Demand for VPNs has surged in the UK following the enforcement of the Online Safety Act, which introduced mandatory age checks for adult content. However, the government has confirmed it will not ban or age-gate VPN services after a consultation found little evidence that children are using them to bypass restrictions.
What is the Online Safety Act?
The Online Safety Act allows Ofcom to enforce extra safety checks on users, including mandatory age checks for anyone seeking adult content. This process requires uploading government-issued ID, such as passports and driving licences, and providing biometric data or financial information. The rules also apply to dating apps, social media platforms, gaming sites and forums like Reddit. The Act aims to make the UK “the safest place in the world to be online,” focusing on protecting children from harmful content.
Why VPNs are in demand
Concerns about handing over sensitive personal data to websites have driven many to use VPNs. The government explored restricting or banning VPNs earlier this year, but a public consultation launched in March found little evidence that children are bypassing age restrictions via VPNs. As a result, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology ruled out a ban.
What is a VPN?
Cybersecurity expert Marijus Briedis, CTO at NordVPN, explains: “VPN stands for virtual private network, and it provides the ability to establish a secure network connection even when you’re using unsafe public Wi-Fi. A VPN will encrypt your online traffic and keep your virtual location hidden.”
Why use a VPN?
Briedis says: “Primarily to protect their privacy and security online, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often vulnerable to hackers and other malicious actors. A VPN encrypts the data you send and receive, creating a secure tunnel that shields your information from being intercepted by cybercriminals, internet service providers, or anyone else on the same network, such as in cafes or airports... Using a VPN also helps bypass internet censorship and can prevent internet throttling imposed by ISPs, ensuring a more open and faster browsing experience.”
Most trusted VPNs
According to Briedis, “The most trusted VPNs are those that provide strong encryption standards, such as AES 256-bit encryption, to ensure data security, combined with a strict no-logs policy... Based on expert reviews and extensive testing in 2025, NordVPN is consistently regarded as the most trusted VPN service.” He adds that VPNs are generally easy to set up, requiring just a sign-up, download and one-click connection.
Best VPNs for UK users
NordVPN
Priced from £2.59 per month, NordVPN offers three packages with up to 75% off for new UK signups. The basic package covers gaming, streaming and public Wi-Fi safety, while the Plus package adds anti-malware, ad blocker and password manager.
Surfshark VPN
From £1.79 per month, Surfshark uses RAM-only servers across 100 countries. Features include no-logs, malware protection, kill switch and double VPN. One customer said: “I love Surfshark because it is an easy-to-use app that you can download on all your devices.” Another said: “We’re huge fans of the brand and this VPN has literally changed our lives!”
Proton VPN
Offers a free ad-free plan with no data limits. Paid plans start at £2.39 per month for VPN Plus, protecting up to 10 devices. A customer noted: “Fast connections all over the world. Set up and use is very easy. By far the best VPN out there and worth the subscription!”
ExpressVPN
User-friendly interface with servers in 105 countries. The two-year plan costs £4.03 per month, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Includes a free eSIM with 5GB data.
Private Internet Access
From £1.69 per month on a three-year plan, PIA offers open-source apps, ad and malware blocking, and 24/7 live support. Trustpilot users appreciate its reliability and ease of use.
