Iran Internet Shutdown Affects 7 Million Crypto Users During Economic Protests

TLDR

• Iran’s government cut internet access on Thursday as protests spread across the country over worsening economic conditions and the Iranian rial hitting record lows against the US dollar
• Around 7 million of Iran’s 92 million citizens are estimated to be crypto users, with roughly $3.7 billion in total crypto flows tracked between January and July 2025
• Technologies like Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet and Blockstream’s satellite network could enable crypto transactions without traditional internet access
• The protests have resulted in at least 36 deaths and over 2,000 detentions as security forces respond to demonstrations in cities like Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan
• The Iranian rial has lost over 800% of its value against the US dollar since 2020, driving interest in Bitcoin as a potential hedge against currency devaluation

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Iran’s government shut down internet access across the country on Thursday as protests erupted in major cities. The blackout affects millions of crypto users who rely on internet connectivity for transactions.

Around 7 million Iranians use cryptocurrency out of the country’s 92 million population, according to Statista data. TRM Labs tracked approximately $3.7 billion in total crypto flows in Iran between January and July 2025.

The internet shutdown came as demonstrations spread across cities including Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan. Protesters took to the streets over deteriorating economic conditions and the collapse of the Iranian rial.

The Iranian rial hit record lows against the US dollar before the shutdown. The currency has lost over 800% of its value since 2020.

Reports indicate failed landline and mobile calls from Dubai to Iran following the blackout. Cloudflare Radar data confirmed the widespread loss of internet connectivity across the country.

The protests have turned violent as security forces move to suppress demonstrations. At least 36 deaths have been reported along with over 2,000 detentions.

Demonstrators are calling for systemic change and economic reforms. Some protesters have chanted in support of exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.

Alternative Technologies for Crypto Access

Several technologies could help Iranian crypto users maintain access during the internet blackout. Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service provides one potential solution.

Starlink equipment can deliver high-speed internet in areas without traditional service. The system uses satellites to relay data globally through laser connections and ground stations.

There have been calls for Musk to deploy Starlink in Iran as he did during a previous blackout in June 2025. Unconfirmed reports suggest Musk may have quietly granted the request.

Bitcoin infrastructure company Blockstream offers another option through its satellite network. The system can broadcast Bitcoin data worldwide without requiring traditional internet access.

Bitwise CEO Hunter Horsley suggested Bitcoin could serve as a store of wealth for Iranians facing currency devaluation. The cryptocurrency’s capped supply and decentralized structure make it resistant to government manipulation.

Challenges to Crypto Adoption

Iranian crypto users face regulatory restrictions that could limit Bitcoin adoption. The government’s stance on cryptocurrency remains a key factor in determining access.

Technical complexity presents another barrier for average users. User-friendly Bitcoin wallets and exchanges tailored to Iranian users would be necessary for wider acceptance.

Bitcoin’s price volatility affects its role as a safe-haven asset. Global economic conditions will influence whether Iranians can rely on crypto during the crisis.

The government announced a monthly food coupon system to address rising prices. Many Iranians remain skeptical of the regime’s economic response measures.

Iran’s new army chief issued warnings against foreign aggression amid the protests. The government has responded with anti-Western rhetoric as demonstrations continue.

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