Venezuela’s government blocked access to crypto exchange Binance, as well as the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). As a result of this action, Venezuelans have been unable to access their crypto savings or participate in peer-to-peer (P2P) markets that are used as an alternative to the volatile currency. 

CANTV’s Block on Binance Affects Crypto Users

On August 9th, VE sin Filtro, a local organization monitoring internet censorship, reported that CANTV had implemented a DNS block on Binance. This disruption affected both the website and mobile app, preventing users from accessing their accounts or conducting transactions. 

However, the exchange has not yet indicated whether it will allow users to access its platform through virtual private networks (VPNs), a common method for bypassing government-imposed blocks. 

VE sin Filtro has advised users to utilize VPNs to regain access to Binance and other blocked services.

Social Media Platform X Also Targeted

The block on Binance is part of a wider crackdown that also includes the social media platform X. President Nicolas Maduro’s government has reportedly ordered all major ISPs in the country to restrict access to the platform. 

X confirmed that it is experiencing difficulties in providing access to its platform for users in Venezuela. The company has not yet announced any specific measures to address the issue, but users are reportedly turning to VPNs to bypass the block.

Signal, an encrypted messaging app, was also blocked on the same day as X, although it remains functional with its "censorship circumvention" setting enabled.

Following a public spat between Maduro and Elon Musk, Musk labeled Maduro a “dictator” and a “clown,” and Maduro accused Musk of inciting “hatred, fascism, and civil war,” the move occurred. 

The tensions escalated following Venezuela’s disputed presidential election on July 28th, which sparked widespread protests across the country.