NetBlocks is a modular technology framework for internet governance transparency, enabling real-time detection and monitoring of mass-scale network controls which affect entire regions and populations.

NetBlocks (netblocks.org) is a modular technology framework for transparent internet governance and real-time monitoring of network controls. The platform combines probe hardware, remote scans and other data sources to provide an enhanced view of internet health that is aggregated and statistically analyzed in real-time, with the goal of rapidly detecting interference affecting whole regions and populations such as during periods of political unrest. OTF supported NetBlocks growth resulting in hundreds of thousands of measurements from thousands of vantage points each month. The project has released numerous open source tools and produced reports on Iran, Cameroon, Pakistan and Bangladesh, among others.

NetBlocks is the technology project of Turkey Blocks, a network observatory which focuses on internet shutdowns and social network availability. The system is a synthesis and refinement of tools and techniques that have been successfully used to reduce the time to detection, increase the accuracy of network interference reports and improve the digital forensic quality of collected metrics.

Addressed problems

  • Restrictive Internet filtering by technical methods (IP blocking, DNS filtering, TCP RST, DPI, etc.)
  • Blocking, filtering, or modification of political, social, and/or religious content (including apps)
  • Technical attacks against government critics, journalists, and/or human rights organizations (Cyberattacks)
  • Localized or nationwide communications shut down or throttling (Blackouts)
  • Physical intimidation, arrest, violence (including device seizure or destruction), and death for political or social reasons
  • Government practices that hold intermediaries (social networks or ISPs) liable for user content

Objective(s)

  • Deploying technology
  • Software or hardware development
  • Research
  • Technology development

Beneficiaries

  • General public
  • Women
  • Activists
  • Journalists
  • Technologists
  • Government

Region(s) archive

  • North Africa
  • Global

Technology attributes

  • Hardware/Embedded device(s)
  • Other
  • Server daemon