Avast, ye mateys! Yo ho ho! Iran be unveilin' a newfangled app, makin' folks shiver in their boots over privacy concerns!
2023-12-18
Avast ye, mateys! With Iran's dubious past, be them experts warnin' us that this security measure might be naught but a spyglass. Arr, what be the consequences for them Iranians, ye reckon?
Iranian authorities have announced the development of a new mobile antivirus software called Farez, which they plan to make mandatory for all citizens. Farez is designed to scan devices for malware and block any malicious apps. However, there are concerns that this could be used as a tool for censorship and surveillance.Azam Jangravi, an information security analyst and women's rights advocate, has expressed concerns about the government using Farez to filter content deemed inappropriate. This is not unfounded, as Iran has a history of implementing similar mandatory software, such as SmartFilter, to block access to unlawful or inappropriate websites.
Iran has increasingly used technology as a tool of control, with internet disruptions and restrictions on social media platforms. There are fears that Farez could be used for surveillance, as Iranian authorities have been known to develop mobile spying systems and spread malware through fake VPN apps.
People's reactions to Farez have been divided, with some welcoming the security measure and others worried about the misuse of the software. The lack of transparency about how Farez determines dangerous applications and the logistics of mandating the software on all devices have also raised concerns.
To stay private in Iran, Jangravi advises against installing apps like Farez and being cautious about sharing information online. She recommends using a reliable VPN to encrypt internet traffic and hide online activities from the government. Iran has enforced VPN censorship, so it may be necessary to use different apps to bypass blocks.
Overall, it is important for users to stay informed and take steps to protect their privacy and security online.