Coming soon: A ban on virtual private networks

The TLDR: A parliamentary committee recently recommended a total ban on virtual private networks aka VPNs. If implemented, it will have a significant impact on the data security of companies—and your right to privacy. We quickly explain why this will give the government total control over your internet access.

What is a VPN exactly?

Think of it as an encrypted tunnel that lets you browse the internet in total privacy. When you sign up for a VPN service, it first jumbles up all your data so no one can read it. And it hides your device’s unique IP address—rerouting it via one of its servers so it can’t be traced back to you. There are free VPN services and the paid variety. They are widely used by both individuals and companies.

And why would anyone use a VPN?

Here are a number of good reasons:

• You can protect your data when you are using public wi-fi networks, say, in a cafe. It hides information like browsing history, banking information, account passwords—which may be attractive to hackers. 
• You can hide your data from your internet provider. Without a VPN, an Airtel or Jio has access to all your online data. They can see exactly where, when and what you browse.
• VPNs can also block nosy apps like Facebook from collecting information about your activity—including location etc.
• The networks offer data security to companies when their employees are working from home or some other remote location. They can access the office network—and share or look at confidential information—without worrying about hackers.
• It helps you access geo-blocked sites and apps like TikTok or PuBG. And since you can pretend to be anywhere in the world, you can access Netflix US or Hulu—basically any kind of content that is not available online in India.

Why does the committee want to ban it?

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