Amidst the efforts of authoritarian governments to restrict and control online access, individuals are turning to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as a means of circumventing these limitations. VPNs provide a safe haven for internet users seeking to bypass these manipulative measures and access online content without fear of censorship or surveillance.
Tools designed to counter censorship become a crucial lifeline for those who are affected by social media bans, providing a means for individuals to connect and communicate during periods of turmoil that often follow such crackdowns. These tools help to safeguard freedom of expression and enable people to share information and ideas without fear of repercussions from oppressive regimes.
The demand for (VPNs) in Pakistan surged following the government’s decision to block access to popular social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook on May 9. The move came in the wake of the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, which sparked violent protests and widespread unrest, leading to traffic jams and blockades in various parts of the country.
Demand for VPNs in Pakistan skyrocketed on May 9, with a 311% increase from the average daily usage in the preceding 28 days. By late afternoon on May 10, demand had reached an astounding 846% above average.
VPN usage surged in Pakistan as mobile broadband services were cut off along with the social media blackout. This increased reliance on VPNs as an alternative to stay connected during the ongoing protests, and demand is expected to rise further with persistent social media restrictions.
