- CANTV's Block on Binance Affects Crypto Users
- Social Media Platform X Also Targeted
- Reaction and Further Developments
The Venezuelan government has blocked access to the crypto exchange Binance and the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). As a result, Venezuelan citizens have lost access to their crypto savings and can no longer participate in P2P markets.
CANTV's Block on Binance Affects Crypto Users
On August 9th, local internet censorship monitoring organization VE sin Filtro reported that internet provider CANTV had implemented a DNS block on the crypto exchange Binance. This disruption affected both the website and mobile app, preventing users from accessing their accounts or conducting transactions. Binance assured users that their funds remain secure and that the company is closely monitoring the situation.
Social Media Platform X Also Targeted
In addition to blocking Binance, the Venezuelan government also targeted the social media platform X. President Nicolas Maduro reportedly ordered all major ISPs to restrict access to the platform. X confirmed that it is experiencing difficulties in providing access to users in Venezuela. Among other targets of the blocks is the encrypted messaging app Signal, which remains functional with its "censorship circumvention" setting enabled.
Reaction and Further Developments
Following a public spat between Maduro and Elon Musk, which intensified due to the disputed Venezuelan presidential election on July 28th, tensions continued to rise. Users are actively turning to VPNs to bypass the blocks and restore access to the restricted services.
Venezuelan citizens face new obstacles in accessing cryptocurrency platforms and social networks, increasing their motivation to find alternative ways to bypass the blocks.
