submarine cable damage, the timing coincided with mass demonstrations against alleged electoral fraud. Similar restrictions could happen again. Anywhere, anytime.

Nepal blocked 26 major social media platforms on September 4, 2025, leaving millions cut off from their digital lives. While the ban was eventually lifted after massive protests, similar restrictions could happen again. Anywhere, anytime.