We all know Digital ID will be required for VPN access sooner rather than later as Ofcom ups its monitoring
Users of VPNs are being tracked by the Ofcommists and we all know they will conclude that VPN users will need a Digital ID so the government can track everything you do online
In a recent development under the UK’s Online Safety Act, the communications regulator Ofcom is intensifying its scrutiny of VPN usage. While the government has assured the public that there’s no plan to outright ban VPNs, new measures and ongoing data collection raise serious privacy concerns for users seeking anonymity online.
Ofcom’s Ongoing Monitoring of VPNs
Ofcom has announced it will continue gathering detailed information on VPN adoption across the UK. This includes:
Monitoring VPN app downloads and usage trends.
Sourcing data from platforms like Apptopia (an app intelligence service).
Engaging directly with youth panels, surveying families, and even coordinating with European counterparts to understand VPN habits.
The goal? To decide if ‘further action’ is needed, particularly in response to debates about young people using VPNs to bypass age verification on websites. Ofcom’s first report since the Online Safety Act highlights concerns over minors accessing restricted content, but critics argue this ignores broader opposition to the Act’s privacy implications.
Notably, Ofcom has spent nearly half a million pounds since 2022 on internet monitoring software and services. They previously refused to disclose data sources but revealed Apptopia in response to a Freedom of Information request.
Proposed ID Verification for VPN Downloads
A more alarming proposal comes from the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill: requiring users to verify their identity (proving they’re over 18) before downloading a VPN app. This directly contradicts the core purpose of VPNs providing privacy, security and anonymity.
If implemented, new users would need to submit ID to app stores or providers and we all know that means Digital ID. Workarounds like using a VPN to switch regions for downloads wouldn’t work, it’s a classic chicken-and-egg problem.
Tech companies have responded differently:
Apple is pushing back strongly, resisting implementation on its devices, like providing access to users backups via a back door.
Google and Samsung have not issued public opposition and appear compliant as they have been before, exposed by Apple’s fight with the UK governement.
This isn’t scaremongering, the bill might not pass, but if it does with labours huge majority, it could significantly erode online privacy in the UK.
Caveats on Data and Studies
Many studies cited by Ofcom rely on opt in participants, potentially skewing results toward those already interested in the topic. Some findings have been disputed by bodies like the Office for National Statistics, highlighting how survey methods can influence outcomes.
Why This Matters for Privacy
VPNs are essential tools for protecting personal data, bypassing geo-restrictions, and maintaining anonymity. Requiring ID verification ties real world identities to VPN use, opening the door to potential tracking. Combined with Ofcom’s data collection, this could make UK VPN users feel increasingly monitored.
If you’re concerned about privacy, consider reputable no log VPNs like Private Internet Access, NordVPN or ProtonVPN.