Technology7/29/2025β€’Engadget

VPNs are booming in the UK after age restriction laws, but free options carry big risks

VPNs are booming in the UK after age restriction laws, but free options carry big risks

The UK's Online Safety Act, which went into effect on July 25th, has led to many popular websites implementing age verification barriers to restrict minors' access to content deemed harmful, such as pornography or content promoting eating disorders. This has resulted in a surge in the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) by UK residents to circumvent these restrictions. While some reputable VPN services like Proton VPN and NordVPN are recommended, the article warns that many of the top free VPN apps downloaded in the UK are unvetted and pose significant risks. These free VPNs may abuse users' trust by selling their data or even infecting their devices with malware. The article emphasizes the importance of choosing a VPN with a clear pricing structure, recent independent audits, a physical location, and a thorough privacy policy to ensure one's safety and privacy.

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