India has become the largest VPN market globally by user base in 2023, with over 403 million users—surpassing even China and Indonesia. This rapid growth is driven by unique social, political, and economic factors shaping India’s digital landscape.
India led the world in government-imposed internet shutdowns between January 2020 and May 2023.
VPNs enable users in such regions to bypass local restrictions and maintain access to communication platforms and information.
India has banned hundreds of Chinese apps, including TikTok, PUBG, and WeChat, citing national security concerns. VPNs allow users to access these banned or restricted apps through international servers.
Example: Gamers in India use VPNs to connect to banned versions of PUBG or access global servers for games like Call of Duty.
Many Indian users employ VPNs to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.
Example: A viewer in India may use a VPN set to the US or UK to watch exclusive regional content not available in the Indian catalog.
Rising concerns about government surveillance, censorship, and data collection have encouraged Indians to adopt VPNs for privacy and secure browsing.
Example: Users worried about their digital footprint rely on VPNs for anonymous communication and to avoid tracking.
During the 2020–2021 lockdowns, VPN searches and usage surged as remote workers sought secure connections to corporate networks and online tools.
Example: Employees working from home used corporate VPNs to access company portals and confidential files securely.
VPNs are also used to access global payment gateways and participate in cryptocurrency trading through international platforms unavailable in India.
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has raised concerns about VPN misuse for illegal cross-border transactions and terror financing.
Example: In the Grokhantak module case, suspects reportedly used VPNs to transfer funds between India and Bangladesh.
India’s massive rise in VPN adoption—exceeding 400 million users—is fueled by frequent internet shutdowns, app bans, privacy fears, and demand for unrestricted global content. The COVID-19 lockdowns and remote work culture further accelerated VPN use. From Manipur’s blackouts to PUBG bans, India’s restrictive digital climate has pushed millions toward VPNs for access, anonymity, and freedom online.
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