Since the UK introduced strict age verification rules for adult content on 25 July 2025, interest in free VPNs has exploded. Google Trends shows a big jump in people searching for VPNs, and five VPN apps are now among the top 10 free apps in the UK’s Apple App Store.
Proton VPN alone saw a 1,400% hourly increase in UK sign-ups starting from midnight on 25 July.
Traffic data shows UK VPN use rose 1,327% on 25 July compared to the prior four-week average, and then shot up even more: 1,712% on 26 July and nearly 2,000% on 27 July.
Another report notes VPN downloads and searches “skyrocketed” post-law enforcement.
Reddit users have commented that VPNs make the age checks almost useless, especially for those who know how to use them.
How Reddit and Others Reacted
Many platforms, including Reddit, have added mandatory age verification in the UK. Reddit now requires UK users to use Persona—often involving selfie or ID checks—to access NSFW content.
Reddit users on the platform have warned that VPNs let people bypass these checks easily, undermining the law’s intent.
There Are Dangers of Using Free VPNs
Using free VPNs may seem like a quick way to dodge verification, but it carries real risks. Many free services don’t guarantee user privacy—they may log your activity, inject ads, or even sell your data.
Some free VPNs have been found to embed tracking tools or malware, offering a false sense of security. If a VPN logs your browsing or sells your data, you’re putting your personal information—like IP address, browsing history, and location—at risk. That makes “free” VPNs potentially more dangerous than transparent ones that require payment but promise “no logs.” Always be cautious: free equals no guarantee of safety.
Why Age Verification Should Discourage Access, Especially Among Young People
The age verification rules were created to protect young people—especially those under 18—from accessing porn and other harmful content. Research shows that many children see pornography before they are emotionally ready. By forcing proof of age—through photo ID, credit card, selfie checks, or digital identity wallets—platforms should make access more controlled. This barrier can help reduce early exposure to adult content, which may contribute to unhealthy habits or unrealistic expectations about relationships. Proper age gating helps discourage casual or impulsive viewing of such content by minors, supporting healthier online development.
Summary
In short, the UK’s Online Safety Act, in force since 25 July 2025, triggered a 1,400% spike in Proton VPN sign-ups, a sustained 1,327%–2,000% jump in VPN traffic, and surging Google searches and app downloads for VPNs. However, using free VPNs carries risks like data mining and privacy breaches. The age checks were intended to protect minors by making access to adult content more difficult, especially for underaged individuals forming early online habits.
