Iranian Regime Impacts Persian Wikipedia by Manipulation, Censorship

The Iranian regime has been manipulating and censoring content on Persian Wikipedia to distort public perception and conceal its actions. Over the past two decades, the regime has strategically invested in the expansion of Persian Wikipedia, utilizing affiliated Iranian Wikipedians to influence the platform. While Wikipedia remains uncensored in Iran, the regime employs hired contributors to insert propaganda and censor information, particularly regarding human rights violations and protests. Reports indicate that the regime has systematically altered articles to hide its crimes, including mass executions and state-sponsored violence. Following the global ban of a regime-affiliated administrator, the regime is attempting to regain control over the platform through new representatives. Mohammad Heydarzadeh, a key figure in Persian Wikipedia, is reportedly working to rebuild the Iranian Wikimedians User Group and gain sensitive access to the Wikimedia Foundation. This situation poses risks to the freedom of expression for Persian Wikipedia users, as their identities may be compromised. The need for a transparent selection process for Wikipedia managers is emphasized to protect user confidentiality and ensure the integrity of the platform.

- The Iranian regime manipulates Persian Wikipedia to distort information and conceal its actions.

- Hired contributors are used to insert propaganda and censor critical content.

- The regime is attempting to regain control of Wikipedia after the ban of a key administrator.

- Mohammad Heydarzadeh is working to rebuild the Iranian Wikimedians User Group.

- User confidentiality and freedom of expression are at risk due to the regime's influence.