Iran Internet Freedom Act: Supporting open access and circumventing censorship.
This Act aims to strengthen access to the open Internet for Iranian citizens, especially activists and journalists, by funding technologies that bypass censorship. It mandates regular updates to the US strategy for promoting digital freedom in Iran, including developing methods to circumvent complete Internet blackouts. Furthermore, the Act authorizes grants to private organizations to develop secure tools, such as VPNs, so that Iranians can freely use the network and protect their rights.
Key points
Technology Funding: $15 million annually (for fiscal years 2025 and 2026) is authorized for grants to organizations developing tools that enable Iranians unrestricted Internet access (e.g., VPNs).
Censorship Protection: Requires the development of a strategy to allow Iranian citizens access to the Internet even if the regime imposes a complete network blackout.
Sanctions Guidance: Directs the Department of the Treasury to develop guidance ensuring that sanctions do not prevent companies from providing Iranian civilians with necessary technology for open Internet access.
Tool Security: New technologies funded by these grants must undergo comprehensive security audits to protect users and US interests from misuse.
Expired
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