VPNs Banned for Two Months in Anantnag Over Cybersecurity Concerns

The District Magistrate of Anantnag, Fakhrudin Hamid, has ordered an immediate ban on the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in the district. The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), came into effect on May 7 and will remain in force for two months.

According to the order, VPNs are being misused to hide users' identities, access blocked websites, and spread content that could incite unrest or disturb public order. Authorities said VPNs could also be used to leak sensitive information and carry out cyberattacks.

All VPN services on mobile phones are to be suspended during this period. The Senior Superintendent of Police, Anantnag, has been instructed to strictly enforce the order.

Local residents have been asked not to use VPNs during the suspension period. Violators may face legal action, officials warned.

The district administration said this step is necessary to protect public safety and maintain cybersecurity.