How to countries block an website for the entire country?
Countries can block websites for the entire country by implementing internet censorship measures. Internet censorship refers to the control or suppression of what can be accessed, published, or viewed on the internet. This censorship can be applied to specific internet domains or may extend to all internet resources located outside the jurisdiction of the censoring state.
Governments may employ various methods to block websites at a national level, including:
Domain Name System (DNS) Blocking: Authorities can instruct internet service providers to block specific domain names, preventing users from accessing websites with banned domain names.
IP Address Blocking: This involves blocking the IP addresses of specific websites, making it impossible for users within the country to access those sites.
Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): DPI allows authorities to monitor and filter internet traffic based on the content of data packets. Through DPI, governments can identify and block specific websites or web content.
URL Filtering: Governments can use URL filtering to prevent access to specific web addresses.
Internet Service Provider (ISP) Blocking: Governments can order ISPs to block access to certain websites, preventing users within the country from reaching those sites.
It's important to note that these methods can have implications for freedom of expression and access to information. Regulations and practices related to internet censorship can vary greatly from country to country, and they are often subject to ongoing debate and scrutiny.
en.wikipedia.org
sitepoint.com
townsendcenter.berkeley.edu
Which methods does the USA use?
In the United States, internet censorship is generally limited due to strong protections for freedom of speech and expression provided by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. As a result, government-mandated technical filtering is not prevalent.
The internet in the United States is highly regulated, supported by a complex set of legally binding and privately mediated mechanisms. Despite ongoing debates over content regulation, the country is still far from reaching political consensus on the acceptable limits of free speech and the best means of protecting minors and policing illegal activity on the internet.
While the United States may have limited government-mandated technical filtering, there might be instances where private entities, such as internet service providers or content hosts, implement their own content restrictions or filtering mechanisms based on their internal policies and legal obligations. However, these measures are generally not on a national scale and are largely driven by the policies decisions of private entities.
It's important to note that content restriction and filtering methods in the United States are subject to public resistance and ongoing debate, and there is a focus on the protection of free speech and expression.
Therefore, the methods utilized in the USA may primarily involve privately mediated mechanisms and the implementation of internal policies by private entities, rather than extensive government-mandated technical filtering.
en.wikipedia.org
internetsociety.org
currentware.com
Has the USA ever blocked a website, and if so, which of the methods you first mentioned did the USA use to block the website?
In the context of geoblocking, where website operators and internet traffic managers deny access to users based on their location, it's important to note that this form of blocking isn't necessarily initiated by the government. Instead, it's often implemented by private entities based on various factors, such as compliance with federal economic sanctions, privacy laws, or operational convenience.
When it comes to government-mandated technical filtering, the United States has generally emphasized protections for freedom of speech expression, as provided by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. As a result, extensive government-mandated technical filtering is not prevalent in the United States.
In instances where restrictions occur, they are more likely the result of privately mediated mechanisms and the implementation of internal policies by private entities, such as internet service providers or content hosts, rather than government-led measures.
Therefore if website blocking occurs, it is often a result of private entities implementing geoblocking or other types of access restrictions based on their internal policies and legal obligations, rather than extensive government-mandated technical filtering.
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forbes.com
nbcnews.com
Has the USA ever mandated that ISP's block a specific website? Is so, what was the blocked website called?
Yes, the USA has mandated internet service providers (ISPs) to block specific websites in the past. For example, under Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and the Protect IP Act (PIPA), there were attempts to introduce legislation that would have allowed the government to order ISPs to block access to websites accused of facilitating copyright infringement. While these acts were not passed into law, they did generate significant debate and controversy, leading to widespread online protests and discussions about the implications of such measures.
Additionally, USA has used legal actions to enforce website blocking. For instance, in 2012, the Department of Justice seized domain names associated with websites involved in copyright infringement, such as Megaupload. The seizure effectively blocked access to these websites.
It's important to note that while there have been instances of attempted or enforced website blocking, the specific website names, in these cases, may not be focus of widespread public disclosure due to the sensitive nature of the issues involved. Therefore, detailed information about the specific affected by these actions may not be readily available.
time.com
newslaundry.com
theconversation.com
Which method does Russia's government choose to employ when they want to block a website?
The Russian government has implemented several methods to block websites in the. The "sovereign internet" law, enacted in 9, is a significant step that requires internet service providers (ISPs) to install equipment allowing authorities to circumvent providers and automatically block content that has been banned by the government, enabling them to reroute internet traffic themselves. This law grants the government the capability to and block internet content automatically without depending on the cooperation of providers to implement the block.
Additionally, the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology, and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor) is the Russian federal executive agency responsible for monitoring, controlling, and censoring Russian mass media. It enforces with regulations and is involved in blocking websites that do not adhere to the established guidelines.
Moreover, a 2018 law introduced fines for search engines that fail to connect to a government-mandated registry banned websites. This legal framework provides the government with effective tools to enforce blocking.
In summary, the Russian government employs laws and regulations to require ISPs to facilitate website blocking, and it enforces compliance with these measures through the Federal Service for Supervision of, Information Technology, and Mass Media.
hrw.org
en.wikipedia.org
wired.com
Which method does China's government choose to employ when they want to block a website?
The Chinese government employs a range of methods to block websites and control access within the country. The most notable method is the "Great Firewall of China" (GFW), which is a combination of actions and technologies designed to regulate the internet domestically. The G operates by monitoring and scanning transmission control protocol (TCP) packets for or sensitive words. If these keywords or sensitive words are detected, access to the targeted websites is restricted. Additionally, the GFW can also slow down cross-border internet traffic.
Moreover, other methods used to block websites and pages in China include DNS spoofing, blocking access to IP addresses, analyzing and filtering URLs, packet inspection, and resetting connections. These methods collectively contribute to the comprehensive and sophisticated internet censorship implemented by the Chinese government.
In addition to these technical measures, the government also enforces a real-name system and requires major internet platforms in China to establish elaborate self-censorship mechanisms. As of 2019, more than sixty online restrictions been created and implemented by the Chinese government and provincial branches of state-owned ISPs, companies, and organizations.
Therefore, China's internet censorship strategies include a of technical methods and regulatory measures designed to restrict access to selected foreign websites and control the flow of information within the country.
en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org
cecc.gov
Interesting. If China has 60 online restrictions, how many online restrictions does Russia's government have? Can I get a list of the restrictions in China, and another list of Russia's online restrictions?
I don't have real-time access to the specific number of online restrictions imposed by the Russian government., detailed lists of online restrictions in either China or Russia are not readily available.
China's online restrictions are well documented and include extensive censorship online content, control over social media platforms, and the implementation of the "Great Firewall of China," which blocks access to various foreign websites, apps, and games. The Chinese government also requires major internet platforms to self-censorship mechanisms and a real-name system.
The specific details and extent of Russia's online restrictions may not be as widely publicized. The Russian government has implemented regulations regarding internet usage and content, including measures aimed at monitoring and controlling online and restricting access to certain websites. However, a comprehensive and publicly available list of specific online restrictions in Russia may not be easily accessible.
If you are in the specific online restrictions in either country, it is advisable to refer to official government sources, reputable news outlets, or specialized research reports that focus on internet freedom and censorship in China and Russia.
en.wikipedia.org
hrw.org
freedomhouse.org
What are some of the online rules in Russia?
In Russia, internet censorship is enforced through various laws and mechanisms. Since 2012, Russia has maintained a centralized internet blacklist, known as the "single register," which is maintained by the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor). This list is used to censor individual URLs, domain names, and IP addresses. Initially introduced to block sites containing materials advocating drug abuse, descriptions of suicide methods, and child pornography, it was later amended to allow the blocking of materials classified as by including them on the Federal List of Extremist Materials.
According to Freedom House, these regulations have been frequently abused to block criticism of the federal government or local administrations. Additionally, a law prohibiting "abuse of mass media freedom" implements a process for shutting down of online media outlets.
In March 2019, a bill was passed, introducing fines for those deemed by government to have demonstrated disrespect for government symbols, the constitution, or the authorities of the Russian Federation. Furthermore, new laws and regulations adopted in recent years have expanded the authorities’ capacity to filter and block internet content automatically, no longer depending on providers’ cooperation implement the block. The 2019 “sovereign internet” law requires internet service providers to install equipment allowing to circumvent providers and automatically block content banned by the government, enabling them to reroute internet traffic themselves. These measures significantly tighten control over internet infrastructure, online content, and the privacy of communications. If fully implemented, the new measures will severely undermine the ability of people in Russia to exercise their human rights online, including freedom of expression and freedom of access to information.
These regulations highlight that the Russian government has implemented a comprehensive set of laws and regulations aimed at tightening control over online, internet infrastructure, and the privacy of communications.
en.wikipedia.org
hrw.org
hrw.org
Who are some of the entities listed on Russia's Federal List of Extremist Materials?
Some of the entities listed on Russia's Federal List of Extremist Materials may include organizations, groups, or materials that have been classified or designated as promoting extremist activities or ideologies by the Russian government. As access to the specific details of entities listed on the Federal List of Extremist Materials is restricted and may change over time, accessing the comprehensive and up-to-date list of these entities is likely to require referring directly to official government sources or established reputable news outlets.
, the designation or classification of entities on the Federal List of Extremist Materials may be subject to evolving legal processes, and specific information about entities listed may not be publicly disclosed. For accurate and current details, it is advisable to consult official Russian government sources or reliable international reports on extremist activities in Russia.
hrw.org
home.treasury.gov
simple.wikipedia.org
Do we know of any organizations on Russia's "Federal List of Extremist Materials", or not?
Based on the information available, there are specific references to individuals, such as those connected to religious organizations like Jehovah's Witnesses, being included on a new register of people allegedly connected to "extremism" in Russia. This indicates a focus on individuals rather than organizations in this context. While details about specific organizations listed on Russia's "Federal List of Extremist Materials" are not explicitly provided in the available information, it is important to note that religious groups, including Jehovah's Witnesses, have faced challenges in Russia due to their designation as "extremist" organizations. This is a complex and sensitive issue that may require consulting official governmental sources or credible international reports for a comprehensive list of entities on the "Federal List of Extremist Materials."
forum18.org
therussianreader.com
en.wikipedia.org
Are there any Mormons in Russia?
Yes, there are Mormons present in Russia. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has had a presence Russia for many years, with the first baptisms occurring in 1895. The LDS Church involvement in Russia predates the Soviet Union, and membership increased in the 1990s and early 2000s. The church was officially recognized by the Russian government in 1991, and missionary efforts began before the dissolution of the Soviet Union. However, the 2016 Yarovaya law has impacted efforts by prohibiting proselytizing outside of official church premisesIt's worth noting that beyond the official LDS Church, there have been rumors and claims of long-established "Mormon" communities in Russia, particularly among Siberians and villages around Orenburg and Samara, as reported by missionaries and. These communities do not necessarily have a direct affiliation with the LDS Church, but the presence of Mormons in Russia extends beyond the official church's activities.
byustudies.byu.edu
en.wikipedia.org
newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org
Does Russia have a list of "Unfriendly countries" or "Unfriendly groups" available online?
Yes, Russia has a list of "Unfriendly countries" that has been published by the Russian government. The unfriendly countries list is a set of nations that Russia has deemed to have committed unfriendly actions against Russia, Russian companies, and citizens. The list was first published in May 2021 with the United States and the Czech Republic as initial inclusions. However, following the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and the subsequent international sanctions imposed against Russia, the list has been expanded to include 49 states.
The countries included on the "Unfriendly countries" list are subjected to various restrictions related to their relationships with Russia. These restrictions can involve trade and currency restrictions, as well as limitations on personnel in the listed countries' diplomatic missions in Russia.
As of now, the "Unfriendly countries" list includes countries such as Albania, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Poland, and many others.
This list is publicly available and has been regularly updated to reflect changes in Russia's international relationships.
en.wikipedia.org
russia-briefing.com
themoscowtimes.com
Can you give me a more tech savvy explanation of how internet censorship in Russia works?
Internet censorship in Russia works through a combination of legislative measures and controls. Since the advent of the sovereign internet law in 2019, Russia has significantly enhanced its capacity to control and restrict internet access within its borders. The law provides authorities with the legal means to block access to websites and online services for Russian users, allowing them to isolate the Russian segment of the internet from the global network.
The implementation of internet censorship in Russia involves advanced technical capabilities that enable the state to block and control access to specific online content. It leverages deep packet inspection and domain name system (DNS) manipulation to selectively filter and block traffic. Additionally, internet service providers (ISPs) are required to install hardware and software that facilitate government-controlled filtering and surveillance, enabling the authorities to monitor, control, and potentially censor online communications and activities.
Moreover Russia's internet censorship regime includes measures to restrict the dissemination of information deemed undesirable by the. This includes the blocking of independent media websites and the imposition of fines and penalties on online platforms that fail to comply with government regulations.
The sovereign internet law and subsequent regulations have thus established a comprehensive framework for internet, reflecting Russia's commitment to exercising strict control over online content and communication. These measures not only limit to information but also underscore the ongoing evolution of Russia's technology-enabled censorship and surveillance infrastructure.
wired.com
google.com
What are some examples of times Russia's government has abused the sovereign internet law for political purposes?
Some instances where Russia's government has been criticized for abusing the sovereign internet law for political purposes include:
Blocking Access to Opposition Websites: The Russian government has been accused of using the sovereign internet law to block access to websites and platforms linked to opposition leaders and movements. This has been seen as a means to stifle dissent and limit access to alternative political viewpoints.
Restricting Independent Media: The law has been used to restrict and censor independent media outlets critical of the government. This has been a cause for concern regarding freedom of the press and access to unbiased information.
Controlling Online Activism: The Russian government has been reported to use the sovereign internet law to monitor and control online activism, leading to limitations on the ability of citizens to express dissent and organize protests.
These instances illustrate how the sovereign internet law has been utilized to suppress political opposition and restrict freedom of expression in Russia.
hrw.org
brookings.edu
apnews.com
What's the difference between "The Global Internet" and National Intranets?
The Global Internet and National Intranets differ significantly in terms of their scope, purpose, and accessibility.
Scope: The Global Internet: The global internet is a worldwide network of interconnected computers and devices that allows individuals and organizations to access vast array of information, services, and resources across international borders. It offers access to a wide range of websites, applications, and online services, and facilitates communication, collaboration, and information sharing on global scale.
Purpose:
3.:
In summary, the global internet fosters a decentralized, open platform for global connectivity, while national intranets are designed to create a controlled online environment within the borders of a specific country, with the aim of asserting state control over online activities and flow.
interactsoftware.com
en.wikipedia.org
geeksforgeeks.org
Can you describe Russia's National Intranet for me?
Russia's National Intranet, often referred to as the "Net," is a walled-garden network maintained by the Russian government as a national substitute for the global Internet. This intranet system is designed to enable the government to closely monitor and control the communications of its inhabitants, as well as restrict their access to outside media. The primary motivation behind the creation of the RuNet is to enhance national security and increase the government's oversight of online activities within Russia.
Similar to national intranets, the RuNet provides access to state-controlled media and national alternatives to foreign-operated Internet services. This includes government-approved search engines, web email platforms, and other online services that are under state supervision. The aim of the network is to exert a comprehensive level of control over information flow and online interactions within the country's borders.
It's worth noting that Russia has announced plans to conduct tests that involve briefly disconnecting from the global Internet to assess the functionality of its national intranet. This initiative indicates the country's commitment to assert its sovereignty over online activities and communications by relying on an intranet system under government supervision.
maketecheasier.com
en.wikipedia.org
wired.com
Which countries choose to use National Intranets instead of the Global Internet?
Some countries have chosen to implement national intranets as alternatives to the global internet in order to exert greater control over online activities and information flow. These national intranets, often maintained by the government, serve as closed networks where access to external information and services is tightly regulated. Examples of countries that have pursued this approach include:
North Korea: North Korea operates Kwangmyong, a national intranet service that is a closed-off network, serving as a substitute for the global internet. Access to external information and online services is restricted, and the government maintains strict control over the content accessible to its citizens.
Iran: Iran has rolled out a national intranet program with the aim of exerting greater control over online activities and enhancing national security by creating a closed, state-supervised network. This initiative allows the government to regulate information flow and restrict access to external content and services.
Cuba: Similar to North Korea and Iran, Cuba has implemented a national intranet system to limit access to the global internet and maintain strict government oversight of online activities and content.
Russia: Russia has initiated plans to disconnect from the global internet temporarily to test its own national intranet system. This move underscores the country's efforts to develop an alternative network under state control, aiming to increase national security and assert sovereignty over online activities.
These countries' decisions to deploy national intranets reflect their objectives of controlling information and increasing national security through the regulation of online activities within their borders.
en.wikipedia.org
maketecheasier.com
en.wikipedia.org
Does China, Syria, and Myanmar also have a National Intranet?
Yes, as per the available information, China, Syria, and have all implemented national intranets as closed, state-controlled networks designed to regulate and monitor online activities within their respective countries. The Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC) oversees domain registry affairs for .cn under the Cyberspace Administration of China, indicative of state involvement in managing internet resources. Similarly, Syria has established a state-controlled intranet for regulating communications and restricting access external media. Additionally, Myanmar previously maintained a separate intranet for domestic use called Myanmar Wide Web, emphasizing its commitment to regulating online content and activities within the country.
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zdnet.com
Do any other countries besides all those you've already mentioned, have their own National Intranet?
Yes, in addition to North Korea, Iran, Cuba, and Russia, are other countries that have national intranets or are in the process of developing similar systems for various reasons. Notably, countries such as China, Syria, and Myanmar have also implemented national intranets to exert control over online communication and information access within their borders. These national intranets are often maintained by the respective governments and serve as closed, state-controlled networks with the aim of regulating and monitoring online activities. The development and proliferation of national intranets reflect the diverse strategies that countries employ to manage and control the flow of information and online interactions within their territories.
maketecheasier.com
en.wikipedia.org
en.wikipedia.org
Who are the major ISP providers in Russia?
Some of the major ISP providers in Russia include:
PJSC Rostelecom: This has a significant number of IPv4 addresses and AS numbers, indicating a substantial presence in the internet service provider space within Russia.
PJSC "Vimpel" (operating under the Beeline brand): With over 5 IPv4 addresses, this provider is one of the major players in the Russian internet service provider market.
JSC "ER-Telecom Holding": With almost 5 million IPv4 addresses and a significant number of AS numbers and prefixes, ER-Telecom Holding is another key ISP provider in Russia.
PJSC MegaFon: This company also holds a substantial number of IPv4 addresses and is a prominent player in the Russian ISP landscape.
These companies play a crucial role in providing internet services to users and businesses across Russia, and their significant allocation of IP indicates their position as major ISP providers in the country.
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db-ip.com
en.wikipedia.org
Who are the major internet providers in the United States?
Some of the major internet service providers (ISPs) in the States include AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Cox, Spectrum and Mediacom. Each of these companies offers a range of internet services, including fiber, cable, and digital subscriber line (DSL), catering to different needs and preferences. These ISPs have a significant presence and provide internet connectivity to a large portion the population across the country. Furthermore, other notable providers such as Astound Broadband, CenturyLink, Frontier, HughesNet, Optimum,iasat, and Suddenlink also play a substantial role in the internet service market in the United States.
usnews.com
cnet.com
statista.com
Who are the major internet providers in Russia?
Some of the major internet service providers in Russia are:
Rostelecom: Rostelecom is a leading provider of fixed broadband internet services in Russia, accounting for a significant portion of subscribers in the B2C segment.
MTS (Mobile TeleSystems): MTS is another major player in Russian internet service provider market, with a notable share of the subscriber base for fixed broadband internet services.
These providers, along with others, contribute to the diverse landscape of internet services available to consumers in Russia.
isp.page
statista.com
statista.com
What are some of the other internet providers in Russia, besides those 2?
I currently don't have access to the most recent and comprehensive information about service providers in Russia. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, I recommend consulting a reliable source such as the Russian government's communication authority or a reputable telecommunications directory. These sources can provide a comprehensive list of internet service providers operating in Russia.
en.wikipedia.org
isp.page
highspeedinternet.com