Defend VPNs Day of Action Returns as Global Restrictions Escalate

Digital rights group Fight for the Future is leading the second annual Defend VPNs Day of Action on September 25, rallying global opposition to legislative efforts restricting VPN usage. The campaign highlights growing attempts in the US, UK, Russia, and other regions to limit VPNs under the guise of age verification and online ID checks—measures critics say threaten privacy and access to information.

Defend VPNs Day of Action Returns

Digital rights group Fight for the Future is leading the second annual Defend VPNs Day of Action on September 25, mobilizing global support against legislative efforts to restrict or ban VPN usage. According to TechRadar, the campaign aims to raise awareness about growing threats to online privacy and access, particularly as governments tie VPN restrictions to age verification and online ID laws.

Sarah Philips, Campaign Director at Fight for the Future, stated that VPNs are essential for vulnerable populations to bypass censorship, access healthcare, and connect with loved ones. The group claims that legislative efforts to limit VPNs could disproportionately impact marginalized communities and restrict free expression online.

US States Lead Push for VPN Restrictions

In the US, Utah became the first state to target VPNs in an age verification law with SB 73, according to reports. The law is framed as a measure to protect minors online, but critics argue it sets a precedent for broader restrictions on privacy tools.

Michigan has proposed even stricter measures. A pending bill seeks to fine internet service providers (ISPs) up to $500,000 for promoting VPNs, which lawmakers claim could be used to circumvent age checks or other restrictions. Advocates warn that such laws could stifle innovation and limit consumer access to secure communication tools.

Global Crackdown on VPNs Accelerates

VPN restrictions are not limited to the US. According to TechRadar, Russia has blocked 469 VPNs as of February, using bulk IP blocks and app store removals to limit access. Amnezia VPN, a privacy-focused service, reportedly took six weeks to recover from a targeted disruption in June.

The UK is also advancing measures to prevent users from bypassing age verification checks, effectively discouraging VPN use. The European Union has signaled that VPNs could face scrutiny following its recent announcement of potential social media bans for teens. In Brazil, VPN usage has been classified as an aggravating factor in criminal cases, while countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the UAE are expanding youth social media bans, increasing pressure on VPN providers.

VPNs as Lifelines for Vulnerable Populations

Advocates argue that VPNs are critical for populations facing censorship, surveillance, or restricted access to information. According to reports, vulnerable groups rely on VPNs to reach healthcare services, communicate with family, and access uncensored news. Restrictions on VPNs could limit these lifelines, particularly in regions with oppressive digital policies.

The campaign has gained support from VPN providers like Amnezia VPN, IPVanish, Surfshark, and Opear VPN Pro, which are participating in the Day of Action to highlight the importance of unrestricted access to privacy tools.

Developing: what is not yet confirmed

The following is reported but has not been independently confirmed.

TechRadar reports that Fight for the Future engaged around 20,000 people during the first Defend VPNs Day of Action in 2025, but this figure has not been independently verified.

What this means

LazyFounders analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

For founders and operators, this campaign signals a growing regulatory risk to tools that enable privacy and unrestricted internet access. VPNs are not just consumer products—they’re essential for secure business communications, remote work, and accessing global markets. If restrictions expand, startups may face higher compliance costs, limited access to privacy-preserving technologies, or even region-locked operations. The trend also highlights a broader tension between digital rights and government oversight, which could shape future internet regulations worldwide. Founders in cybersecurity, remote work, or global services should monitor these developments closely and consider advocating for policies that preserve open access to privacy tools.

Key takeaways

• Fight for the Future’s Defend VPNs Day of Action highlights global efforts to restrict VPN usage under age verification and online ID laws.
• VPN restrictions are already law in Utah and proposed in Michigan, with fines for ISPs promoting VPNs.
• Russia has blocked hundreds of VPNs, while the UK, EU, Brazil, and others are increasing scrutiny.
• VPNs are vital for vulnerable groups to access healthcare, information, and loved ones, as well as for businesses operating globally.
• Regulatory trends could impact startups relying on VPNs for privacy, security, or market access.

FAQ

What is Defend VPNs Day of Action?

Defend VPNs Day of Action is an annual campaign led by digital rights group Fight for the Future to oppose legislative efforts restricting or banning VPN usage. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of VPNs for privacy, access to information, and free expression.

Why are governments targeting VPNs?

Governments often justify VPN restrictions as part of broader efforts to enforce age verification, prevent circumvention of online ID checks, or curb illegal activity. Critics argue these measures enable censorship, surveillance, and restrictions on free expression.

How could VPN restrictions impact startups and businesses?

VPN restrictions could limit secure communication tools for remote teams, increase compliance costs, and create barriers for startups operating in or accessing global markets. Businesses relying on VPNs for privacy, security, or cross-border operations may face higher regulatory risks or limited tool options.

Which regions are currently restricting VPNs?

Utah and Michigan have proposed or passed laws targeting VPNs, while Russia, the UK, the EU, Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the UAE are increasing scrutiny or restrictions on VPN usage.

Related on LazyFounders

• TechRadar
• More policy news