The Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an internet tool while helps you to create a private network while you are connected to a less secured public or your home internet connection. Its primary job is to encrypt network traffic and mask your IP address and location. VPNs are also used so that third parties cannot identify what data you download and upload on your device.
Recently, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs has urged the government to block VPNs in India citing cyber threats. The committee has issued a proposal that reads that VPNs allow criminals to remain anonymous online.
During the lockdown, VPNs became more useful in facilitating seamless work-from-home situations.
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Here’s all about the VPN ban proposal:
According to the reports by MediaNama, “The Committee notes with anxiety the technological challenge posed by VPN services and Dark Web, that can bypass cyber security walls and allow criminals to remain anonymous online. As of date, VPN can easily be downloaded, as many websites are providing such facilities and advertising them. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs should coordinate with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to identify and permanently block such VPNs with the help of internet service providers.”
Committee said that VPN is easy to download, as many websites are providing the facility and advertising them.
The Committee further stated that criminals may remain anonymous online and VPN services, as well as Dark Web, can bypass cyber security walls.
To identify and permanently block the VPNs the Ministry of Home Affairs should coordinate with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and internet service providers.
It further stated that the ministry must take actions to strengthen the tracking and surveillance mechanisms to put a check on the use of VPN and the dark web.
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How VPN is useful?
- With the help of VPN services, hackers cannot intercept official data and files.
- VPN is needed to stay safe online.
- VPN helps in protecting you when you connect to public Wi-Fi.
- VPN helps you get past region restrictions.