If you happen to have been to ask somebody why they suppose that VPN use has elevated within the UK, they’d most likely inform you that it’s as a consequence of the On-line Security Act. This alteration in legislation requires web customers to confirm their age by importing their ID earlier than they’ll entry grownup content material, which, after all, many individuals are uncomfortable with. Nevertheless, the reality is that curiosity in VPNs began to develop some time earlier than that.
Lots of people did get a VPN to keep away from these restrictions, however impartial analysis by Cybernews has established that the expansion in UK VPN use has been regular for the final 5 years, with a 24.08% improve seen in 2024 alone. The nation is presently ranked eighth within the worldwide VPN adoption rankings, primarily based on Google Play and Apple App Retailer downloads. Within the first half of 2025, the UK clocked 10.7 million VPN app downloads, though the information would not make it clear whether or not persons are utilizing one of the best VPNs or random free choices.
Because the examine was based totally on cellular downloads, there are two issues to contemplate. Firstly, there are lots of people who use VPNs on different gadgets, so this is not a complete take a look at the UK’s VPN business. Secondly, a variety of the dodgy free VPNs that I like to warn you about are included in that knowledge, and since they’re wolves in VPN clothes, somewhat than real VPNs, the numbers actually solely replicate those that are fascinated about utilizing a VPN, somewhat than those that are utilizing legit ones.
Over the previous few months, we have seen how these “free” VPNs have been secretly capturing searching knowledge, or hiding malware, and our recommendation is at all times the identical: keep away from free VPNs and use a top quality VPN from a trusted supplier like NordVPN, Proton VPN, Surfshark, CyberGhost, or ExpressVPN as a substitute.
Cybernews has decided that the general improve in VPN adoption worldwide has been rising since 2021, with areas with “state-level web restrictions” exhibiting overwhelming VPN use. Whereas the UK has a 21% common adoption charge over the previous 5 years, the United Arab Emirates has an unbelievable 65.78% common charge, topping the desk. After all, this additionally coincides with the COVID pandemic and folks working from residence extra, which can be an element.
If you happen to need assistance deciding on a VPN, you would possibly wish to know that our most well-liked VPN associate is NordVPN, and we might suggest you verify their service first. It is a speedy and dependable service that works arduous to guard buyer knowledge.
