Access to WhatsApp has been restored in Brazil after an appeal by the app's parent company Facebook.

It comes after the messaging service was banned for 72 hours in the South American country - the second time in six months, with a 48-hour block having been imposed back in December.

Michael Kovac Getty Images

Turning to Facebook, Zuckerberg said: "WhatsApp is now back online in Brazil! Your voices have been heard once again. Thank you to our community for helping resolve this.

"That said, the idea that everyone in Brazil can be denied freedom to communicate the way they want is very scary in a democracy.

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"You and your friends can help make sure this never happens again, and I hope you get involved.

"Brazilians have been leaders in connecting the world and creating an open internet for many years. I hope you make your voice heard now and demand change."

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