Informant culture is deeply rooted in Iranian society, where terms like "mokhber" or "khabarchin" are commonly used to describe people who report others, and "zirabzan" refers to those who secretly share private information with authorities, often to harm someone. A study based on interviews with 90 Iranians from various professions and age groups shows that the informant system in Iran operates through powerful organizations such as the intelligence ministry, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and the Basij, a paramilitary group. These groups have extensive networks that reach into workplaces, government offices, universities, and even personal lives through internal security units like Herasat, and organizations responsible for vetting individuals, such as Gozinesh or Salahiyat-e Omumi. These security bodies hold considerable power and often operate with little legal oversight. Informants may be asked to record conversations, identify people discussing sensitive topics, or report on private gatherings that involve alcohol or mixed-gender dancing. About one-third of the people interviewed mentioned that social media and messaging platforms are used to monitor and collect information, often by taking screenshots of content deemed critical or politically sensitive. The informant system encourages or forces people to report on others as a regular part of daily life. Those who cooperate might receive better job evaluations, promotions, or institutional support. On the other hand, those who refuse to report often face threats, such as job loss, legal issues, or harm to their families. Some interviewees said they felt pressured to report due to workplace competition, personal jealousy, or strong ideological beliefs, with some considering it a duty to the Islamic Republic. People can be reported for criticizing the government, questioning its views on the U.S. and Israel, talking about protests, or challenging religious institutions and moral standards. The consequences of being reported can include damage to one’s career, legal punishment, harm to reputation, and social isolation. Those who report others often experience guilt, anxiety, and fear of being rejected by friends or colleagues. The presence of these informant networks leads to self-censorship, as people become cautious about expressing opinions on politically sensitive issues. A study from Kazakhstan found that awareness of digital surveillance discourages people from voicing their views on such topics. In Iran, the difficulty in knowing who is watching or how much surveillance is happening creates a climate of fear, with some people saying they can't trust anyone and are constantly afraid someone is reporting on them. This dynamic has been tested during recent protests in Iran, including the nationwide movement in early 2026 and earlier protests in 2019 and 2022. In each case, authorities used digital surveillance and reports from informants to identify protest participants and organizers, leading to arrests, legal actions, and even executions. Despite widespread dissatisfaction, the fear of being watched and the need to rely on the state for jobs and basic needs have made it difficult to build a lasting political resistance.