How Iran's internet shutdown is hurting already ailing businesses

"Iranians have been struggling for nearly two weeks with the longest, most comprehensive internet shutdown in the history of the Islamic Republic - one that has not only restricted their access to information and the outside world, but is also throttling many businesses that rely on online advertising. Authorities shut down internet access on Jan. 8 as nationwide protests led to a brutal crackdown that activists say has killed over 4,000 people, with more feared dead."

"The protests, which appear to have halted under a bloody suppression by authorities, began Dec. 28 over Iran's rial currency falling to over 1.4 million to $1. Ten years ago, the rial traded at 32,000 to $1. Before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, it traded at 70 to $1. The currency's downward spiral pushed up inflation, increasing the cost of food and other daily necessities."

A nearly two-week nationwide internet shutdown in Iran has restricted access to information and the outside world while throttling businesses reliant on online advertising. Authorities cut connectivity on Jan. 8 as nationwide protests prompted a brutal crackdown that activists say killed over 4,000 people. Connectivity has been minimal, with recent restoration limited to some domestic websites and partial Google search function but most search results remain inaccessible. Officials have given no timeline for full restoration, fueling business fears and economic uncertainty. Small businesses that relied on Instagram and Telegram report drastic revenue losses amid a collapsing rial and rising inflation.

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