- Free VPNs are among the most downloaded apps in the UK App Store
- An increase in downloads follows the introduction of an age verification law
- Users could put their privacy at risk with less reputable free VPNs
VPNs are now among the most downloaded apps in British app stores after Implementation of age verification. As of July 25, 2025, the UK’s new law requires that sites hosting content that is considered adults to perform age verification checks.
Internet users in the UK must prove that they are over 18 using verification methods, including the estimation of the facial age – shares a selfie or video – or uploads a form of ID. The new law also affects social media platforms, including Reddit, X and Bluesky.
Age verification comes as the government seems to protect minors from harmful content under the Online Security Act. Some of Best VPN Apps now top the Apple App Store and Google Play Store when users seem to be bypassing age control.
Free VPNs dominate Apple’s British App Store
At the time of writing, Proton VPN Leading the best free apps in the UK’s Apple App Store. The Swiss VPN provider reported an increase of 1,800% in registrations over the weekend after the new law’s implementation.
NordvpnVPN – Super Unlimited Proxy and Free VPN of Free VPN.org also make the five most downloaded free apps in England.
The increase in VPN -Downloads comes despite ofCOM, the UK’s Internet regulator, which discourages the use of VPNs to bypass verification. The told the BBC It would be illegal for platforms to promote VPNs as a means of getting around age control.
At the time of writing, over 420,000 people have signed one Petition of Running the Online Security ActWith many concerned about the privacy risks that age verification carries.
The meaning of choosing a reputable VPN
Ofcom’s insurance policies that “Strong age control can be performed effectively, safely and in a way that protects [user] Privacy ”may not be enough to ease concerns in the middle of Recent high -profile data violations.
A vpn, or Virtual private networkis a privacy tool that encrypts your internet traffic so you can browse privately. By connecting to a VPN server, you can secure your connection to the verification provider, reducing the risk of problems if they are victims of a data violation.
The problem with some free VPNs that are among those mostly downloaded by the UK App Store users is that these apps can log excessive data, identify users and put privacy at risk. They may also lack important security features – such as strong encryption – that help keep the user data secure.
Proton VPN Free from Privacy-First Company Proton, the most downloaded free VPN app, suggests that British Internet users at least put privacy first in their search for access. It is among the best free VPNs that offer Swiss privacy and top safety features at no cost.
UK Internet users who want to browse the Internet privately also have the option of paid VPN providers, some of whom offer free trials. Most have Money-back guarantees In at least 30 days, which allows their services to try out risk -free and request a refund if not satisfied.
Right now, the best -paid VPN is Nordvpn. It has some of the fastest speeds around, rock solid security and a lot of added features that make your everyday life easier. Plus, Techradar readers can only require up to $ 50 in Amazon gift cards and 4 months free when they sign up.
