Over the years, WhatsApp has become an integral part of our daily lives and it has also transformed the way how we communicate on daily basis. Sending quick messages and video calls to sharing images, documents, and videos, WhatsApp has changed the digital world. The app is also suitable now making international calls that too free. It not just connects families, but also fuels businesses and even powers classroom learning in many parts of the world.
With more than two billion active users globally, it’s safe to say WhatsApp is more than just an app; it’s a daily necessity. Nevertheless, not every country is fond of WhatsApp and in fact there are some countries that banned or heavily restricted WhatsApp.
The reasons behind these bans vary including from concerns over national security and control of information to economic protectionism and censorship of encrypted communication. In this article, we will delve into what are the countries that has banned WhatsApp and why they have banned the most popular app in the world.
China
China is one of the most prominent countries where WhatsApp is banned and hence you cannot use the app if you are in the country. The ban was first partially implemented in 2017 and later the government made it a full scale restriction. One of the main reasons behid the ban is that China has tight control over the internet and digital communication. The country promotes its own platform called WeChat.
North Korea
The access to the internet in North Korea is non-existent and hence ordinary citizens are not allowed to use WhatsApp. Not just WhatsApp, almost all international communication apps are banned outright in North Korea. The country has strict control over all the information, sources, and more.
Only a select few government officials and elites have access to the full internet and even they are closely monitored.
Iran
Another country that doesn’t allow using WhatsApp and banned the app is Iran. The country has a complicated relationship with apps like WhatsApp. While the app is not permanently banned, but it has often faced temporary restrictions, especially during times o political unrest.
The government has shut down WhatsApp access during protests or elections in an effort to curb the flow of information and prevent mobilization through digital communication.
Syria
Syria is another country where WhatsApp is banned, especially in areas that are under government control. Additionally, the overall internet system, apps, and everything related to internet are heavily monitored and encrypted apps like WhatsApp are often seen as a loophole in the digital system.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Unlike a full ban, the UAE allows WhatsApp text messaging but blocks its voice and video calling features.
Qatar and Oman
Similar to the UAE, countries like Qatar and Oman do not allow VoIP services like WhatsApp calling, though messaging functions typically remain intact.
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