Brits warned over VPN risks as new Online Safety Act rules enforce age verification
Earlier this month a new web update was implemented to try and stop people from easily accessing adult websites and content. UK regulator Ofcom has created some tough new rules for users through the Online Safety Act.
The act aims to stop young people from stumbling upon inappropriate content while online. This new measure means that those wanting to view certain content will first need to provide proof of their age.
But many people have raised concerns about being forced to prove their age online. Especially as many Brits have come into contact with this block for non-X-rated content, including Reddit forum threads on alcohol and even some Wikipedia sections.
Due to this, many people have chosen to turn to VPNs - virtual private networks - as they are unsure about sharing their personal data. The Online Safety Act is seen as an important move since Ofcom found that eight per cent of 8 to 14-year-olds in the UK have accessed adult websites.
However, many adults have admitted to feeling uncomfortable handing over their personal or financial data in order to access X-rated content, reports the Express.
With the new update, internet users will need to provide data including their name, email address, and potentially even bank details to ensure proof of their age. By doing so, only those old enough to watch adult content will be given access.
In an online post, Ofcom said: "This is a significant change to how adults in the UK access pornography, and is a key step in helping to protect children from harmful content when they're online."
However, some experts are saying that this new measure could lead to a rise in cyber attacks and scams as hackers will try to capitalise on the new system and steal the new data.
Jake Moore, global cybersecurity advisor from ESET said: "There are still details of the act that are missing that could even pose significant privacy and security risks by collecting data such as ID uploads and financial information."
As a result of this new web update and concerns over protection of personal and financial data, the UK has seen a significant rise in the use of VPNs. These networks allow users to fool their smartphone or PC into thinking they are in a different country which does not have the new block in place. Additionally, VPNs also allow users to hide their browser data.
However, while one major VPN provider has noted a massive spike in UK downloads, web users need to be aware that this network may not be the quick fix they are hoping for and if proper research isn't conducted it could leave them even more vulnerable to cyber attacks.
With many free VPNs available to download, Brits need to proceed with caution as many of these services are too good to be true. With weak security features and ways to log your personal data without your knowledge, web users should take a moment to think if downloading a VPN is the best idea.
EC-Council University explained: "One of the primary concerns with free VPNs online is that they may not have robust security features. Many free VPN providers lack the resources to develop and maintain strong security protocols, leaving their users vulnerable to cyber threats such as malware, hacking, and phishing.
"Free VPNs need to generate revenue, and they often do this by logging and selling users' data to third-party advertisers. These VPN providers may log your browsing history, online activity, and personal information and then sell it to advertisers, compromising your online privacy."
Therefore, if you are considering downloading a free VPN it is crucial that you do your research first and do not install any apps that you aren't sure are completely safe to use.
For those wanting to guarantee a secure VPN experience, paying for the service is ultimately the answer. The team at Mozilla said: "We understand the temptation of having a secure online connection for free.
"It's important that you know, however, that the risks of free VPNs may make you think twice about that free price tag. When VPNs are offered to users for free, that means that providers have to gain revenue in another way."
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