Story perspectives

Ofcom Monitors VPNs, Sparking Privacy and Free Speech Concerns

11/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, is monitoring virtual private networks (VPN) usage after the Online Safety Act's introduction.
It uses an AI tool whose identity Ofcom has not disclosed, raising privacy and accuracy concerns.
Civil society groups warn restricting VPNs could harm free expression, even as Ofcom says no personal data is accessed.
Although a blanket VPN ban is unlikely, the approach risks setting a precedent and inviting transparency demands.

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Story summary

Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, is monitoring virtual private networks (VPN) usage after the Online Safety Act's introduction.
It uses an AI tool whose identity Ofcom has not disclosed, raising privacy and accuracy concerns.
Civil society groups warn restricting VPNs could harm free expression, even as Ofcom says no personal data is accessed.
Although a blanket VPN ban is unlikely, the approach risks setting a precedent and inviting transparency demands.