Iran declares "unauthorized" VPN usage illegal - How bad is it?

In the wake of Iran’s recent crackdown on “unauthorized” VPN usage, a new layer of restrictions has been added, significantly impacting both locals and foreigners residing in the country.

This move by the Iranian government not only tightens its grip on internet access but also poses a substantial risk to those attempting to bypass the country’s stringent online censorship.

Iran Puts an Extra Layer of Ban on VPNs

As reported by TechRadar, Iran has officially outlawed the use of VPN services without a legal permit, a decision that has been met with widespread criticism.

This resolution, endorsed by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, further complicates the already challenging situation for internet users in Iran. Its citizens already faced one of the most restrictive online environments globally. The ban underscores the government’s intent to control and monitor its citizens’ online activities more closely.

How Dangerous Is It to Use a VPN in Iran Today?

The dangers of using a VPN in Iran have significantly escalated following the new restrictions.

For foreigners living in Iran, the risks extend beyond just losing access to their preferred web services. The government’s aggressive stance on unauthorized VPN use means that individuals caught using these services could face severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or worse, depending on the perceived severity of the offense.

This crackdown is part of a broader pattern of internet censorship and surveillance in Iran.

With countless websites blocked or filtered daily, and social media blackouts common during periods of political unrest, the government’s control over the digital realm is tight. The ban on unauthorized VPNs further isolates Iranians and foreign residents from the global community, depriving them of the digital age’s benefits.

Are There Any Safe VPNs to Use in Iran?

In light of the recent crackdown, finding a VPN that can safely be used in Iran has become increasingly challenging.

However, some VPNs continue to offer services to Iranian users, employing advanced obfuscation techniques to bypass government restrictions. There are still very good VPNs for Iran like ExpressVPN and NordVPN have been recommended for their robust security features and ability to evade detection, though their effectiveness can vary.

Furthermore, for Iranians abroad and foreigners with connections to Iran, accessing local content like Iranian TV from overseas remains a priority.

You can still try to watch Iranian TV in the UK despite the increasing digital divide imposed by the Iranian government.

In conclusion, Iran’s additional restrictions on VPN usage represent a significant blow to digital freedoms within the country.

For foreigners living in Iran, the situation is particularly dire, as they face the dual challenges of accessing familiar web services and avoiding government scrutiny.

As the digital landscape in Iran becomes increasingly restricted, the international community must stand in solidarity with those fighting for their right to freely access information and express themselves online.