The UK is experiencing an unprecedented spike in VPN usage, triggered directly by the newly enforced Online Safety Act, which came into effect on 25 July 2025. The law mandates robust age-verification mechanisms – such as ID scans, facial recognition, or credit card checks – for accessing adult and harmful content on platforms like Reddit, X, Instagram, gaming services, and pornography websites.

A Surge of Historic Proportions

• VPN demand peaked at a staggering 6,430% increase, according to researchers at vpnMentor. This surge lasted nearly two hours and continued with daily spikes ranging from 900% to 4,000% in subsequent days.
  
• Searches for VPN services skyrocketed, pushing several VPN apps to the top of the Apple App Store rankings.

What’s Driving the Rush?

The new verification requirements have caused widespread discomfort among UK users about privacy. Many are reluctant to hand over sensitive ID documents or facial data. As a result, VPNs have emerged as a convenient workaround – allowing users to appear as though they are browsing from countries without such stringent checks.

Despite the spike, VPN use remains legal in the UK. However, platforms promoting VPNs as tools to bypass the law face enforcement risks. UK officials have made clear there are no plans to ban VPNs, though the government is monitoring usage closely.

Consequences for Adult Websites

Top adult websites have seen sharp traffic declines – Pornhub has lost 47% of its UK visits, while XVideos and xHamster saw comparable drops. This confirms both the impact of age checks and the extent to which VPNs may be skewing data.

The Broader Debate

Proponents argue the Act protects minors from easily stumbling upon harmful content. Critics, however, fear it infringes on privacy and expression. Some warn age-gating tools are overly broad or vague, leading to censorship of legitimate platforms—including technical forums and casual discussion spaces.

Why Planet VPN?

In this climate where privacy and reliability are paramount,  Planet VPN stands out for several reasons:

• Strong privacy protections: A clear no-logs policy and independent audits ensure your online activity remains confidential.
  
• High-speed connections across multiple regions guarantee smooth browsing and streaming – even under heavy encryption.
  
• Global server network: Ideal for securely navigating geo-blocks or accessing content with privacy.
  
• User-friendly apps: Easy setup and intuitive design make Planet VPN accessible for both novices and seasoned users.
  
• Affordable pricing with frequent promotional plans, offering excellent value for privacy-aware users.

These qualities position Planet VPN as an excellent solution for UK users seeking to safeguard their online identity, avoid intrusive age verification, and retain open access – legally and securely.

In sum, the enforcement of the UK’s Online Safety Act has catalyzed an explosive demand for VPNs, driven by privacy concerns and restrictive verification. While the law itself is here to stay, tools like Planet VPN offer a strong, responsible way for adults to maintain digital privacy and freedom.