Proton, an internet privacy company, has highlighted a significant surge in demand for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in various countries, citing reasons such as increased internet censorship and restrictions on access to information.
In Pakistan alone, the demand for VPN services has skyrocketed by 6,000%. VPNs are software tools utilized to bypass blocked websites, addressing the challenges posed by internet censorship.
The situation in Pakistan has been particularly noteworthy, with social networking platforms like Twitter facing intermittent shutdowns. However, recent legal actions, such as the Sindh High Court’s order to restore internet services, indicate ongoing debates surrounding internet freedom and accessibility in the country.
Proton, headquartered in Switzerland, emphasized the global importance of VPN services, especially with half of the world scheduled to hold elections in the current year. Providing widespread access to VPNs is seen as crucial in combating internet censorship and ensuring free access to information, particularly during critical democratic processes.
Over the past year, Proton has observed a staggering increase in demand for VPN services across multiple nations, including Nepal (4,700%), Gabon (25,000%), and Senegal (1,000%). This surge, coupled with a notable 100,000% increase in overall demand, serves as an indicator of government crackdowns on internet freedom.
In response to these trends, Proton has announced plans to offer free VPN servers in countries experiencing heightened internet censorship, such as Venezuela, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, and Turkey. Andy Yen, the CEO of Proton, anticipates 2024 to be a pivotal year for democracy globally, emphasizing the need to address challenges to free speech and fair electoral processes in nations holding elections.