Optical patch cable pointing upwards

[Man69]

The isp installed the box with the optical patch cable pointing upwards, is it possible that dust might get into the optical connector through the gap, and block the optical signal?

 

[xrobwx71]

I would say no, it looks to be a sealed system.

 

[Digerati]

They are sealed just to avoid dust contamination when no plug is inserted. They use what they call a dust "shutter". And when a plug is inserted the plug connector itself protects the connection from dust contamination. I would say unused, improperly stored cables pose a greater risk - which is why a wide assortment of dust caps are available and should always be used.