VPNs top download charts as age verification law kicks in

In the UK, VPN apps have quickly become the most popular downloads on the Apple App Store after new online safety laws started being enforced. These laws require websites with adult content, like PornHub, Reddit, and X, to check the age of their users. To get around these new age checks, many people are turning to VPNs. A VPN, or virtual private network, lets users hide their real location and appear as if they are browsing from another country. This makes it easier for people to access websites that might be blocked or restricted in the UK.

By Monday morning, five out of the top ten free apps in the UK App Store were VPNs. One VPN company reported an incredible 1,800% increase in downloads over the weekend. VPNs work by connecting users to the internet through a remote server, which hides their real IP address and location. This allows people to bypass blocks on certain websites or content. The Online Safety Act now requires websites with adult or harmful content to use strong methods to check if users are over 18. These methods can include taking a selfie, recording a video, or uploading an ID. However, some people are worried that their personal data could be stored, misused, or linked to other online activities.

Cyber-security experts warn that free VPNs can be dangerous. Daniel Card, a security expert, explained that many free VPNs have serious problems. Some collect user data and sell it to other companies, while others are so poorly made that they put users at risk of being hacked. Despite these dangers, many young people and adults use free VPNs to get around age restrictions. Katie Freeman-Tayler from Internet Matters, a group focused on children's online safety, said it is concerning that children can easily use VPNs to avoid important protections. The government and Ofcom have said that it is illegal for websites to encourage people to use VPNs to get around age checks. Some VPN companies claim they do not share user data and that their services are secure, but experts warn that most people just download the first free app they find, often without understanding the risks. This situation shows that people are willing to take risks online to access the content they want, even if it means putting their privacy and safety in danger.