VPNs, or virtual private networks, are a hot topic at the moment, with searches for the cybersecurity tools surging by an astonishing 1400 per cent in the UK on July 25, 2025, according to Proton VPN.
The reason behind the spike? That’s when the Online Safety Act came into play, which allows Ofcom (the country’s official communications regulator) to enforce extra safety checks on users, in particular, mandatory age checks on anyone looking for adult content. The process involves uploading government-issued ID, such as passports and driving licences, uploading biometric data or financial information to prove your age and access content.
Naturally, this has led to concerns about handing over sensitive personal data to certain websites, some of which may be quite far down on the scrupulous scale. The new rules aren’t just restricted to adult content sites; dating apps, social media platforms, gaming sites and even forums like Reddit are included too.
The Act aims to transform the UK’s digital landscape and make the country “the safest place in the world to be online.” The primary aim is to protect children from searching for and looking at harmful content – a worry that’s heightened for parents right now with the summer holidays in full flow.
While it is an aim everyone can get behind, it does leave adult users, especially the child-free ones, blinking in the new digital dawn, feeling vulnerable. This could explain why searches for VPNs have shot through the virtual roof.
To learn more about the services, what they do and how to install one, The Standard spoke to cybersecurity expert Marijus Briedis, CTO at NordVPN.
“VPN stands for virtual private network, and it provides the ability to establish a secure network connection even when you’re using unsafe public Wi-Fi. A VPN will encrypt your online traffic and keep your virtual location hidden.”
Why should you consider getting a VPN?
“Primarily to protect their privacy and security online, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often vulnerable to hackers and other malicious actors.
A VPN encrypts the data you send and receive, creating a secure tunnel that shields your information from being intercepted by cybercriminals, internet service providers, or anyone else on the same network, such as in cafes or airports.
This encryption makes it much harder for third parties to spy on your online activities or steal sensitive information, like passwords and credit card details.
Additionally, a VPN masks your real IP address, adding a layer of anonymity that helps reduce tracking and profiling by websites, advertisers, or network administrators.
Using a VPN also helps bypass internet censorship and can prevent internet throttling imposed by ISPs [internet service providers], ensuring a more open and faster browsing experience.
Overall, a VPN enhances your online safety by securing your connection, especially on unsecured networks, protecting your digital identity, and providing more control over your internet freedom and privacy.”
Which VPN is the most trusted?
“The most trusted VPNs are those that provide strong encryption standards, such as AES 256-bit encryption, to ensure data security, combined with a strict no-logs policy that guarantees the provider does not store user activity data.
Additional security measures such as malware protection, kill switches, and leak protection are important, as is compatibility across various devices and ease of use on different platforms.
Based on expert reviews and extensive testing in 2025, NordVPN is consistently regarded as the most trusted VPN service due to its robust security features, independently audited no-logs policy, extensive server network, and reliable performance.
Other highly trustworthy VPNs include those offering high privacy standards and strong security practices as well.”
Are VPNs easy to set up? What are the steps?
“VPNs are generally easy to set up, especially when using popular commercial VPN providers that offer dedicated apps designed for simplicity and quick installation.
The most straightforward method is to choose a reputable VPN service, sign up for an account, then download and install the provider’s app on your device, whether it’s a computer, smartphone, or tablet.
After logging in with your credentials, you typically just need to select a server or rely on the app’s automatic recommendation, and connect with one click or tap.
This process encrypts your internet traffic and routes it securely through the VPN server, usually within a few minutes, making it suitable even for beginners.”
If you’re looking for a hardworking and trustworthy VPN to enhance your online security, we’ve rounded up the best players below.
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