The browsing habits of numerous households in the UK have recently undergone a significant shift. New regulations have been put in place to prevent individuals under the age of 18 from accessing adult-oriented websites, requiring verification of age before granting access.
This update was instigated by the UK regulatory body Ofcom in response to the escalating trend of minors visiting explicit sites. Ofcom emphasized the importance of this change in safeguarding children from harmful online content.
Under the new guidelines, users attempting to access specific web pages now must provide credit card or personal information for authentication before gaining entry. While the primary goal is to shield minors from inappropriate material, concerns have been raised regarding potential cybersecurity risks associated with the verification process.
Jake Moore, a Global Cybersecurity Advisor at ESET, highlighted the possible privacy and security threats posed by the collection of sensitive data like ID uploads and financial details. Consequently, many individuals have opted to install Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to circumvent the restrictions. VPNs conceal users’ IP addresses, making it appear as though they are browsing from a different location.
Despite the appeal of free VPNs as a quick solution, there are inherent risks involved. Free VPN services often lack robust security measures, leaving users vulnerable to cyber threats such as malware and hacking. Additionally, some free VPN providers may compromise users’ privacy by logging and selling their data to third parties for advertising purposes.
Before choosing a VPN provider, thorough research is advised to ensure the safety and reliability of the service. While free VPNs may seem attractive, the potential risks involved typically necessitate investing in a secure and trustworthy VPN service.
Mozilla’s team cautioned against the allure of free VPNs, emphasizing the hidden costs and risks associated with these services. Opting for a paid VPN subscription is often the safer choice to guarantee a secure online experience.