VPN galore: Pakistani memers unleash their best after social media services halt
It's been a difficult couple of hours. Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was arrested by paramilitary officers outside the High Court in Islamabad on Tuesday. Khan was appearing in court on corruption charges that he claims are politically motivated. Reports state that he was detained by forces in armoured personnel carriers after entering the court compound.
As a result, Pakistanis took to the streets to protest. With many social media applications impacted in the aftermath, die-hard internet users took to installing VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks, for communication purposes. While the situation remained tense, Pakistanis also did what they do best - make memes.
Even though it's no joking matter, a little bit of humour during dark times can sometimes help. Here's a round-up of the best memes about having to use VPNs to access routine applications:
We begin our journey with Twitter users stepping into the shoes of their VPNs
Seriously - a lot of Twitter users were concerned their VPNs would be confused at the change of pace
While not a meme, it was interesting of this Twitter user to highlight the irony of the situation
Some Twitter users were far too direct and did not hold back from divulging sensitive information
There were also those who poked holes in the overall plan to shut down social media services
Some Twitter users were feeling a bit too brave
While others took a great deal of joy in ridiculing the idea of halting services
One Twitter user was very clear about Pakistanis "living here and there" as well
Some folks used viral memes to drive the point home
Others had interesting revelations
The power of VPNs was truly appreciated to the fullest
Even if some chose to cling to pipe dreams
Some folks also wondered how much money VPN companies were raking in
Others joked about their ability to lurk from the shadows
All in all, though, this one user summarised the situation in the best way possible
As the situation unfolds, all we can do is stay safe and try to chase even the bleakest rays of light in times of darkness.