Uk’S Vpn Crackdown: A Backfire In The Making?

VPN Restrictions Spark Debate

Campaigners are sounding the alarm about the UK Government's plan to crack down on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), labeling it as 'technically unworkable' and a potential threat to privacy, cybersecurity, and freedom of expression. This arises amid mounting pressure for a government-led initiative to bolster online safety.

The Open Rights Group (ORG) has issued a briefing paper titled "VPNs and the Online Safety Act," arguing that restricting VPNs will do little to enhance online safety for those under 18. Despite the government's digital safety law mandating platforms to ban content promoting VPNs to young users, ORG urges a reconsideration of this approach.

A Loophole or a Misstep?

Since the Online Safety Act's age verification measures kicked in last July, VPN usage has surged, leading to calls for further restriction to prevent minors from bypassing age assurance checks. English children's commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza has been vocal about this issue, describing VPN use by minors as a loophole needing closure.

“VPNs are an important cybersecurity tool. They help businesses, politicians, journalists, and members of the public protect their data and communications,” stated James Baker, ORG’s platform power programme manager.

However, ORG counters that children aged 6–12, the main focus of these reforms, are unlikely to use VPNs, especially with parental controls in place. They argue that the effort required to install and manage a VPN remains a formidable barrier for most children.

Security Concerns and Solutions

Tech-savvy teens may find alternative ways to dodge age verification, such as using proxy sites or other platforms. Meanwhile, ORG highlights the increase in VPN downloads as a sign that adults are hesitant to share personal info with unfamiliar age assurance providers, clashing with long-standing cybersecurity advice.

ORG's report advocates for higher privacy standards and urges the government to acknowledge the positive role VPNs play in defending against cyber threats like data theft and identity fraud, while also allowing freedom of expression and information access.

Risks of Criminalising Legitimate Use

The report warns that far from protecting vulnerable users, restricting VPNs might inadvertently criminalise legitimate use by families and communities. It also notes that age-checks on VPNs are technically impractical, as VPN traffic can mimic ordinary encrypted web activity, making detection challenging.

As the debate heats up, it remains to be seen whether policymakers will heed these warnings or push forward with restrictions that could backfire.