The GOI unveiled new VPN policy guidelines on April 28 that will come into effect from June, i.e., the next month. The New VPN Rules in India direct virtual private network (VPN) service providers to record and store the details of their users to retain user data. A VPN allows users to set up a protected network connection while using public networks. As per the new directives issued by Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert-In), Virtual Private Network (VPN) providers are required to store user data for five years.
Recalling the new guidelines, VPN providers are required to collect phone numbers, validated customer names, addresses, email ids, starting and ending dates, services they opted for, IP and email addresses used for registration, and timestamp of registration. They are advised to store all IP addresses issued to a customer, along with what they usually use.
Although New VPN Rules in India are not welcomed by VPN service providers, and apparently there are reasons for them.
Let’s see what impact it will do on VPN Companies.
How do these rules affect VPN providers?
VPN allows people to jump off servers to connect with the network, and since it keeps no track, the network information remains obscure. VPN operators do not log users’ data, i.e. history or IP address information. This anonymity acted as their USP, which is about to get hampered by this rule. However, THEY DO LOG INFORMATION TO IMPROVE THEIR SERVICES. Since these services may violate CERT’S rules related to cybersecurity and cybercrime, and hence they are asked to retain data for at least 5 years.
Will it make VPNs useless?
Absolutely not; VPSs are not banned and can be used all across the country to access content blocked in a particular area. It may affect those who use VPNs to hide information, criminals or those associated with cybercrime, etc. These rules are not only imposed in India, but countries like Russia, China, Belarus, and the UK are already following rules associated with VPNs.
Impact on Users
Law agencies believe that New VPN Rules in India will simplify the tracking of criminals who prefer VPNs to use the internet stealthily. However, there can be a few Repercussions of the New VPN Rules on users since it will take away their search anonymity. Experts believe that government-related agencies will get better control of everyone’s data, which will make them vulnerable. Such rules may drive tech experts to look for more loopholes in cyber security, thus making it technically vulnerable. There is also this uncertainty – what if a user tries to access content that is blocked in India using VPNs, say Tiktok or PubG? Will it be allowed or punished?
Is it a good move by the Government?
Amidst numerous uncertainties, nothing can be said about the consequences of these New VPN Rules in India. VPN companies and users are yet to decide how it will hinder their service policies and user privacy. The situation is kind of gross, wherein VPN companies are either planning to change their service location. A few days are left; let’s see what will come up. What’s your take on it as a user? Is it a good move by the Government, or does it require a few amendments? Write us back what you think.
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