Summary of Online Censorship and Surveillance in Myanmar

Introduction

  • Overview of online censorship and surveillance in Myanmar.

  • Author: Phyu Phyu Kyaw, November 2020.

Research Background

  • Study aims to understand government and military technologies/strategies for surveillance and censorship.

  • Focus on both online and offline spaces, with methodologies including network measurements and interviews.

Political Context

  • Military rule from 1962 to 2011, followed by influenced democratic processes.

  • Ongoing civil war and significant issues relating to the Rohingya crisis.

Online Connectivity

  • Internet access improved since 2011; however, surveillance, censorship, and rights abuses persist.

  • Government established a Social Media Monitoring Team (SMMT) for state stability.

Methodology Overview

  • Three-step research process:

    1. Gather public information (monitoring government/media).

    2. Device testing and network measurements.

    3. Conducting interviews with at-risk individuals.

Findings on Censorship

  • 230 websites blocked by March 2020, including media outlets covering sensitive issues.

  • Various censorship techniques employed across different ISPs in Myanmar.

Surveillance Capacity

  • Utilization of tools like Cellebrite by the military.

  • Integration of psychological warfare units spreading disinformation through social media.

Internet Restrictions

  • Internet shutdowns in conflict areas—especially Rakhine and Chin states—since June 2019.

  • Reasons for shutdowns tied to security claims against armed groups like the Arakan Army.

Interview Insights

  • Interviews with 24 individuals showed feelings of insecurity both online and offline.

  • Self-censorship prevalent among activists, journalists due to fear of surveillance/harassment.

Legal and Psychological Concerns

  • Weak legal frameworks lead to harassment of activists; existing laws are overly broad.

  • Psychological well-being of activists compromised due to constant threats and intimidation.

Conclusion and Future Directions

  • Rising censorship and surveillance threaten fundamental rights in Myanmar.

  • Need for legal reforms, enhanced protection for activists, and comprehensive digital safety measures.