- CANTV's Block on Binance
- Social Media Platform X Also Targeted
- Response and Recommendations
The government of Venezuela has blocked access to the cryptocurrency exchange Binance and the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). As a result, many Venezuelans have been unable to access their crypto savings or participate in P2P markets.
CANTV's Block on Binance
On August 9th, local internet censorship monitoring organization VE sin Filtro 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.
Social Media Platform X Also Targeted
The block on Binance is part of a wider crackdown that also includes the social media platform X. 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. On the same day, the encrypted messaging app Signal was also blocked, although it remains functional with its 'censorship circumvention' setting enabled.
Response and Recommendations
Binance assured its users that their funds remain secure and that the company is closely monitoring the situation. However, the exchange has not yet indicated whether it will allow users to access its platform through virtual private networks (VPNs). VE sin Filtro has advised users to utilize VPNs to regain access to Binance and other blocked services.
These blockades have emerged amid escalating political tensions in the country following Venezuela’s disputed presidential election on July 28th, which sparked widespread protests across the country.
