VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, which is a technology that enables you to create a secure connection over the internet from your device to a server managed by a VPN provider. The connection encrypts your internet traffic and helps protect your online privacy and security by hiding your IP address and making your online activities less traceable.VPNs are commonly used to access blocked websites, protect personal data, and enhance online security. However in India VPN usage is also subjective to certain legal restrictions.
Points to keep in mind while choosing VPN service:
● The VPN should have strong encryption and security-proof
● Networks must offer fast and stable connection speeds
● VPN service providers should follow the laws and regulations for privacy in your respective country.
Pros of using a Virtual Private Network
1. Privacy: A VPN encrypts your online data, hiding your online activities from prying eyes and ensuring your online privacy.
2. Security: VPNs protect you from online threats such as hacking, malware, and phishing attacks.
3. Accessibility: VPNs allow you to access geo-restricted websites, content, and services from anywhere in the world.
4. Anonymity: VPNs mask your IP address, making it difficult for websites and services to track your location and online activities.
5. Improved network speed: VPNs can improve your network speed by routing your internet connection through faster servers.
6. Remote access: VPNs allow you to access your workplace network securely from remote locations, improving work flexibility.
Cons of using Virtual Private Network
1. Slower speed: The encryption process used by VPNs can slow down your internet connection speed.
2. Compatibility issues: Some VPNs may not work well with certain websites, apps, or operating systems.
3. Cost: Some VPNs may require a subscription fee, which can add to your monthly expenses.
4. Limited server options: Some VPNs may have limited server options, which can restrict your access to geo-restricted content.
5. Limited security: While VPNs provide a higher level of security than unencrypted connections, they may not provide complete protection against all types of cyber threats.
6. Logging and privacy policies: Some VPNs may log your online activities, defeating the purpose of using a VPN for privacy. It is important to research and understand a VPN’s logging and privacy policies before using it.
Indian Government’s take on VPN
The new VPN data logging law in India restricts VPN companies from logging-in directly. The new laws states that all VPN companies log and store following data for at least five years:
● User name,email address and phone number
● The subscribers purpose of using the VPN service
● IP address allotted by the VPN service company along with the IP address the customer used to sign up for the service.
Many companies have claimed that they will not follow the directive and wants to adopt “wait and see” as these laws clash with their main deliverables.At present, VPN is legal. However, there have been various restrictions on the same.
The Indian government has mandated these laws and if any VPN service company abides to follow, the government reserves the right to take punitive measures against them. According to CRET-In, various stakeholders were consulted before these rules were brought into implementation.
Impact of VPN laws and regulations on Indian Companies
● Due to user data storage of five years extra cost will be incurred on cloud providers for huge datasets.
● The privacy of users as well as companies will be affected as there are alot of information that has to be shared.
● There is no confirmation by the government on how the personal data will be used in future,henceforth, many users will be dissatisfied in terms of privacy.
● India ranks in Top 10 as per users of VPN to protect their WiFi and other networking, this rule may reduce the security and trust of the users at the same time.
Conclusion
The proposed regulations will have a significant effect on the companies and users in India, but are implemented to protect the data of customers as well as crucial data of companies. However, the VPN companies do not agree as their main objective of existence is getting disturbed that is to provide security and privacy. It is important for users to research and understand the logging and privacy policies of VPN providers before using them to ensure that their online privacy is protected.
