NetFreedom Pioneers use satellite TV signals to deliver data to Iranians during internet shutdown
Updated
Updated · TechRadar · Apr 28
NetFreedom Pioneers use satellite TV signals to deliver data to Iranians during internet shutdown
11 articles · Updated · TechRadar · Apr 28
During the January 2026 nationwide internet blackout, Toosheh enabled Iranians to receive 1–5GB of data daily via free-to-air satellite TV, bypassing government censorship and jamming attempts.
The system distributed opposition statements, uncensored news, first aid tutorials, and anti-censorship tools, while remaining undetectable and private for users despite increased jamming and surveillance.
With US State Department funding ending in August 2025, NetFreedom Pioneers now rely on private donations to sustain Toosheh, which only supports downloads, not uploads, but remains a vital lifeline for information access.
Toosheh delivers information, but can a download-only system truly empower citizen resistance?
With US funding gone, can private donations sustain Toosheh's $50,000 monthly satellite bill?
Can the proposed IRAN Act effectively revive US support for tools that fight internet blackouts?
How does Iran justify its 'digital iron curtain' against foreign-backed circumvention tools?
How does one-way 'data-casting' via TV signals evade Iran's sophisticated digital firewall?
Could a new FCC rule boosting satellite power make anti-censorship tools cheaper and more widespread?