Internet Disruptions in Pakistan Cause Fiverr Accounts to Become Unavailable

Several freelancers in Pakistan recently found their Fiverr accounts temporarily unavailable, likely due to widespread internet disruptions across the country. The internet slowdown reportedly linked to increased government monitoring, has caused significant issues for online workers, particularly those relying on platforms like Fiverr for their livelihoods.

Government Monitoring and Internet Slowdowns

The disruptions speculated to be a result of a new government-installed firewall, have affected various online services, including social media platforms. Despite these speculations, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has denied the involvement of a firewall in the disruptions.

Impact on Freelancers

Freelancers across Pakistan, including medical content writers and students, have reported receiving notifications from Fiverr stating that their accounts were made “unavailable” to clients. This action, according to Fiverr, aims to protect users from negative ratings due to potential delays caused by internet issues. However, not all freelancers received this notification, suggesting the measures may be region-specific.

Freelancer Concerns

Many freelancers have expressed concerns about the impact of these disruptions on their income and reputation. A student from Islamabad noted that her Fiverr earnings are crucial for her financial stability, highlighting the significant challenges posed by the platform’s unavailability.

Community and Rights Activists Speak Out

The internet disruptions have also sparked criticism from rights activists, who have highlighted the broader implications of slow and unstable internet access. Activists argue that such disruptions not only hinder business operations but also affect students and other internet-dependent individuals.

Conclusion

As internet access remains a critical resource for millions in Pakistan, these disruptions underscore the importance of stable and secure online infrastructure. The situation continues to evolve, with freelancers and rights activists urging for a more reliable and transparent approach to internet governance in the country.