Where Is the Web Closed? - Internet Fragmentation and Access Restrictions
Explore the challenges to global internet accessibility in this 19-minute conference talk from USENIX Enigma 2019. Delve into three non-government-censorship reasons for web restrictions: GDPR compliance avoidance, country-based blocking, and security concerns. Examine how these practices disproportionately affect developing regions, potentially hindering their growth. Analyze measurement techniques for detecting web blocking, regional variations in access, and patterns of restriction. Consider the implications of internet fragmentation and the darkening web landscape. Investigate the roles of intermediaries, poor infrastructure, and physical borders in limiting access. Conclude by discussing potential solutions to create a more open and accessible internet for users worldwide.