NetBlocks metrics confirm the restriction of multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Viber and YouTube in Sri Lanka after midnight on Sunday 3 April 2022 local time.
The incident comes as the government declares a state of emergency, imposing curfews to counter widespread protests over the economic crisis.Real-time network data show that the restrictions are coming into effect across multiple providers around midnight, corroborating user reports of unavailability on leading network providers.
Sri Lanka has a history of nationwide social media restrictions.
Earlier, NetBlocks tracked a significant decline in connectivity levels on leading internet provider Dialog.
The platforms can be accessed indirectly through the use of VPN services, which can work around government-imposed internet restrictions.The platforms can be accessed indirectly through the use of VPN services, which can work around government-imposed internet restrictions.
⚠️ Confirmed: Real-time network data show Sri Lanka has imposed a nationwide social media blackout, restricting access to platforms including Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram as emergency is declared amid widespread protests.
📰 Report: https://t.co/XGvXEFIqom pic.twitter.com/KEpzYfGKjV
— NetBlocks (@netblocks) April 2, 2022