.jpg)
TEHRAN - An internet blackout has been experienced throughout Iran; however, experts think that cryptocurrency transactions can still go on using other technologies like satellite connections, mesh networks and offline crypto tools, thus offering some hope to the population that has been completely isolated from the rest of the world.
This move
by the Iranian government comes at a time when there is increased civil unrest
and international sanctions, which have led to limitations in communication over
the internet, including accessing global financial platforms. Nevertheless,
specialists in blockchain as well as experts in cybersecurity argue that the
decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies enables them to withstand such forms
of state control.
“Even
without traditional internet access, people can still send and receive crypto
using offline methods,” said one blockchain infrastructure engineer. “For
instance, Bitcoin does not rely on a centralised network. All it requires is
some means for transmitting transaction data, which could be done via
satellites or local radio networks.”
How Crypto
Survives When the Internet Doesn’t
During an
internet blackout, one effective way of ensuring that Bitcoin transactions
continue to be broadcast on the blockchain is through Blockstream’s satellite
network. By using this system, Iranians and other individuals living in areas
where internet use is restricted can stay connected to the global Bitcoin
blockchain without having to go through their local ISPs.
Mesh
networking provides another solution whereby devices connect directly with each
other through Bluetooth, radio or Wi-Fi and do not require a centralised
internet connection. In 2019, a Venezuelan initiative known as Locha Mesh
illustrated how Bitcoin transactions might be disseminated via radio
frequencies an invention that could be very important in Iran today.
Moreover,
SMS-based crypto wallets and hardware devices that synchronise transactions
upon reconnection to the internet enable users to keep, exchange, and transfer
digital assets even when they are not online. These advancements demonstrate
that cryptocurrencies differ from conventional banking systems in that they can
function independently of state-controlled infrastructure.
Crypto’s
Role in Economic Resistance
Digital
assets have served as a means of circumventing U.S. sanctions for Iran over
the years, with the regime going to the extent of encouraging Bitcoin mining
for foreign exchange earnings. Nevertheless, when there are massive internet
blackouts, regular Iranians turn to decentralized technologies for purposes of
getting money out, receiving remittances, as well as safeguarding savings from
eroding due to inflation.
Although
not foolproof, analysts believe that crypto’s resistance against severe
censorship underscores its role as an instrument for financial liberation.
“Bitcoin reminds the world that information and money can’t be easily stopped
when governments attempt total control,” commented a crypto researcher.