In today's digital age, the internet serves as a refuge and a means of expression for many marginalised communities. These individuals rely on VPNs to freely express themselves online without fearing persecution from governing bodies that seek to limit basic human rights. The recent enactment of the Online Safety Act on July 25th in the UK threatens this freedom by infringing on user privacy and forcing individuals to submit government identification to third-party entities, many of which have questionable track records in handling sensitive personal information.

The ability to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) stands as an invaluable tool in circumventing internet restrictions and preserving user privacy. It offers a layer of protection that many, including minorities, journalists, and advocates, depend upon to communicate and access information safely. The implementation of the Online Safety Act has triggered concerns about mass surveillance and the intrusive nature of government oversight, which not only invades personal privacy but also sets a dangerous precedent for the future of digital spaces in the UK.

Statistics have continually shown a troubling erosion of privacy rights in various parts of the world, where government overreach has resulted in the suppression of free speech. The UK should not follow this trajectory. According to privacy rights groups, over 70% of UK internet users believe that restrictions on VPNs represent a direct violation of their digital freedom.

We call on policymakers to reconsider the restrictions imposed by the Online Safety Act and to protect the rights of users to access the internet without government interference or censorship. By safeguarding the use of VPNs, the UK can ensure it remains a champion of personal freedom and privacy rights in the digital age.

Please join us in urging the UK government to protect our internet freedoms by allowing citizens to freely use VPNs. Your signature can make a difference in preserving these essential rights for all internet users in the UK.