Social media restricted and Internet cut during Algeria school exams
According to a news report by the internet observatory firm Netblocks, Algeria cut off Internet connectivity after an initial disruption which saw limitations on social media websites. The result is that all social media and messaging services including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp remain offline. Real-time data collected by Netblocks showed significant impacts to Algeria Telecom which is the state-run operator. Whereas the real reasons for the shutdown remains unclear, it is widely speculated that it was implemented to curb student cheating in the Baccalauréat school examinations that took place from 13-17 September, 2020. This is consistent with government actions taken during previous examination periods.