DMs impose blanket ban on use of VPNs in Rajouri, Poonch

Rajouri, Nov 30: The District Magistrates (DMs) of Rajouri and Poonch districts have imposed blanket ban on use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) over security concerns in the areas.

DMs of both the districts have issued detailed notification in this regard after formal communications by Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) who have informed about recent use of VPNs in the districts.

It has been stated that the decision to ban the VPNs has been taken in view of public safety and to prevent potential misuse of such services for unlawful activities.

The orders highlight concerns that VPNs, by masking IP addresses, bypassing website blocks and firewalls, and transmitting encrypted data are being used by a significant number of suspicious internet users.

Such activities have the potential to be exploited for anti-national purposes including spreading inflammatory content, coordinating activities prejudicial to public order, and posing cyber-security threats.

The decision, officials said, has been taken in the interest of maintaining law and order. The District Magistrates deemed it imperative to take preventive steps to safeguard sensitive information and ensure public safety.

The Senior Superintendents of Police have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the orders in letter and spirit.