Jordan begins blocking pornographic websites

Jordan’s Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC), in cooperation with all internet service providers and telecom companies, has begun implementing measures to block access to pornographic websites across all fixed and mobile networks.

Chairwoman of the TRC Board of Commissioners, Lara Al-Khatib, told Roya that the authority has officially instructed telecom companies to immediately implement an integrated blocking system based on three technical pillars:

• Activation of filtering systems: Using advanced technologies to automatically classify and block IP addresses and domains that host pornographic content.
• Scope of the decision: The blocking is not limited to fiber or ADSL technologies, but extends to all internet packages, including those accessed smartphones.
• Ongoing monitoring: Continuous updates to blocking lists to counter newly emerging websites that attempt to bypass filtering systems.

Motives behind the decision: values protection and cybersecurity

Experts said the move responds to growing public demands, highlighting its importance in two key areas:

• Protection from exploitation: Reducing children’s exposure to inappropriate content and limiting risks of online sexual exploitation.
• Enhancing digital security: Such websites are considered major sources of malware and ransomware aimed at stealing user data and breaching privacy.