Pakistan, Oct. 9 -- Access to major social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat has been intentionally restricted across Afghanistan, according to an internet watchdog. The disruption follows a 48-hour nationwide telecommunications blackout last week, raising concerns about increasing control over digital communication. NetBlocks, a global cybersecurity monitor, confirmed that access had been deliberately limited on multiple mobile networks, with users reporting sluggish connections and frequent disconnections since Tuesday.

Furthermore, the watchdog stated that the restrictions primarily affect mobile users, although some fixed-line connections are also impacted. Internet users in several provinces experienced slo...