Internet users in Mon State report that users of Google and Signal apps are facing increased questioning and restrictions from the military junta, limiting their ability to use these services freely.
In recent days, military junta forces in Mawlamyine Township have intensified mobile phone inspections. Users of Signal, VPNs, and Google are subject to fines, arrests, and various methods of blocking communication on social networks.
“If they catch you using Signal, it’s a big problem. They assume you’re communicating with the PDF and involved in the resistance, so you can’t explain anything. Even online sellers have to be careful. If they find something, there’s nothing you can do—either they arrest you or you pay a fine,” said a woman from Mawlamyine.
Previously, Signal app users did not need to connect via VPN, and it was considered more secure than other applications. However, due to accusations of communicating with resistance groups, users have shifted to Telegram.
Additionally, reduced internet speeds have made it difficult to send work-related audio files, download videos, and access news websites and Google. A Mawlamyine resident explained, “With slower internet, it’s hard to access news sites and Google, and work files take a long time to send or download.”
Since late May, the military junta has restricted VPN software usage and continues to make arrests. “You have to delete all your data before going out. Even if they say they won’t arrest you for using a VPN, you can’t trust them. You can say you’re watching movies on Telegram, but in places like Mawtkanin, they check phones almost every day. People have been arrested for photos and videos,” said a resident from Ye.
Observers note that the military junta is deliberately using technology to block independent news sites and social networks, leading to a halt in information flow. The Myanmar Internet Project reports that between 2021 and 2023, the military junta cut off internet access nearly 300 times across the country.
Internet shutdowns have included reducing speeds, blocking popular social media services and websites, and restricting access to frequently used social network media.