Summary
People in the UK are downloading VPN apps in high numbers to bypass new age verification rules on certain websites. The VPNs help users avoid sharing personal information like their age to access content. However, experts warn that free VPNs may not be safe and could expose users to risks.
Key Facts
- VPN apps are the most downloaded apps in the UK App Store after new age checks on sites like PornHub and Reddit began.
- A VPN (Virtual Private Network) lets users hide their true location online by connecting through a remote server.
- The Online Safety Act requires websites with adult content to verify users' ages.
- VPN downloads in the UK increased by 1,800% following the implementation of age checks.
- Free VPNs may have security and privacy issues, and can sometimes be used by companies to collect data.
- The new rules require platforms to ensure they do not encourage VPN use to sidestep age checks.
- Proton VPN, a popular VPN service, reported a huge rise in new UK users after the age check rules started.
