WhatsApp Adds Proxy Support to Keep Users Online During Internet Blocks

Messaging service WhatsApp has added support for a tool to help users stay online when governments block the internet. The company – owned by Facebook’s parent Meta – recently announced it would let users connect to WhatsApp through proxy servers. A proxy acts as a bridge to connect users to the internet through servers in other places. Proxy servers can be set up by individuals or organizations around the world. The proxy system can permit people to be online even when governments have restricted or cut off internet services in their area. In its announcement, WhatsApp said the proxy tool represents an effort to “put the power into people’s hands” to connect to its service if the internet is blocked or restricted. The company said proxy support was launched for WhatsApp users all over the world. In its statement, however, WhatsApp identified Iran as a nation where the government has been blocking the internet for months. Such actions “deny people’s human rights and cut people off from receiving urgent help,” WhatsApp said. Iran’s government has a history of cutting internet and messaging services. In 2018, Iranian officials ordered internet service providers to block messaging service Telegram. At the time, Iran
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