Blocking communication

Taken from:
http://www.nbcnews.com/technology/saudi-arabia-plans-block-whatsapp-within-weeks-report-6C10339650

In the west, very few things on the Internet are blocked.  But, in Saudi Arabia that seemingly is different.  The article tells how the government Communication and Information Technology Commission have blocked Viper and are looking to block WhatsApp and Skype.  The offense?  Seemingly, they all allow for free communication - and seemingly that alarms the three telecom companies in Saudi Arabia (who would lose revenue).

The article notes:

Mobile penetration was 188 percent by the end of 2012, CITC data shows. Saudi Arabia now has 15.8 million Internet subscribers and the average user watches three times as many online videos per day as counterparts in the United States, according to YouTube.

and

The kingdom appears to be making a greater push for more control over cyberspace as Internet and smart phone usage soars, in part due to strict laws that limit opportunities for people to mix in person 

So, in the western world, the telecom companies have become part of the smartphone business - and who cares if A&T or Verizon get as much in long distance charges - because they are making good money on smartphone contracts.

The article also mentioned that many workers in Saudi Arabia are not Saudis - and they are texting, emailing, and Skyping for free with family and friends back home (and not using the local telecom services!!!)