Twitter has been blocked on several networks inside Turkey, according to NetBlocks, a group that tracks internet outages, taking down a key communication channel for coordinating relief efforts after Monday’s devastating earthquake.
Alp Toker, director of NetBlocks, said the coordinated nature of the block suggested it was probably the result of a government order. He said network data indicated the blocking was being done with software installed by telecom providers that can prevent specific websites and services from loading.
Turkey has a history of placing restrictions on social media during emergencies and major security incidents.
In October, Turkey’s Parliament passed sweeping legislation in an effort to crack down on disinformation. As part of the measure, social media companies are required to remove content and provide proprietary information to authorities if requested. Non-compliant companies could face a slowdown in the speed of their services in Turkey.
gulsin harman contributed reporting.
