WANA (Jan 17) – Following a decision by Iran’s security authorities to impose restrictions on the global internet and communication tools in order to control the security situation after recent unrest, some Iranian users have turned to satellite internet services as a means of accessing the internet.

 

However, under the Law on Intensifying Punishments for Espionage and Cooperation with the Israeli Regime and Hostile Countries Against National Security and Interests, which was passed by Iran’s parliament earlier this year, the use, possession, storage, purchase, sale, or importation of such devices has been criminalized.

 

According to Article 5 of this law, the use, possession, storage, purchase, sale, or importation of unlicensed satellite internet communication devices—such as Starlink—carries different penalties under the following conditions:

 

a) Personal use: Six months to two years in prison, plus confiscation of the equipment.

 

b) Supply, production, distribution, installation, operation, or importation for the purpose of distribution: Two to five years in prison.

 

c) Personal use or involvement in supply, production, distribution, installation, operation, or importation with the intent to oppose the system or engage in espionage: If the offender is deemed an enemy agent, the punishment will be that prescribed for moharebeh; if not deemed an enemy agent, the penalty is five to ten years in prison.