As the Online Safety Act ushers in an era of age checks, Brits are seeking out VPNs in record numbers to evade some of the legislation’s newly enforced rules.

ProtonVPN shared on X that it had an over 1,400% surge in sign-ups for its VPN services in the UK after age check requirements went into effect in the UK.

“Just a few minutes after the Online Safety Act went into effect last night, Proton VPN signups originating in the UK surged by more than 1,400%,” the VPN purveyor wrote.

“Unlike previous surges, this one is sustained, and is significantly higher than when France lost access to adult content.”

From the 25th of July, Ofcom has required any organisations showing harmful content to children – including pornography, self-harm, or eating disorder content – must issue age checks to users.

Those under the age of 18 will therefore be effectively blocked from access to hundreds of sites, ranging from Reddit and X, to Grindr and Pornhub.

If firms are found to not comply with the new rules, they risk a fine of up to £18 million, or 10% of their worldwide revenue, whichever is higher.

Senior managers could also face disciplinary action from Ofcom if the company is found in breach.

Sites can decide for themselves how to verify user age, with many opting for uploads of selfies with government IDs, or even using credit card information.

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However, many are concerned that these methods are not only a breach of privacy, but a security risk. The recent hack into the dating service Tea, which leaked thousands of identity verification photos, only adds fuel to these concerns.

VPNs have seen similar surges in popularity when users are faced with app or website restrictions. Before Pornhub decided to exit Florida due to restrictions, interest in VPNs from Floridians surged by 1000%.

The VPNs offer a work around from the age verification systems required on many sites, allowing users to connect to servers that appear outside of the UK, ensuring their identities stay anonymous.

While the VPNs may ensure privacy, they bring up yet another roadblock to the UK’s efforts to regulate the sprawling internet for safety and the protection of children.