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China is known for its strict internet censorship policies, which have led to the blocking of a significant number of websites. With its enormous population and rapid technological growth, the Chinese government has implemented one of the most comprehensive internet control systems in the world. This system, often referred to as the "Great Firewall," has blocked or restricted access to numerous websites and online services, both foreign and domestic.
In this article, we’ll explore the scope of internet censorship in China, examine the major categories of blocked websites, and provide an updated list of websites and apps that are restricted within the country in 2025. Additionally, we’ll discuss how these blocks affect both Chinese citizens and international users, and how people can test if a site is blocked while within China’s borders.
The Scope of Internet Censorship in China
The Chinese government enforces one of the most rigorous internet censorship regimes in the world. The "Great Firewall," which refers to the government’s system of internet censorship and surveillance, blocks access to a wide array of foreign and domestic websites. The primary aim of these restrictions is to control the flow of information and ensure that content accessible to the public aligns with the government’s ideology, policies, and objectives.
The blocked websites range from social media platforms and news outlets to websites hosting sensitive or politically controversial content. The reason for blocking these websites can vary from political considerations to concerns about national security, public order, or morality.
What Websites Are Blocked in China?
As of 2025, China continues to block or restrict access to thousands of foreign and domestic websites. Some of the most notable websites and services that are completely inaccessible to users in mainland China include:
# 1. Social Media Platforms
Many popular international social media platforms are blocked in China. These platforms are either seen as a threat to government control over communication or are platforms that allow the spread of information deemed politically sensitive. Examples include:
- Facebook: Banned since 2009 following the Urumqi riots. Facebook’s services, including Messenger and Instagram, are unavailable to users in mainland China.
- Twitter: Like Facebook, Twitter is also blocked due to concerns over its role in disseminating information critical of the government and the spread of anti-government sentiment.
- YouTube: The video-sharing platform has been banned since 2009. Chinese authorities cited concerns about the platform hosting content critical of the government.
- WhatsApp: WhatsApp, owned by Facebook, is frequently disrupted or blocked in China as it provides encrypted communication that can bypass government surveillance.
# 2. News Websites
Foreign news websites, particularly those that offer information about Chinese politics or critical news reports, are often blocked. Examples of such websites include:
- The New York Times: This U.S.-based news outlet has been blocked in China since 2012, primarily due to its extensive coverage of corruption scandals involving Chinese leaders.
- BBC News: The British broadcaster’s website has been blocked intermittently, especially when it reports on topics such as human rights violations or protests in China.
- Reuters: Another major news outlet that faces periodic restrictions in China, especially during times of heightened political sensitivity.
# 3. Search Engines
Some of the most widely used search engines worldwide are also blocked in China, as they can be used to access uncensored information. These include:
- Google: One of the most notable search engines blocked in China since 2010. Google’s refusal to comply with Chinese censorship laws was a key factor in the blocking of its services. Since then, many Google services, including Gmail and Google Search, are inaccessible.
- DuckDuckGo: The privacy-oriented search engine that does not track users is also banned in China, as it allows access to unfiltered information.
# 4. Messaging and Communication Apps
Many messaging services that are widely used outside of China face restrictions, particularly those that offer encryption or allow for international communication without government oversight. These include:
- Skype: While some versions of Skype remain accessible, many features of the service have been restricted in China.
- Telegram: A messaging app known for its security and encryption, Telegram has been blocked due to its role in facilitating uncensored communication.
- Signal: Another encrypted messaging app, Signal, has been targeted by Chinese authorities for its use in circumventing censorship.
# 5. Cloud Storage and File Sharing Platforms
Many file-sharing and cloud storage platforms that allow users to store and share documents online are also restricted. These include:
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how many websites are banned in china - The Complete List of Blocked Websites in China