According to the reports, 18 million Algerians out of a population of 40 million are active on the Internet and social networks. Blocking social networks like Facebook and Twitter is to withdraw a reform of what happened two weeks ago when the examination was canceled at the last minute because they realised that exam related information or questions have circulated on the Social media network which includes Facebook and Twitter. “The cut in social media is directly related to the partial baccalaureate exams that are taking place on Sunday,” an official source told the APS state news agency and also stated “This is to protect students from the publication of false papers for these exams” On Sunday, some users said they faced obstacles accessing websites, including Google, although executive had said only social networks would be blocked. The issue of cheating is widespread in the country that makes it difficult for the government to take control and put a stop to it. Early this month some students received the content of examinations into their Facebook account. Dozens of people, including officials, were arrested for their alleged involvement in these massive leaks. A police statement carried by Algeria’s APS news agency on June 7 said cyber crime detective had identified individuals who had “published (exam) material on social networks” as well as those who promoted the exposure.
