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

The UK's Online Safety Act, effective July 25th, mandates websites protect children from harmful content. This has led major platforms like Pornhub, X, and Reddit to implement age verification or ban minors. Consequently, underage users are turning to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass these restrictions. Five of the top ten most downloaded free apps in the UK are now VPNs. Many free VPNs, however, pose significant risks to user privacy and security. These services can exploit user data, sell IP addresses, or embed malware. The article highlights examples like Hola VPN and Hotspot Shield as cautionary tales. Unvetted free VPNs often lack transparency regarding their funding and data handling practices. Users should be wary of services that offer no paid options or unrestricted free access. Choosing a trustworthy VPN requires careful consideration of its pricing structure, independent audits, physical location, and privacy policy. Reputable free VPNs such as Proton VPN, hide.me, TunnelBear, and Windscribe are recommended alternatives that prioritize user safety.