In latest news from Venezuela, authorities have lifted the ban on the popular messaging app Telegram, allowing users to access the platform without the need for VPN services. Despite this development, internet access in Venezuela remains restricted, with the video-sharing app TikTok still blocked for the seventh consecutive day.

Venezuelan digital rights group VE sin Filtro reported the lifting of the Telegram ban by major ISPs, including CANTV, Inter, Airtek, Digitel, G-Network, and Movistar, following a wave of internet disruptions. Telegram had previously been blocked in September 2024 and experts noted that the encrypted messaging app Signal is currently inaccessible in the country.

The government’s decision to impose restrictions extended to blocking VPN websites and tools like Proton VPN, NordVPN, Surfshark, and Canva, a popular graphic design tool, in an effort to control online content. Despite this, VPN providers confirmed their services were still functioning normally in Venezuela.

Increased censorship measures in Venezuela have led to a surge in VPN usage and heightened internet restrictions, prompting concerns over freedom of information and expression in the country. Proton VPN, for instance, saw a significant increase in sign-ups ahead of President Maduro’s third term inauguration ceremony.

These developments highlight the challenges faced by internet users in Venezuela and the ongoing battle for digital rights and access to information in the country.