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France Considered Internet Blocks During Protests

PolicyOctober 28, 20261 min read

The French government considered blocking social media apps or mobile internet in some areas during recent protests. The plan was dropped, and the debate now moves to parliament.

What happened

During the latest wave of protests in France, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's government looked at limiting digital services. One idea was to block major apps, or even mobile internet, in certain areas. The goal was to stop violent groups from organizing riots. Officials from the government and phone companies confirmed this to the news site Politico.

Why the government worried

After heavy riots on October 17, security agencies feared more violence the next weekend. Officials from the interior ministry contacted French phone companies such as Orange. The prime minister reportedly sent a letter asking providers to be ready to shut down TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and X on short notice.

Key facts

Riots and violence took place on October 17.
Officials prepared plans in the days before October 24.
The letter asked providers to be ready to block TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and X.
On October 24, the situation calmed down, so providers did not have to act.

Why it matters

Experts say blocking apps in just one neighborhood is not technically possible. Cutting mobile data in an area would also hit peaceful protesters and residents. It could stop contactless payments, security cameras, and emergency radio for rescue workers. The government reportedly also discussed a smaller step: turning off location sharing on networks, so people could not quickly gather at hotspots.

What to watch

Lawmakers are debating a bill called 'Wer kaputt macht, zahlt' ('Who breaks it, pays'), which would make rioters pay for damage even if they did not cause it themselves.
The bill would require platforms to remove posts calling for violence, theft or property damage within 24 hours, or within one hour when they stir up unrest.
Some lawmakers want tools such as algorithms to block videos, tracking of troublemakers, and stricter liability for online marketplaces that sell stolen goods.

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