VPN demand triples in Pakistan as citizens increasingly turn to virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass social media restrictions. According to a report by Top10VPN, the demand for VPN services surged significantly following the tightening of online platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook. The increase coincided with disruptions reported on November 25 and 26, during which VPN usage spiked by 102% and 213%, respectively, compared to the daily average; this trend reflects growing frustration among users facing restricted access to essential communication tools.
VPN Demand Triples in Pakistan: What Are the Key Factors Driving the Surge
The spike in VPN usage was triggered by widespread disruptions to social media platforms, especially during political demonstrations organized by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Reports from Downdetector.com highlighted issues with WhatsApp media sharing, alongside disruptions on other platforms like TikTok and Instagram. These restrictions forced many to rely on VPNs to access blocked services. While VPNs provided a workaround, users also encountered slower internet speeds, adding to their frustrations.
Impacts of Internet Restrictions
The internet disruptions, particularly in Punjab regions like Multan, Rajanpur, Gujrat, and Dera Ghazi Khan, have raised citizen concerns. The government cited security measures as the rationale for restricting internet access in certain areas, though they refrained from commenting on specific social media disruptions. As VPNs become a critical tool for staying connected, slow internet speeds have compounded the difficulties, limiting the effectiveness of these solutions. The ongoing restrictions have had people discussing digital rights and the implications of government-imposed limitations on communication.
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