{"pageProps":{"data":{"post":{"content":"\n\n
\n
\n

📌 TL;DR – Online Safety Act UK 2025

\n \n
\n
\n\n\n\n\n

What the Online Safety Act Covers

\n\n\n\n

The Online Safety Act 2023, officially enacted on 26 October 2023, is now fully enforced as of 25 July 2025. It mandates that platforms hosting any sort of user-generated content, like social media, forums, messaging apps, search engines, or file-sharing sites, comply with a new legal “duty of care” to protect UK users from harmful or illegal content. This includes materials promoting self-harm, extremist content, explicit adult material, and other serious risks. Large platforms face penalties up to £18 million or 10% of global turnover, whichever is greater.

\n\n\n\n

Age Gating

\n\n\n\n

From July 25, 2025, sites displaying adult content, or broader “priority” topics like self-harm, suicide, or eating disorders, must verify users are over 18 using highly effective tools, such as ID scans, facial recognition, credit card checks, or mobile verification. Platforms failing to comply may be blocked or fined by Ofcom.

\n\n\n\n

Filtering “Legal but Harmful” Content

\n\n\n\n

Even content that is not illegal, such as posts encouraging harmful behaviors or bullying, must be managed carefully. Platforms must proactively hide or filter this material from minors, and allow adults more control over what they see. Dedicated codes of practice and regular risk assessments are now standard.

\n\n\n\n

Transparency & Platform Accountability

\n\n\n\n

All services in scope must publicly disclose their safety policies, user-reporting tools, algorithmic controls, and outcomes. Those classified as Category 1 (e.g. global platforms) must also preserve political and journalistic content, ensuring that free expression isn’t unintentionally suppressed.

\n\n\n\n

Criminal Offenses for Online Harm

\n\n\n\n

The Act creates new criminal laws, including penalties for encouraging self-harm, cyber‑flashing, threatening violent messages, or targeting individuals with flashing imagery. The first convictions under these took place as recently as July 2025.

\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n

📌 Real Impacts for UK Internet Users

\n\n\n\n

Blocks, Restrictions & Privacy Concerns

\n\n\n\n

Many smaller forums and niche websites have responded to compliance costs by blocking UK access altogether. Even mainstream platforms like Reddit, Discord, and Bluesky now enforce verification flows, infuriating users who fear biometric scanning and ID leaks.

\n\n\n\n

There’s also rising anxiety over data protection. Uploading ID or biometric information to private entities touches on GDPR concerns and risks identity exposure or reuse without proper oversight.

\n\n\n\n

VPN Use Exploding

\n\n\n\n

Virtually overnight, VPN demand in the UK skyrocketed:

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

VPN apps surged to the top of Britain’s app-store charts, even overtaking ChatGPT in downloads. The spike shows public push-back against invasive age verification.

\n\n\n\n

Free Speech & Encryption Under Pressure

\n\n\n\n

Critics, ranging from civil liberties groups to Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, warn that the Act’s encryption-related powers may lead to censorship and surveillance. Ofcom retains the authority to demand weakening of end-to-end encryption, prompting backlash from providers like WhatsApp and Apple. Wikipedia has also launched legal action, refusing to enforce age checks on privacy and access grounds.

\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n

🔐 Why VPNs Are Emerging as a Lifeline

\n\n\n\n

1. Bypassing Geo-based Blocks & Age Hurdles

\n\n\n\n

A VPN can route your traffic through servers outside the UK, making it appear that you’re browsing from a location where age verification isn’t enforced, helping users regain access to formerly blocked or restricted sites.

\n\n\n\n

2. Shielding Your Identity

\n\n\n\n

VPNs encrypt your connection and hide your IP address, significantly reducing the risk that platforms can tie your browsing history to your identity, even after age-check processes.

\n\n\n\n

3. Avoiding Over-Filtering and Censorship

\n\n\n\n

If UK platforms overzealously filter “legal but harmful” content, VPNs allow access to uncensored versions of forums, communities, or resources that might otherwise be hidden, or wrongly blocked.

\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n

🏆 Best VPNs for the UK Online Safety Act

\n\n\n\n
\n

ExpressVPN

\n
\n
\n
\n \"ExpressVPN\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Features

\n
\n
    \n
  • Number of servers: More than 3,000
    • \n
  • Speeds: Unlimited
    • \n
  • Server locations: 160 in 105 countries
    • \n
  • Maximum devices supported: 8
    • \n
  • 24 live chat: Yes
    • \n
  • 30-day money-back guarantee: Yes
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Pros/Cons

\n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Fastest VPN out there
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n Strict no logs policy
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n 256-bit AES encryption
    • \n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Slightly more expensive than others
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n Visit ExpressVPN \n \n \n \n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n Visit ExpressVPN >>\n
\n
\n
\n\n\n
\n

NordVPN

\n
\n
\n
\n \"NordVPN\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Features

\n
\n
    \n
  • Cryptocurrency accepted? Yes
    • \n
  • Simultaneous connections: 10
    • \n
  • Dedicated IP-addresses? Yes
    • \n
  • Servers: 7,700+ in 118 countries
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Pros/Cons

\n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Lots of pricing options
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n Netflix support kept up to date
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n 256-bit AES encryption
    • \n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Slow app
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n Visit NordVPN \n \n \n \n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n Visit NordVPN >>\n
\n
\n
\n\n\n
\n

Surfshark

\n
\n
\n
\n \"Surfshark\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Features

\n
\n
    \n
  • Servers: 3200+ in 100 countries
    • \n
  • Antivirus: Surfshark One & One+ Plans
    • \n
  • Simultaneous connections: Unlimited
    • \n
  • Ad blocking? Yes
    • \n
  • Cookie Pop-up Blocker: Yes
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Pros/Cons

\n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Unlimited simultaneous connections
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n User-friendly VPN app
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n 256-bit AES encryption & no-logs
    • \n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Expensive for one-month plans
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n Try Surfshark \n \n \n \n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n Try Surfshark >>\n
\n
\n
\n\n\n
\n

ProtonVPN

\n
\n
\n
\n \"ProtonVPN\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Features

\n
\n
    \n
  • P2P support? Yes
    • \n
  • 30-day money-back guarantee? Yes
    • \n
  • Country of origin? Switzerland
    • \n
  • Servers: 13,000+ in over 120+ countries
    • \n
  • Simultaneous devices: 10
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Pros/Cons

\n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Professional support
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n Modern interface and apps
    • \n
  • \n \n \n \n AES-256 encryption
    • \n
\n
    \n
  • \n \n \n \n Lesser known provider
    • \n
\n
\n
\n
\n Try ProtonVPN \n \n \n \n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n Try ProtonVPN >>\n
\n
\n
\n\n\n

📖Reviews of the Best VPNs for UK Users

\n\n\n\n

Check out our in-depth review of the top VPNs that will help you bypass new regulations imposed by the UK Online Safety Act:

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

✅ Advice for UK Readers

\n\n\n\n
TipWhy it matters
Choose audited VPNs with no‑log policiesMinimises privacy risks if age verification data is leaked
Understand age‑gate safety netsDifferent platforms use different verification methods—know what’s required
Use VPNs responsiblyVPN use doesn’t override UK law—illegal content is still illegal
Stay informed on ongoing legal challengesPlatforms like Wikipedia are contesting parts of the Act in court; outcomes may change compliance expectations
\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n

đŸ§© Summary

\n\n\n\n

The Online Safety Act represents a sweeping overhaul of internet regulation in the UK: mandatory age checks, duty‑of‑care clauses, and new criminal offences. While intended to safeguard users, especially children, it also raises serious concerns about data privacy, access restrictions, and free expression. For many, VPNs have become the go‑to tool for staying private and retaining access, and the surge in VPN usage reflects widespread unease with the Act’s enforcement.

\n\n\n\n\n \"ExpressVPN\n \"ExpressVPN\n

Get 73% off now

\n \n\n\n\n

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Online Safety Act & VPNs in 2025

\n\n\n\n
What is the Online Safety Act and why was it introduced?

The Online Safety Act is a UK law designed to make online platforms safer, particularly for minors. It requires companies to actively remove illegal content and restrict access to harmful material like self-harm encouragement, pornography, or cyberbullying.

Do all websites have to follow the new rules?

Not all, but any site or app that allows user interaction or user-generated content—such as comments, messages, or uploads—is likely covered. This includes global services operating in the UK, regardless of where they’re based.

Why am I seeing age verification screens everywhere now?

As of July 2025, sites offering adult or sensitive content are legally required to confirm you’re over 18. Some ask for government-issued ID, others use mobile or payment verification. It’s part of the new compliance standards.

Why are VPNs suddenly so popular in the UK?

The act led to widespread concern about privacy and access restrictions. Many users now turn to VPNs to avoid intrusive ID checks, access platforms that have blocked UK users, and browse with more anonymity.

Can a VPN help me get around age checks or platform blocks?

Yes, a VPN can route your traffic through a country that doesn’t require age verification or isn’t affected by UK restrictions. This may allow access to content or services that would otherwise be blocked.

Is it legal to use a VPN in the UK?

Yes. Using a VPN is perfectly legal in the UK. However, using it to engage in illegal activity or access prohibited content still breaks the law, regardless of your VPN.

What data do age verification systems collect?

Depending on the method, they might request ID scans, facial recognition data, credit card details, or phone verification. This has raised serious concerns about data security and GDPR compliance.

Could the government access my messages or private data under this law?

While the law doesn’t explicitly grant surveillance powers, it allows Ofcom to request message scanning or encryption changes, especially on large messaging platforms. This has sparked major privacy debates.

Are some websites blocking UK users because of this law?

Yes. Some niche communities and adult content providers have opted to block UK visitors instead of investing in complex compliance systems. Others have limited certain features like commenting or chat access.

Which VPNs are best for protecting privacy post-legislation?

Top-rated options include ExpressVPN for streaming and security, NordVPN for built-in malware and ad-blocking, Surfshark for value and unlimited devices, Proton VPN for privacy-first design, and CyberGhost for streaming ease.

\n","title":"🚩 How the UK Online Safety Act Transforms Your Digital Life (& Why VPNs Are Booming)","slug":"uk-online-safety-act","databaseId":38682,"modifiedGmt":"2025-07-30T13:53:43","dateGmt":"2025-07-30T13:51:05","language":{"slug":"en"},"categories":{"nodes":[{"name":"Blog","slug":"blog","uri":"/blog"}]},"tags":{"nodes":[{"name":"Security News","slug":"security-news","uri":"/tag/security-news"}]},"translations":[],"subject":{"postSubject":"generic"},"postsAuthor":{"author":{"slug":"gregory-hornet","expertInfo":{"name":"Gregory Hornet","image":{"sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/author-gregory-hornet.png"}}}},"articlePopupNew":{"popupProvider":null},"articleSidebar":{"hideMobileToc":null,"sidebarProviders":[{"slug":"expressvpn","providersInfo":{"name":"ExpressVPN","longLogo":{"altText":"","sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/expressvpn-logo-red.svg","mediaDetails":{"height":150,"width":782}},"overallScore":9.8,"pros":[{"pro":"Fastest VPN out there"},{"pro":"Strict no logs policy"},{"pro":"256-bit AES encryption"}],"buttonTextVariable":"Visit %%name%%","savePercentage":"73","inlineCtaTextAfter":"% off now","plans":[{"price":"$3.49 / mo","text":"24 Months - Basic"},{"price":"$4.49 /mo","text":"24 Months - Advanced"},{"price":"$7.49 /mo","text":"24 Months - Pro"},{"price":"$4.99 /mo","text":"12 Months - Basic"},{"price":"$5.99 /mo","text":"12 Months - Advanced"},{"price":"$8.99 /mo","text":"12 Months - Pro"},{"price":"$12.99 /mo","text":"1 Month - Basic"},{"price":"$13.99 /mo","text":"1 Month - Advanced"},{"price":"$19.99 /mo","text":"1 Month - Pro"}]}},{"slug":"nordvpn","providersInfo":{"name":"NordVPN","longLogo":{"altText":"","sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/NordvpnlogoNewWide.png","mediaDetails":{"height":180,"width":440}},"overallScore":9.6,"pros":[{"pro":"Lots of pricing options"},{"pro":"Netflix support kept up to date"},{"pro":"256-bit AES encryption"}],"buttonTextVariable":"Visit %%name%%","savePercentage":"77","inlineCtaTextAfter":"% off now","plans":[{"price":"$15.17 /mo","text":"1 Month"},{"price":"$5.83 /mo","text":"1 Year"},{"price":"$3.96 /mo","text":"2 Years + 3 Months FREE"}]}},{"slug":"surfshark","providersInfo":{"name":"Surfshark","longLogo":{"altText":"Surfshark logo","sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Surfshark-02-01-768x198.png","mediaDetails":{"height":529,"width":2048}},"overallScore":9.5,"pros":[{"pro":"Unlimited simultaneous connections"},{"pro":"User-friendly VPN app"},{"pro":"256-bit AES encryption & no-logs"}],"buttonTextVariable":"Try %%name%%","savePercentage":"87","inlineCtaTextAfter":"% off now","plans":[{"price":"$18.04 /mo","text":"1 Month"},{"price":"$3.73 /mo","text":"1 Year"},{"price":"$2.32 /mo","text":"2 Years"}]}},{"slug":"protonvpn","providersInfo":{"name":"ProtonVPN","longLogo":{"altText":"ProtonVPN logo","sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/protonvpn-logo-long-768x173.png","mediaDetails":{"height":462,"width":2048}},"overallScore":9.4,"pros":[{"pro":"Professional support"},{"pro":"Modern interface and apps"},{"pro":"AES-256 encryption"}],"buttonTextVariable":"Try %%name%%","savePercentage":"64","inlineCtaTextAfter":"% off now","plans":[{"price":" ","text":"Free"},{"price":"$11.66 /mo","text":"1 Month"},{"price":"$4.66 /mo","text":"1 Year"},{"price":"$4.19 /mo","text":"2 Years"},{"price":"$17.50 /mo","text":"Duo"}]}}],"specificTitle":null,"newTitle":null,"specificContent":null,"bulletpointsFirst":null,"bulletpointsSecond":null},"featuredImage":{"node":{"altText":"UK Online Safety Act","sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UK-online-safety-act.jpg","mediaDetails":{"height":768,"width":1408}}},"seo":{"title":"Online Safety Act UK 2025: What It Means & Why VPN Use Is Surging","canonical":"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act","schema":{"raw":"{\"@context\":\"https://schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"VPN Team\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#/schema/person/804660a04502f95f10a10c7bdb582dc1\"},\"headline\":\"\\ud83d\\udea6 How the UK Online Safety Act Transforms Your Digital Life (& Why VPNs Are Booming)\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-07-30T13:51:05+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-07-30T13:53:43+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act\"},\"wordCount\":1301,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UK-online-safety-act.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"Security News\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Blog\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act\",\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act\",\"name\":\"Online Safety Act UK 2025: What It Means & Why VPN Use Is Surging\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UK-online-safety-act.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-07-30T13:51:05+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-07-30T13:53:43+00:00\",\"description\":\"The UK Online Safety Act is now in force. Learn how it affects your digital rights and why more users are turning to VPNs for privacy.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777688095\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777701979\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777717272\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777730935\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777731915\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777751178\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777752070\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777799699\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777800452\"},{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777826763\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UK-online-safety-act.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UK-online-safety-act.jpg\",\"width\":1408,\"height\":768,\"caption\":\"UK Online Safety Act\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"\\ud83d\\udea6 How the UK Online Safety Act Transforms Your Digital Life (& Why VPNs Are Booming)\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#website\",\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/\",\"name\":\"TechShielder\",\"description\":\"TechShielder is a website about internet security and online privacy. We cover what you need to know about the latest trends and products that can help you stay safe online.\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#organization\",\"name\":\"Techshielder\",\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#/schema/logo/image/\",\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Techshielder-logo-1.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Techshielder-logo-1.png\",\"width\":451,\"height\":145,\"caption\":\"Techshielder\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#/schema/logo/image/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#/schema/person/804660a04502f95f10a10c7bdb582dc1\",\"name\":\"VPN Team\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/#/schema/person/image/\",\"url\":\"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d1cdda8b0842eb0490b62c48b2a677c0c6f91f00a7d43a63437c0789572d3962?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/d1cdda8b0842eb0490b62c48b2a677c0c6f91f00a7d43a63437c0789572d3962?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"VPN Team\"},\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/author/vpn-team\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777688095\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777688095\",\"name\":\"What is the Online Safety Act and why was it introduced?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The Online Safety Act is a UK law designed to make online platforms safer, particularly for minors. It requires companies to actively remove illegal content and restrict access to harmful material like self-harm encouragement, pornography, or cyberbullying.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777701979\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777701979\",\"name\":\"Do all websites have to follow the new rules?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Not all, but any site or app that allows user interaction or user-generated content\\u2014such as comments, messages, or uploads\\u2014is likely covered. This includes global services operating in the UK, regardless of where they\\u2019re based.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777717272\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777717272\",\"name\":\"Why am I seeing age verification screens everywhere now?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"As of July 2025, sites offering adult or sensitive content are legally required to confirm you're over 18. Some ask for government-issued ID, others use mobile or payment verification. It's part of the new compliance standards.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777730935\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777730935\",\"name\":\"Why are VPNs suddenly so popular in the UK?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The act led to widespread concern about privacy and access restrictions. Many users now turn to VPNs to avoid intrusive ID checks, access platforms that have blocked UK users, and browse with more anonymity.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777731915\",\"position\":5,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777731915\",\"name\":\"Can a VPN help me get around age checks or platform blocks?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, a VPN can route your traffic through a country that doesn\\u2019t require age verification or isn\\u2019t affected by UK restrictions. This may allow access to content or services that would otherwise be blocked.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777751178\",\"position\":6,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777751178\",\"name\":\"Is it legal to use a VPN in the UK?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. Using a VPN is perfectly legal in the UK. However, using it to engage in illegal activity or access prohibited content still breaks the law, regardless of your VPN.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777752070\",\"position\":7,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777752070\",\"name\":\"What data do age verification systems collect?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Depending on the method, they might request ID scans, facial recognition data, credit card details, or phone verification. This has raised serious concerns about data security and GDPR compliance.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777799699\",\"position\":8,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777799699\",\"name\":\"Could the government access my messages or private data under this law?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"While the law doesn\\u2019t explicitly grant surveillance powers, it allows Ofcom to request message scanning or encryption changes, especially on large messaging platforms. This has sparked major privacy debates.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777800452\",\"position\":9,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777800452\",\"name\":\"Are some websites blocking UK users because of this law?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. Some niche communities and adult content providers have opted to block UK visitors instead of investing in complex compliance systems. Others have limited certain features like commenting or chat access.
\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777826763\",\"position\":10,\"url\":\"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act#faq-question-1753777826763\",\"name\":\"Which VPNs are best for protecting privacy post-legislation?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Top-rated options include ExpressVPN for streaming and security, NordVPN for built-in malware and ad-blocking, Surfshark for value and unlimited devices, Proton VPN for privacy-first design, and CyberGhost for streaming ease.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}"},"metaDesc":"The UK Online Safety Act is now in force. Learn how it affects your digital rights and why more users are turning to VPNs for privacy.","metaRobotsNoindex":"index","metaRobotsNofollow":"follow","twitterImage":null,"twitterTitle":"","twitterDescription":"","opengraphAuthor":"","opengraphSiteName":"Techshielder","opengraphPublisher":"","opengraphDescription":"The UK Online Safety Act is now in force. Learn how it affects your digital rights and why more users are turning to VPNs for privacy.","opengraphModifiedTime":"2025-07-30T13:53:43+00:00","opengraphPublishedTime":"2025-07-30T13:51:05+00:00","opengraphUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/uk-online-safety-act","opengraphType":"article","opengraphImage":{"sourceUrl":"https://wp.techshielder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/UK-online-safety-act.jpg"}},"relatedArticles":{"hideRelatedArticles":null,"list":[{"id":"cG9zdDozODY4Mg==","title":"🚩 How the UK Online Safety Act Transforms Your Digital Life (& Why VPNs Are Booming)","slug":"uk-online-safety-act","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDozNzgxMg==","title":"Skype Shuts Down in 2025: What You Need to Know and 5 Tools to Replace It","slug":"skype-shuts-down-in-2025-5-alternatives","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDozNjcyMw==","title":"Best VPN Tools for Online Dating: How You Can Keep Your Data Safe on Dating Apps","slug":"best-vpn-tools-for-online-dating-how-you-can-keep-your-data-safe-on-dating-apps","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDozMzEyOA==","title":"Hacker Hotspots: The Apps Most Vulnerable to Cybercrime","slug":"hacker-hotspots-most-vulnerable-apps","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDozMjgwOQ==","title":"How Much Does Your Home Know About You?","slug":"how-much-does-your-home-know-about-you","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDozMDU5MQ==","title":"Is DuckDuckGo a VPN? | Guide: How to use DuckDuckGo","slug":"how-to-use-duckduckgo-and-a-vpn-for-online-privacy","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDoyNTk2MQ==","title":"The Cost of Piracy","slug":"the-cost-of-piracy","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDoyNTMwNQ==","title":"REvil Ransomware Exploits Kaseya’s Remote IT Management Software to Attack Systems","slug":"revil-ransomware-exploits-kaseyas-software-to-attack-systems","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDoyNDM5OA==","title":"Catfish Analysis: The Countries with the Highest Rates","slug":"catfish-analysis-the-countries-with-the-highest-rates","language":{"slug":"en"}},{"id":"cG9zdDoyNDIxNw==","title":"The Best Cities For A Cybersecurity Job","slug":"the-best-cities-for-a-cybersecurity-job","language":{"slug":"en"}}]}},"headerMenu":{"nodes":[{"label":"VPN Reviews","path":"/review"},{"label":"Blog","path":"/blog"},{"label":"Guides","path":"/guides"},{"label":"About us","path":"/about-us"}]},"footerMenu":{"nodes":[{"label":"Our services","childItems":{"nodes":[{"path":"/blog","label":"Blog"},{"path":"/review","label":"VPN Reviews"},{"path":"/about-us","label":"About us"},{"path":"/contact-us","label":"Contact us"},{"path":"/cookie-policy","label":"Cookie Policy"},{"path":"/privacy-policy","label":"Privacy Policy"}]}},{"label":"Blog","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"VPN Reviews","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"About us","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Contact us","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Cookie Policy","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Privacy Policy","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Reviews","childItems":{"nodes":[{"path":"/expressvpn-review","label":"ExpressVPN Review"},{"path":"/nordvpn-review","label":"NordVPN Review"},{"path":"/surfshark-review","label":"SurfShark Review"},{"path":"/protonvpn-review","label":"ProtonVPN Review"},{"path":"/cyberghost-review","label":"CyberGhost Review"}]}},{"label":"ExpressVPN Review","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"NordVPN Review","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"SurfShark Review","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"ProtonVPN Review","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"CyberGhost Review","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"VPN","childItems":{"nodes":[{"path":"/best-vpn-for-porn","label":"Best VPN for Porn: How To Unblock Porn Sites and Stream Anonymously"},{"path":"/formula-1-live-stream","label":"When and How to Watch Formula 1: Grand Prix F1 Calendar 2025"},{"path":"/best-vpn-for-spotify","label":"Best VPN for Spotify to Use Abroad in 2024"},{"path":"/best-vpn-for-amazon-prime","label":"Best VPNs for Amazon Prime Video 2024: Unblock Amazon Prime"},{"path":"/best-free-vpns-that-work-with-netflix","label":"Best Free VPNs That Work With Netflix in 2024"},{"path":"/best-vpn-for-iphone","label":"Best VPN for Apple iPhone – Your Guide to the Top iPhone VPNs"}]}},{"label":"Best VPN for Porn: How To Unblock Porn Sites and Stream Anonymously","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"When and How to Watch Formula 1: Grand Prix F1 Calendar 2025","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Best VPN for Spotify to Use Abroad in 2024","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Best VPNs for Amazon Prime Video 2024: Unblock Amazon Prime","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Best Free VPNs That Work With Netflix in 2024","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Best VPN for Apple iPhone – Your Guide to the Top iPhone VPNs","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Internet security","childItems":{"nodes":[{"path":"/how-to-secure-your-device-from-cybercriminals","label":"How to Secure Your Device From Cybercriminals"},{"path":"/7-tips-to-help-you-stay-secure-on-the-internet","label":"7 Tips to Help You Stay Secure on the Internet"},{"path":"/are-antiviruses-enough-to-keep-you-secure-online","label":"Are Antiviruses Enough to Keep You Secure Online?"},{"path":"/6-tips-to-make-online-shopping-more-secure","label":"6 Tips to Make Online Shopping More Secure"},{"path":"/internet-security-tips-for-beginners","label":"Internet Security Tips for Beginners"}]}},{"label":"How to Secure Your Device From Cybercriminals","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"7 Tips to Help You Stay Secure on the Internet","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Are Antiviruses Enough to Keep You Secure Online?","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"6 Tips to Make Online Shopping More Secure","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Internet Security Tips for Beginners","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Other","childItems":{"nodes":[{"path":"/human-sitemap","label":"Human sitemap"},{"path":"https://techrobot.com/es/","label":"Español"},{"path":"https://techrobot.com/de/","label":"Deutsch"},{"path":"https://vpnportalen.se/","label":"Svenska"},{"path":"https://vpnportalen.dk/","label":"Dansk"},{"path":"https://vpnportalen.no/","label":"Norsk"}]}},{"label":"Human sitemap","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Español","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Deutsch","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Svenska","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Dansk","childItems":{"nodes":[]}},{"label":"Norsk","childItems":{"nodes":[]}}]},"disclaimerMessage":{"nodes":[{"title":"Disclaimer – EN","disclaimer":{"buttonText":"How We Rate","caption":"We receive advertising fees from the brands we review that affect the ranking and scoring of such brands.","message":"We base our ratings on a combination of expert research and user feedback. By examining features, reliability, value for money, and product/service quality, we ensure that each product or service is assessed fairly. Our goal is to provide transparent, accurate, and reliable information to help you make an informed purchase decision."}}]}},"isReview":false,"translations":{"lang":"en","translations":{"taxonomies":{"blog":"blog","review":"review","featured":"featured","top":"top","guides":"guides","internet-security":"internet-security","security-news":"security-news","featured-guides":"featured-guide","best-vpn":"best-vpn","vpn":"vpn","vpn-comparison":"vpn-comparison"},"common":{"recommendationTitle":"Our recommendations","contentsTitle":"Table of contents","seeAllLabel":"See all","ourExperts":"Our experts","loadMoreLabel":"Load more","authorFeaturedPostsTitle":"Featured articles by","authorNoFeaturedPosts":"This expert has no featured posts","readMoreLabel":"Read More","readLessLabel":"Read Less","relatedPosts":"Related Posts","footerFollowUs":"Follow us on:","footerCopyright":"We strive for privacy. Copyright"},"review":{"reviewsTitle":"Reviews","scoreLabel":"Our score:","readReviewLabel":"Read review","menuComparisonTitle":"VPN Comparisons","menuBestVPNTitle":"Find the best VPN for you","speedScoreText":"Speed","locationsScoreText":"Locations","priceScoreText":"Price","customerSupportScoreText":"Customer Support","usabilityScoreText":"Usability","updatedText":"Updated:"}}}},"__N_SSG":true}