Since the introduction of the UK Online Safety Act, a large number of myths have spread online about what the law does, how it affects everyday internet use, and whether privacy tools like VPNs are being restricted or banned. Much of this confusion comes from oversimplified headlines, social media speculation,
One of the most common questions surrounding the UK Online Safety Act is whether VPNs can bypass ISP-level filtering or network restrictions introduced as part of compliance with the law. The short answer is sometimes, but only in specific circumstances. VPNs do not override platform rules or legal obligations, but
Age verification is one of the most discussed and misunderstood parts of the UK Online Safety Act. Many users are unsure how age checks will work in practice, what data is collected, and whether tools like VPNs have any impact on these systems. Some online claims suggest that a VPN
As the UK Online Safety Act comes into force in 2026, one of the most common questions people ask is whether using a VPN is still legal. The short answer is yes: VPNs remain legal to use in the UK, and the Online Safety Act does not ban or restrict
The UK Online Safety Act has triggered widespread confusion about what is changing online, who is affected, and whether tools like VPNs play any role in privacy or access under the new rules. Some coverage suggests the Act enables mass surveillance. Other articles imply that VPNs can simply bypass it
Our 2026 VPN tests include the latest streaming unblocking results, real-world speed benchmarking across 180+ test hours, privacy audits, and coverage of emerging VPN use cases like secure mobile data bundles and geo-block circumvention. We update this guide quarterly to keep pace with changes in global VPN censorship and provider
Our 2026 VPN tests include the latest streaming unblocking results, real-world speed benchmarking across 180+ test hours, privacy audits, and coverage of emerging VPN use cases like secure mobile data bundles and geo-block circumvention. We update this guide quarterly to keep pace with changes in global VPN censorship and provider
In 2026, IPVanish remains a formidable contender in the VPN market, particularly for users who prioritize speed and need to protect a vast number of household devices. While it faces stiff competition from "all-in-one" suites like NordVPN, IPVanish has carved out a niche by owning and operating much
In 2026, Mullvad VPN continues to be the industry's gold standard for radical privacy and anonymity. While it lacks the flashy unblocking features and multi-year discounts of mainstream competitors, it remains the primary choice for "privacy purists" due to its account-less sign-up process and transparent pricing.
In 2026, CyberGhost VPN remains a top contender for users seeking a specialized, beginner-friendly experience without a premium price tag. Known for its expansive network and streaming-optimized servers, it has continued to modernize its infrastructure by upgrading to 10 Gbps hardware across its fleet. This review follows our standardized testing
In 2026, Private Internet Access (PIA) has maintained its reputation as the go-to provider for technical users and families who need massive scale without a massive price tag. While it has traditionally focused on its massive US server presence, recent expansions have bolstered its global footprint, making it more competitive
In 2026, Proton VPN has transitioned from a niche security tool into a top-tier powerhouse that rivals the biggest names in the industry. It remains the gold standard for transparency, being one of the few providers to offer fully open-source apps that are independently audited. This review follows PrivacyShot’s
In 2026, ExpressVPN remains a premium heavyweight in the industry, prioritized for users who value a "plug-and-play" experience with high-end reliability over budget-friendly pricing. While it now faces stiff competition in raw speed, its proprietary technologies and consistent unblocking capabilities keep it among the top-rated providers. This review
In 2026, NordVPN continues to hold its position as the premier all-in-one security suite, blending elite performance with an extensive array of cybersecurity tools. While it has traditionally been known for its massive server network, recent 2026 audits and the implementation of post-quantum encryption have solidified its status as a
In 2026, Surfshark has solidified its reputation as a high-performance service that bridges the gap between budget pricing and premium features. While it maintains a competitive price point, it now rivals top-tier competitors in speed, security, and specialized privacy tools. This review follows PrivacyShot’s standardized VPN testing methodology, focusing
Our 2026 VPN tests include the latest streaming unblocking results, real-world speed benchmarking across 180+ test hours, privacy audits, and coverage of emerging VPN use cases like secure mobile data bundles and geo-block circumvention. We update this guide quarterly to keep pace with changes in global VPN censorship and provider
