Why VPN Bans Threaten Privacy, Business, and Digital Security

Legislators Target VPNs and They Don’t Understand the Tech

Recently, lawmakers in states like Wisconsin (via bills A.B. 105 / S.B. 130) have proposed requiring websites that publish “sexual content” to block users connecting through VPNs. The scope is broad: every site deemed to contain material “harmful to minors” would have to deny VPN users access.

"Electronic Frontier Foundation"

The motivation, as framed by supporters, is protecting children. But the proposed rule misunderstands how VPNs work and threatens privacy, business operations, education, and civil liberties.

What Are VPNs and Why Are They Important?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, masking your real IP address. VPNs are essential for:

• Businesses: Protecting sensitive data, enabling secure remote work, and safeguarding internal communications.
• Individuals: Ensuring privacy, avoiding tracking, and accessing geo-restricted content.
• Vulnerable Communities: Providing safety for journalists, activists, and marginalized groups in hostile environments.

Why VPN Bans Won’t Work

Proposed VPN bans are built on a fundamental misunderstanding of how the technology works. Here’s why they’re doomed to fail:

• Websites Can’t Detect VPN Users’ Locations: VPNs mask your real location, so websites only see the VPN server’s IP address. It’s technically impossible to block “VPN users from Wisconsin” without blocking all VPN traffic globally.
• Workarounds Are Easy: Even if commercial VPNs are blocked, users can spin up their own VPNs using cloud services, proxies, or other methods. The internet always finds a way around censorship.
• Collateral Damage: To comply with such laws, websites would have to block all VPN traffic, disrupting legitimate users who rely on VPNs for security and privacy.

The Broader Risks of VPN Bans

The implications of banning VPNs go far beyond individual users. Here’s what’s at stake:

• Privacy Erosion: Without VPNs, users may be forced to verify their age by uploading government IDs, biometric data, or credit card information. This creates massive databases of sensitive information, ripe for hacking and misuse.
• Censorship and Surveillance: Broad definitions of “harmful content” could lead to censorship of legitimate resources, such as LGBTQ+ health information or educational materials.
• Precedent for Government Overreach: Labeling privacy tools as “loopholes” sets a dangerous precedent, paving the way for more invasive controls over internet usage.

What Should Be Done Instead?

Rather than targeting VPNs, lawmakers should focus on solutions that address the root causes of online harm without compromising privacy and security. Here’s what can be done:

• Target Actual Harmful Actors: Focus on combating illegal content and exploitation, rather than sweeping bans on privacy tools.
• Empower Parents and Guardians: Provide tools and resources for parents to monitor and filter content for their children, rather than enforcing universal surveillance.
• Strengthen Privacy Protections: Policies should enhance privacy and security, not undermine them. Privacy is a fundamental right, not a loophole.

Conclusion: Protect Privacy, Don’t Destroy It

VPN bans, like those proposed in Wisconsin, are misguided attempts to address complex issues with overly simplistic solutions. They misunderstand the technology, harm legitimate users, and set a dangerous precedent for privacy and freedom online.

At EZETech, we believe in empowering businesses and individuals with the tools they need to stay secure and private in an increasingly connected world. If you’re concerned about how these laws might impact your business or personal privacy, we’re here to help.

Worried About Your Business’s Privacy and Security?

At EZETech, we specialize in helping businesses navigate complex IT challenges. Whether you need advice on secure remote work solutions, VPN setup, or protecting your data, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s safeguard your digital future together!