According to Reporters Without Borders, 62 cyber-dissidents are in jail around the world and more than 2,600 websites, blogs, or forums were closed down or blocked last year.
To raise awareness RSF is hosting a 24-hour online protest against Internet censorship. Participants can set up virtual dissident-slogan-bearing signs in nine countries including Egypt, Tunisia and Eritrea.
When BBC last updated their coverage of the event four hours ago, 5000 people had joined the protest. Nearly 14,000 are there now. Go add your name.