Iranian citizens were surprised yesterday evening to discover they could access the Internet without the strict content filters usually placed on networks in the country. Both Iranians and foreign journalists tweeted that they were accessing the microblogging site ‘legally’ and without the need for proxies:

Okay people the rumors are true, this is my first tweet ever using Iran's state cell phone internet service without VPN!!!

— Thomas Erdbrink (@ThomasErdbrink) September 16, 2013

my first legal tweet from tehran :))

— kaveh pajouhan (@kavehpajouhan) September 16, 2013

However, only 24 hours after the discovery, Iranian authorities reinstated the content filters on Internet traffic. According to the BBC, ‘technical problems’ were blamed for the temporary lapse.

Iranian rulers have gained infamy for their censorship of the Internet. Filters restrict content concerning subjects like homosexuality and oppositional political ideologies, as well as most Western media sites. Authorities have been accused of monitoring online activities, even of citizens abroad. Internet cafes are required to collect personal details of all customers.  

The Supreme Council of Virtual Space was set up in 2012 to help ‘control’ online activities in Iran. It consists of members of the police force, Revolutionary Guard and government officials, who aim to co-ordinate Internet policy in the country. Even Internet speeds are strictly regulated, with some suggesting it’s an attempt at further restricting access to Western media content.

American authorities have provided free proxy servers to Iranian citizens to try and counter censorship, although some topics are still blacklisted.

It is hoped that Iranian leaders will start relaxing some of their more controversial laws following the election of more ‘progressive’ President Hassan Rouhani in June. He has already suggested the possibility of positive changes to Internet policy.

Last week, the main Iranian filmmakers guild was allowed reopen after being shut down almost two years ago, suggesting a new tolerance for cultural activities (many filmmakers had been arrested or persecuted under previous governments). However, as illustrated by yesterday’s incident, fundamental social and cultural change remains unlikely.