In 2025, VPN usage in India has skyrocketed, with the country now leading the world in adoption. According to the latest SurfShark and Top10VPN survey, India boasts a staggering 403.3 million VPN users, marking a 43% adoption rate. With privacy concerns and digital censorship often in the spotlight, VPNs have become a hot favorite among Indian internet users. But why is VPN adoption growing at such a rapid pace in India? Let’s explore the driving factors behind this surge.
What Is VPN and Why Is It Growing in India?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a tool that allows users to browse the internet without exposing their IP address or leaving traces of their browsing history. It encrypts data and can bypass firewalls and website blocks, providing users with more privacy and access to content that may be restricted in their region.
In India, VPN usage is primarily driven by the need for privacy, access to geo-restricted content, and the ability to bypass local restrictions. Additionally, the rise of remote work and global access to content are significant factors behind the surge in VPN adoption.
India Leads in VPN Usage
India’s massive VPN adoption makes it the largest market globally, followed by China (319.3 million users) and Indonesia (134.6 million users). The United States comes in fourth, with 79.1 million users. The global VPN adoption rate stands at 25%, while India’s adoption rate has already surpassed 43%, as reported by Astrill.
Common Reasons for VPN Use in India
Several factors contribute to the growing popularity of VPNs in India:
1. Accessing Blocked Websites and Services
Many people in India use VPNs to access apps, websites, and services that are banned or restricted in the country. With VPNs, users can bypass these restrictions and freely access platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and more.
2. Privacy Concerns
Privacy is a major driver of VPN use in India. Many users rely on VPNs to prevent websites from tracking their activities and exposing their personal information to third parties. With rising concerns about data privacy, especially following incidents involving major data breaches, Indians are increasingly turning to VPNs for a safer online experience.
3. Remote Work
As more people in India work remotely, VPNs provide a secure connection to global platforms and private networks. VPNs enable employees to access company systems and confidential data from anywhere in the world, making it an essential tool for many professionals.
4. Accessing Geo-Restricted Content and Gaming
VPNs also allow users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from other regions. For example, with a US VPN, an Indian user can access the entire US Netflix library. Gaming enthusiasts also use VPNs to access restricted gaming titles or even download torrents.
Is VPN Legal in India?
Yes, VPNs are legal in India. However, their legality depends on the way they are used. For instance:
- Legal Uses: Using a VPN for browsing the internet, working remotely, or accessing global content from platforms like Netflix is legal.
- Illegal Uses: Cybercrimes, accessing the dark web, or spreading misinformation using a VPN are illegal activities.
As long as you’re not misusing the service, VPNs are as legal in India as any other internet tool.
VPN Regulations and Policies in India
In April 2022, India’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issued a directive that required VPN providers to collect and store user data such as names, email addresses, contact numbers, and the purpose for using VPN services. This caused a stir in the VPN industry, with major players like NordVPN, SurfShark, and ExpressVPN moving their servers outside India due to privacy concerns.
Key Points About India’s VPN Regulations:
- VPN providers are now required to retain user data, which undermines the anonymity that VPNs traditionally offer.
- Major VPN providers responded by shifting their servers outside of India.
- Despite these regulations, VPN use remains largely unregulated for personal and non-criminal activities.
The Untapped VPN Audience in India
While the surge in VPN adoption is largely seen in tier 1 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, tier 2 and tier 3 cities are starting to catch up. As internet penetration grows in smaller towns, the demand for VPNs is expected to rise. Additionally, the availability of local language support in VPN apps could drive further adoption.
Key Factors to Drive VPN Growth:
- Localization: Offering VPN services in regional languages will appeal to a broader audience.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Affordable plans and promotions can attract new users.
- Awareness: As more people become aware of online privacy issues, VPN adoption is likely to surge.
Free VPN: The Risks You Should Know
Many newcomers to VPNs opt for free VPN services, but these come with significant risks. While a few legitimate free VPNs exist, many are malicious or insecure. Some of the dangers include:
- Tracking of your activity by free VPN providers.
- Data selling to third parties.
- Malware risks if using untrustworthy VPN services.
It’s highly recommended to choose a trusted VPN provider to ensure your privacy and data security.
The rise in VPN usage in India is a reflection of growing concerns about online privacy, digital censorship, and the increasing demand for global content. With millions of users already adopting VPNs, India is set to continue leading in VPN adoption. Whether it’s for accessing restricted content, working remotely, or ensuring privacy, VPNs offer a solution that’s both effective and necessary in today’s digital age.
As VPN regulations evolve in India, users should stay informed and choose trusted providers to safeguard their privacy while enjoying the benefits of secure and unrestricted internet access.
READ: Russia Criminalizes VPN Use and Extremist Searches Online
