Pale Township Administration collects Starlink user data after devices blocked in Sagaing Region

Pale Township’s People’s Administration Team (PAT) in Sagaing Region has begun collecting user data from Starlink satellite internet devices that have been blocked as “Region Restricted,” in an effort to help restore their access, according to local officials. The data collected by the Pale Township PAT will be submitted to the opposition National Unity Government’s Ministry of Communications, Information and Technology (MOCIT), which will continue working toward restoring the blocked devices. “If there are Starlink devices in the township that have been blocked, send their information to us. We will submit that information to the NUG’s MOCIT, and the ministry will work on getting the devices back into use,” Pale Township PAT in-charge Zaw Htet told Mizzima. According to him, the current data collection is being carried out on the instructions of region- and district-level officials, and the information gathered will continue to be submitted to the NUG. Zaw Htet said the NUG has not yet officially announced details on how blocked devices can be restored to use, adding that he believes there is a possibility of direct negotiation with SpaceX. SpaceX, which owns the Starlink service, can restrict usage in countries and “Restricted Locations” where it does not yet have official permission to operate. Since early July, Starlink devices used in some areas of Myanmar have been marked “Region Restricted” and rendered unusable, according to users. Under a statement issued on 6 July by the Pale Township PAT, those whose devices have been blocked must submit 12 categories of information, including the owner’s name, national registration card number, device type, and Dish Serial Number. Zaw Htet said Starlink serves as key communications infrastructure for residents, revolutionary forces, and local businesses in resistance-controlled territories where the junta has restricted and cut internet services. “If Starlink can no longer be used, it could immediately affect communications, the flow of information, and online money-transfer businesses,” he said. The Pale Township PAT also said it has not, as of now, registered the Starlink devices in use in the township or collected any monthly tax on them. The post Pale Township Administration collects Starlink user data after devices blocked in Sagaing Region appeared first on ENG.MIZZIMA.COM.