SECTOR 1 1.9 The state does not seek to block or filter internet content unless in accordance with laws that provide for restrictions that serve a legitimate interest and are necessary in a democratic society, and which are applied by independent courts. Even though the authorities lack the technological know-how to filter and control web content, the sector is believed to be under perpetual surveillance, which often results in crackdown. The jailing of an outspoken blogger and journalist Arlsen Severin was linked to his online writings. Many also believed the suspicious death of the Franco-Congolese blogger Bruno Ossébi – with most members of his family6 in a fire at his Brazzaville home – was related to his disclosures of alleged high level corruption in the country. Many Congolese believe security operatives are tapping into their phone and e-mail exchanges with the help of coerced service providers. In March-April 2013, police arrested two teachers suspected to have sent text messages (SMS) to their colleagues to organise a public manifestation that began on 25 February 2012. Some fear that the government could have employed special agents just to monitor and intercept electronic communication. But due to the weak security of electronic communication in the country in general, criminals who have nothing to do with the state, may also be hacking into systems and hijacking email accounts. It is common for people to realise that they no longer have access to their e-mail boxes, while someone is actually sending e-mails from them. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 6 82 2.2 Décret n° 2003-327 du 19 Décembre 2003 portant code de conduite des agents publics AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO 2013