Labour Government Advised to Adopt VPN Age Restrictions Over Blanket Ban
The Labour Party government has been strongly encouraged to implement age restrictions or limitations on children's use of virtual private networks (VPNs), with advocates describing this approach as a "far better" alternative to a "blanket ban." This recommendation follows the government's recent announcement targeting VPN regulation, which has garnered support from children's rights organizations.
Children's Rights Groups Welcome Proposed Measures
Chris Sherwood, CEO of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), expressed approval, stating that much of the government's proposal aligns with their longstanding advocacy. "Delivered swiftly, these measures would offer far better protection than a blanket ban," Sherwood emphasized, highlighting the need for urgent action to hold technology companies accountable and safeguard young people.
Andy Burrows, chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, a suicide prevention charity, noted that the announcement should provide reassurance to parents but urged the government to take further steps. He called on Sir Keir Starmer to commit to a new Online Safety Act that strengthens regulation and prioritizes product safety and children's wellbeing as essential business costs in the UK.
Privacy Advocates Criticize "Draconian" Proposal
In contrast, privacy advocates have condemned the proposal to age-restrict VPNs, labeling it "draconian" and arguing that it effectively constitutes a ban. Silkie Carlo, director at Big Brother Watch, described the measure as "absolutely clueless, dangerous, and undemocratic," asserting that it undermines internet freedom and freedom of expression.
Carlo, who has trained numerous journalists and human rights defenders in using VPNs for safety, warned that implementing age checks or ID requirements for VPNs would act as a de facto ban, restricting access for legitimate users. She emphasized the importance of VPNs for protecting physical and professional security in various contexts.
Government Response and Future Steps
Sir Keir Starmer responded to the debate by indicating that the government will seek new parliamentary powers to act on findings from social media consultations, where evidence suggests intervention is necessary. This move underscores the government's intent to balance online safety with regulatory measures, though it continues to spark controversy among stakeholders.
The discussion highlights the ongoing tension between protecting children online and preserving digital freedoms, with Labour's proposed VPN rules at the center of a broader conversation about internet governance and safety in the UK.
