According to technology experts, the military regime in Myanmar may intensify its suppression of the public through the recently enacted Cybersecurity Law, which aims to restrict citizens’ freedom to use the internet.

The Cybersecurity Law, which includes 16 chapters and 88 articles, was initially drafted after the military coup in 2021 and officially promulgated by the junta on January 1, 2025. The law allows the junta to monitor internet and digital users, collect personal data, and impose penalties on VPN users, including imprisonment from one to six months in addition to  fines ranging from 1 million to 10 million MMK.

A Mon technology expert noted that the junta could exploit the vague definitions in the law to carry out arrests under various pretexts.

“Locals need to be extra cautious about this law. If arrested for one offense, it could lead to additional charges. For instance, someone detained for a motorcycle-related issue could also be investigated for VPN usage. To protect yourself, deactivate VPNs when traveling or hide them if you can’t deactivate them,” offered the technology expert.

According to the expert the law could also complicate the operations of online entrepreneurs, restrict access to telecommunications, and create additional challenges for citizens.

Observers claim that as the junta loses control of more territories, it has ramped up efforts to block the flow of truthful information. The Cybersecurity Law not only stifles the dissemination of accurate news but could also disrupt daily life and economic activities for individuals across the country, according to a statement issued by the Red Flag group.

“The lives of the people will be affected not only in terms of security and access to accurate information but it will also impact the ability to receive updates related to economic matters. For migrant families, if they can no longer communicate with their relatives, it could lead to psychological harm. As a result, instead of using online platforms to conduct business, even obtaining basic information will become increasingly difficult. This law, which requires online businesses to register, effectively shuts down small-scale online businesses, including those run by homemakers,” said a representative from the Red Flag group.

Opposition groups and civil society organizations have condemned the law, calling for collective efforts to ensure access to accurate information and safeguard the freedom of expression for the public under increasing pressure from the junta.

Even before the law’s enactment, the military had already imposed restrictions on internet access. According to data from the Myanmar Internet Project (MIP), the country experienced over 130 internet shutdowns in 2024 alone.

Since the 2021 coup, the right to freely express opinions and beliefs has significantly diminished. By October 2024, the military regime had detained 1,840 individuals, including 657 women, for expressing dissent online, according to Data for Myanmar.

In early 2025, the military also ramped up inspections nationwide, including in Mon State. Travelers have reported that their mobile phones are a primary target during these inspections.