NextFin news, On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan restricted mobile access to popular social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat across the country. This move was implemented to control the flow of information and regulate content accessible to Afghan mobile users.
The decision was announced by the Taliban's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, which stated that the restrictions aim to prevent the spread of content deemed inappropriate or harmful to the social and cultural fabric of Afghanistan. The ministry emphasized the need to monitor and manage social media platforms to align with the government's policies and values.
Mobile users in Afghanistan reported difficulties accessing these platforms starting Wednesday morning, with many unable to load the apps or websites on their devices. Internet service providers confirmed that the restrictions were enforced at the network level, affecting millions of mobile subscribers nationwide.
The Taliban's move follows previous efforts to regulate internet usage and social media in Afghanistan, where concerns over misinformation, security, and cultural sensitivity have prompted tighter controls. The government has expressed intentions to maintain social order and prevent content that could incite unrest or contradict Islamic principles.
International observers and human rights organizations have raised concerns about the impact of such restrictions on freedom of expression and access to information for Afghan citizens. However, the Taliban government maintains that these measures are necessary for national security and cultural preservation.
The restrictions currently apply only to mobile access, with no official statement regarding access via other internet means such as fixed broadband. The situation remains fluid as the government continues to evaluate its internet governance policies.
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