The Algerian government has proposed a centralized content filtering system to monitor all internet communications. The system will prevent terrorists from hacking websites and committing other acts of piracy, as well as restrict access to pornographic websites. This in addition to parental control applications that have already been installed on routers distributed by Algerie Telecom.

Internet users and cyber-cafe owners in Algeria are concerned that a proposed internet-filtering system would limit privacy and slow down access to other websites. Others have expressed concern that the filtering system would impede Algerians' freedom to access news and information.

Algeria is one of a small number of Arab nations with no centralised internet filtering system to control information access. To date, Algeria has been largely free from all forms of blocking, monitoring or confiscation of websites and computers.

Source: Proposed Algeria internet filter raises privacy concerns, Magharebia, December 15, 2009

Tags: Algeria, content filtering