Why Is VPN Use Growing Worldwide?
VPNs are now used by nearly one in three internet users worldwide, but adoption rates vary widely by country. The reasons behind this trend are tied to censorship, privacy concerns, streaming access, and government surveillance.
Top Countries by VPN Usage
Indonesia (55%) – Driven by heavy internet restrictions and frequent social media blocks. Users rely on VPNs to stay connected and access streaming platforms.
India (43%) – Rising concern over surveillance and data laws, plus high demand for geo-unblocked streaming.
United Arab Emirates (36–43%) – Restrictions on VoIP and social media push residents and expats toward VPNs.
Thailand & Malaysia (38%) – Censorship, privacy worries, and access to international content fuel adoption.
Saudi Arabia (28–37%) – Strict online controls and monitoring make VPNs essential for free communication.
Turkey (32–36%) – VPNs help bypass news and social media bans, especially during political unrest.
Vietnam (27–29%) – Widespread content censorship encourages VPN use for uncensored information.
Russia (36–42%) – Increasing internet control and site bans have led to a sharp rise in VPN adoption.
United States (26%) – While censorship is low, Americans use VPNs mainly for privacy, streaming, and security.
Why People Use VPNs
To bypass censorship and access blocked sites and apps.
To protect privacy from governments, ISPs, and advertisers.
To stream freely across regions without geo-blocks.
To stay secure on public Wi-Fi and prevent tracking.
Key Global Trends
Around 30% of internet users worldwide rely on VPNs.
Usage spikes during political unrest or internet blackouts.
Mobile devices are the biggest driver of VPN adoption.
Bottom Line
Countries with more censorship and surveillance see the highest VPN usage, but even in open societies, people increasingly use VPNs for streaming and privacy. VPNs are no longer niche—they’re becoming a global standard for digital freedom and security.