In a move to control internet access, Saudi Arabia has recently implemented restrictions on the popular web address shortening service, TinyURL. The impact of this decision is particularly notable as TinyURL serves as the default shortener for Twitter, the widely used microblogging platform.
This development has prompted a response from concerned users, with a Facebook campaign advocating for the unblocking of TinyURL gaining traction. A member of the campaign, Rami, has shared a workaround for accessing TinyURL within Saudi Arabia.
To bypass the restriction, users can add an "s" after http in the URL, for example, https://tinyurl.com/5zgee4. Clicking on the link may trigger a security warning in Firefox, but users can simply click on "More" and add a security exception for TinyURL. This allows for continued access by appending the "s" to the URL in future attempts.
An update confirms the success of this workaround. Additionally, Jillian York encourages users to report the block to Herdict, a project focused on self-reporting internet filtering.
As the community seeks solutions, inquiries have been made to Twitter about the possibility of changing the default URL shortener for user accounts. Users are encouraged to follow suit in reaching out to Twitter for clarification.
