China introduced its internet censorship system at the turn of the century, and ever since then, many people have been asking themselves questions like – are VPNs illegal in China?
The answer is a bit complicated because the Chinese authorities have previously threatened to ban VPNs and remove them from app stores, but they are still widely used by businesses and individuals who want to circumvent the country’s strict censorship laws. So, in other words, it’s a bit of a grey area.
However, some individuals have also reportedly got themselves in trouble with the authorities for using a VPN to get around the so-called ‘Great Firewall of China’.
So, if you’re planning to use a VPN in China, it’s essential to choose a reliable and secure one. In this article, we’ll recommend a few of the best VPNs for China and give tips on how to use them safely.
Let’s dive in!
Why is China so Strict with Internet Censorship?
Since the early days of the internet, China has been known for its strict censorship laws. The country has a long history of censorship, dating back to the days of the imperial court. In more recent years, the Chinese government has taken steps to control the internet and its content more stringently.
There are many reasons why China is so strict with internet censorship. One reason is to control the spread of information. The Chinese government wants to control what its citizens see and hear, and the internet is a significant source of information.
By censoring the internet, the government can control the flow of information and prevent people from accessing information it deems harmful or sensitive.
Another reason for internet censorship in China is to protect the country’s image. The Chinese government does not want its citizens to portray the country or its people negatively. Censoring the internet helps to keep negative information about China out of the public eye.
Lastly, internet censorship in China is also used to suppress dissent and political opposition. The Chinese government does not want its citizens to be able to access information that could lead to such things. Censoring the internet helps prevent spreading information that could potentially be used to stir up trouble.
The Risks Of Using a VPN in China
As someone who has traveled to China before, I know firsthand the difficulties of trying to access the internet while inside the country. The Chinese government heavily censors the internet, making it challenging to stay connected to the outside world.
One way to bypass China’s internet censorship is to use a VPN service. A VPN, or virtual private network, encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a server in another country, allowing you to bypass China’s internet restrictions and access the internet as if you were in another country.
However, using a VPN in China is not without risks. The Chinese government has been cracking down on VPN use, and it is possible that you could be fined or even arrested for using one. Additionally, many VPN services are slow and unreliable in China, meaning it’s often not easy to visit the sites you want.
If you’re considering using a VPN service in China, weigh the risks and benefits carefully before deciding. It’s important to remember that while a VPN can help you bypass China’s internet censorship, it’s not a guaranteed solution.
How to use a VPN in China Safely
If you live in or plan to visit China, it’s important to use a VPN safely. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while using a VPN in China:
- Use a reputable VPN provider. There are many VPN providers to choose from, but not all of them are equally reputable or trustworthy. Do your research to find a VPN provider with a good reputation and a service that meets your needs.
- Use a server outside of China. Many VPN providers have servers inside China, but the Chinese government can more easily block these. If possible, connect to a server outside of China.
- Use a secure connection. When using a VPN, it’s essential to use a secure connection. Be sure to use a VPN provider that offers a high level of security, such as encrypted connections.
- Keep your software up to date. One of the best ways to stay safe when using a VPN is to keep your software up to date. This includes your VPN software, as well as your operating system and web browser. Regularly check for updates and install them promptly to help reduce the risk of vulnerabilities.
- Be cautious when sharing personal information. When you’re using a VPN, be careful about what personal information you share. Avoid sharing sensitive information, such as your credit card number or banking information, when using a VPN.
The Best VPNs for China in 2022
There’s no question that China is one of the most difficult countries to stay connected in. With the country’s stringent internet censorship laws, accessing the internet can be a challenge, even for those living there.
If you’re looking for the best VPN to use in China, you’ll want to find one that can bypass the country’s strict internet censorship laws. Fortunately, there are a few VPNs that are up to the task.
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPNs on the market, and for a good reason. The provider offers fast speeds, robust security, and can bypass China’s internet censorship laws.
ExpressVPN is another popular option that offers fast speeds and can bypass China’s censorship laws. The provider also has an excellent customer support team if you encounter any problems.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Surfshark is an excellent choice. The provider offers fast speeds and can bypass China’s internet censorship laws.
Final Thoughts
If you’re careful about which VPN you use in China, it is possible to stay safe while being able to use websites and services that you otherwise wouldn’t have access to.
The main takeaway is that it’s vital to do your research and only use a trusted VPN with a good reputation. That way, you stand a far better chance of not getting yourself into trouble during your time in China.
Leave a Reply