There has been a growing tactic among many governments (even regimes associated with democracy rather than authoritarian rule) to shut down the internet to stifle dissent. The justification authorities often use is that they are trying to stop the spread of hateful and dangerous misinformation, which can move faster on Facebook, WhatsApp and other services than their ability to control it. But as the internet becomes more integral to all aspects of life, the shutdowns affect far more people than only protesters or those involved in politics.