There’s no doubt that virtual private networks (VPNs) represent significant business in 2024, while it’s set to grow to $4,209.1 million by the year 2028. It will achieve a CAGR of 11.3% during the next four years.

Despite this, of course, there remains significant uncertainty around the function of VPNs and their potential applications. There are even legal concerns about the use of VPNs, particularly in certain jurisdictions and when engaging in specific activities.

But what’s the truth about VPNs, and are they completely legal to use at all times? Let’s get into it!

What is a VPN?

A VPN works by creating an encrypted tunnel between your device and a virtual server, which exists remote and is operated by the client. When connected, all of your web traffic is routed through this tunnel, creating an extra layer of network protection that safeguards your data.

This not only prevents third parties from accessing your data (including ISPs), but a VPN will mask your IP address and physical location when you connect to a remote server.

This makes you less vulnerable to malicious malware attacks and practices such as doxing, while enabling you to access geo-restricted locations in regions across the globe.

Why is This an Issue?

This is where the lines can become blurred when using a VPN. This technology affords you far greater freedom and privacy online, but they also enable you to circumnavigate geo restrictions (such as those imposed by Netflix) and access different content libraries.

So, companies like Netflix may use technology to identify VPN usage and block devices that are suspected of using a remote server.

On a more fundamental level, the greater freedom granted by VPNs enables users to seek out information and content from across the globe. This is frowned on by authoritarian governments, including those in China, Russia, Iran and similar countries.

In nations of this type, VPN usage is either expressly illegal or heavily restricted, and failing to adhere to such guidelines could result in serious sanctions.

Legality vs Terms of Service

If you reside in the UK or the US, however, the use of VPNs is legal. Certainly, no explicit laws exist to prohibit VPN usage in these jurisdictions, although they obviously cannot be used to engage in already illegal acts.

However, different service providers in the US and UK (including Netflix) have unique terms of service that are laid out when you subscribe or sign up.The same principle applies in the iGaming market, as you may not be able to leverage the Stake code India as a UK resident and VPN user.

In this case, the terms of service will outlaw the use of a VPN, meaning that this practice is prohibited in this particular instance. So, although you won’t face criminal charges if you’re found to have breached such terms, Netflix and similar service providers do have the autonomy to restrict or close your account.

There’s a clear distinction between legality and terms of service, but you’ll need to consider both when using a VPN connection. However, there’s nothing expressly illegal about using such technology in the UK, and leveraging a VPN for streaming or gaming won’t result in criminal action.