WhatsApp to be made available in case of no internet

By Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer 

Following conveniently timed internet blackouts in Iran which blocked local protestors from accessing the internet and connecting with the outside world last year, WhatsApp will allow users to access its services even during blackouts.

In a message posted to Twitter in Arabic and English, the Mark Zuckerberg-led social networking app said the decision was made as it continues to fight for the right to communicate freely and privately.

When connecting to WhatsApp directly is not possible, users will be able to stay connected around the world through a server set up by volunteers and organizations dedicated to helping others communicate freely.

If WhatsApp is blocked as it is in China, North Korea, Syria, Qatar and the UAE, users will be able to use a proxy which the company says will still have its traditional end to end encryption feature which allows persons to communicate without the risk of their messages being hacked.

“WhatsApp exists to connect the world privately and we hope this solution helps users all over the world when internet shutdowns stand in the way of their ability to communicate securely with loved ones.”

The company maintained directly calling out Iran and its blackouts saying they violated human rights.

The option is already available.