Internet users in Australia are flocking to download virtual private network applications (VPN) after the country implemented new online age control regulations. Measures to protect children in the online environment have caused many pornographic websites to restrict or block access from Australia.
According to the application ranking released by Apple, among the 15 free apps downloaded the most at the beginning of this week, there are up to three VPN apps. Notably, the VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy app even surpassed many social media platforms to become one of the most downloaded apps.
VPNs work by hiding the device's Internet address and replacing it with another address, helping users access the Internet as if they were in another country. This makes many people turn to VPNs to overcome newly applied restrictions.
The new regulations are part of Australia's efforts to protect teenagers on the Internet. In December last year, this country became the first country to issue a nationwide ban on teenagers using social networks.
In addition, a separate law requires chatbot services using artificial intelligence to prevent people under 18 years old from accessing sensitive content, including pornography, extreme violence, self-harm or eating disorders.
Platforms that do not comply may be fined up to 49.5 million Australian dollars (about 34.5 million USD).
Australia is also joining many countries such as the UK and France, as well as dozens of US states, requiring pornographic websites to verify that users are 18 years old. App stores must also check age before allowing the download of 18+-labeled applications.
Australian Cyber Security Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said that the new regulations aim to bring children a level of online protection similar to real life.
Children cannot go to bars, adult clubs or casinos in real life. We want similar protection principles to be applied in the digital world," said Julie Inman Grant.
According to Digital Rights Watch (Digital Rights Watch in Australia), it is understandable that people are switching to using VPNs. The organization's Vice President - Mr. Tom Sulston - said that VPNs not only help access restricted websites but also provide an additional layer of privacy protection for Internet users.
The sudden increase in VPN applications shows changes in how Internet users respond to increasingly stringent online content control policies globally.
