12 Jun 2017 | 08:43 PM UTC
Egypt: At least 40 additional websites blocked June 11 /update 1
Egyptian government blocks at least 62 websites since May 24, including VPN services
Event
The Egyptian government has reportedly cut access to 62 websites since May 24, including VPN services, as of Sunday, June 11. Websites affected by the ban include the widely read Al-Borsa financial paper, independent news site Daily News, and the publishing platform "Medium." The government has accused the websites of supporting terrorism and spreading false news.
Civil rights groups have denounced the recent crackdown on Egyptian media as unconstitutional and protests are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Some analysts claim the ban has been implemented as a means to stifle political opposition ahead of Egypt's 2018 presidential election, while others state it is a way to draw attention from a controversial plan to transfer two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia.
Advice
Individuals in Egypt are advised to monitor the situation.
The security environment in Egypt remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel. Due to the high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnapping, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to North Sinai province.
