- CANTV’s Block on Binance Affects Crypto Users
- Social Media Platform X Also Targeted
- Escalation of Tensions Between Maduro and Musk
The Venezuelan government has blocked access to the cryptocurrency exchange Binance and the social network X. This decision has made it difficult for Venezuelans to access their crypto savings and participate in P2P markets, which serve as an alternative to the volatile currency.
CANTV’s Block on Binance Affects Crypto Users
On August 9th, VE sin Filtro, a local organization monitoring internet censorship, reported that CANTV had implemented a DNS block on Binance. This disruption affected both the website and mobile app, preventing users from accessing their accounts or conducting transactions.
Binance responded by assuring its users that their funds remain secure and that the company is closely monitoring the situation.
Social Media Platform X Also Targeted
The block on Binance is part of a wider crackdown that also includes the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). President Nicolas Maduro’s government has reportedly ordered all major ISPs in the country to restrict access to the platform.
X confirmed that it is experiencing difficulties in providing access to its platform for users in Venezuela, but has not announced any specific measures to address the issue. Users are reportedly turning to VPNs to bypass the block.
Escalation of Tensions Between Maduro and Musk
The encrypted messaging app Signal was also blocked on the same day as X, although it remains functional with its 'censorship circumvention' setting enabled.
The block followed a public spat between Maduro and Elon Musk, during which Musk labeled Maduro a 'dictator' and a 'clown,' and Maduro accused Musk of inciting 'hatred, fascism, and civil war.' Tensions escalated following Venezuela's disputed presidential election on July 28th, which sparked widespread protests across the country.
The block on access to Binance and the social network X in Venezuela has created significant obstacles for users looking to manage their cryptocurrency savings and freely use the internet. Users are resorting to VPNs to circumvent the government's restrictions.
