In an escalating battle over online privacy and content regulation, lawmakers across several U.S. states are pushing proposals that could effectively ban Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), tools widely used for securing internet connections and bypassing restrictions. These efforts stem from attempts to enforce age verification laws on adult content websites, where VPNs have become a popular workaround for users seeking anonymity. As reported by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), politicians are reacting to the discovery that VPNs allow people to evade invasive ID checks, leading to calls for outright bans.

The proposals highlight a fundamental misunderstanding of VPN technology, which not only protects privacy but also safeguards against cyber threats. In Michigan, Republican lawmakers have introduced the ‘Anticorruption of Public Morals Act,’ aiming to prohibit VPN sales, usage, and even website access to them, according to Tom’s Guide (Tom’s Guide). This bill ties into broader efforts to block adult content, but critics argue it overreaches into personal freedoms.

Rising Tide of State-Level Restrictions

Similar initiatives are emerging in other states. In Wisconsin, a proposed bill seeks to ban VPNs alongside mandating age checks on adult sites, sparking concerns over privacy erosion, as detailed by Technadu (Technadu). Reclaim The Net (Reclaim The Net) describes the legislation as treating privacy ‘like a loophole, not a right,’ potentially turning the internet into a ‘government ID checkpoint.’

These state actions follow a pattern seen in federal discussions, such as the 2023 RESTRICT Act, which raised alarms about criminalizing VPN use for accessing certain foreign apps, per Politifact (Politifact). While that bill didn’t pass, it set a precedent for viewing VPNs as threats to national security or content controls.

Backlash from Privacy Advocates

The Electronic Frontier Foundation has lambasted these proposals, stating in their recent post that ‘it’s unfortunately no longer enough to force websites to check your government-issued ID… Their solution? Entirely ban the use of VPNs.’ EFF warns that such bans ignore VPNs’ role in protecting users from surveillance and censorship (EFF).

Fight for the Future reported major backlash in Michigan, with over 15,000 users petitioning against the VPN ban bill, emphasizing its importance for internet safety and anti-censorship (Fight for the Future). On X (formerly Twitter), users have echoed these sentiments, with posts highlighting VPNs’ value in preventing data harvesting and accessing restricted content, though some express fears of federal escalation.

Technological and Economic Implications

VPN bans could disrupt industries reliant on secure remote access, from cybersecurity firms to remote workers. HotHardware notes that the goal appears to be enforcing censorship, calling it ‘an objectionable goal… here in America’ (HotHardware). CNET warns that such laws might drive users to ‘dangerous apps,’ jeopardizing millions’ privacy (CNET).

In Arizona, age verification laws have already spiked VPN demand, as per Tom’s Guide, indicating users’ proactive response to restrictions (Tom’s Guide). This surge underscores VPNs’ dual role in privacy and circumvention, potentially leading to underground markets if bans proceed.

Global Context and Precedents

Internationally, similar crackdowns have occurred in authoritarian regimes, but U.S. proposals risk aligning with such tactics. Hacker News discussions criticize these laws for enabling ‘authoritarian surveillance,’ arguing they undermine parental control over children’s online activities (Hacker News).

Hindustan Times covers Michigan’s bill as part of a push to ban pornography and VPNs, framing it as a ‘public morals’ issue (Hindustan Times). TechStory describes it as a ‘sweeping internet regulation proposal’ alarming digital rights groups (TechStory).

Potential Legal Challenges Ahead

Privacy experts predict constitutional challenges, citing First Amendment rights to anonymous speech. EFF’s post quotes the bills’ shortsightedness, noting lawmakers ‘have no idea what they’re doing’ by targeting essential privacy tools (EFF).

In the UK, Express.co.uk reports VPN bans are ‘on the table’ for expanding online safety acts, mirroring U.S. trends and raising transatlantic concerns (Express.co.uk). X posts from users like Michael Shellenberger warn of severe penalties, drawing parallels to past bills threatening 20-year prison terms for VPN use.

Industry Responses and Future Outlook

Tech companies and VPN providers are mobilizing against these measures. Posts on X emphasize VPNs’ protection against tracking, with one user stating, ‘This bill plans to ban VPNs, which can be used to protect your private information online’ (posts found on X).

As of November 15, 2025, these proposals remain in committee stages, but their momentum signals a broader shift toward regulated internet access. CNET’s recent coverage highlights risks to children, ironically noting that bans could expose users to unsafe alternatives (CNET).

Economic Stakes in Privacy Tech

The VPN market, valued in billions, faces existential threats. Analysts predict innovation stifling if bans pass, pushing development overseas.

Advocates urge public action, with EFF calling for opposition to these ‘authoritarian’ measures. The debate pits child protection against fundamental rights, with VPNs caught in the crossfire.