Afghanistan's Social Media Ban Leads to Surge in VPN Usage
Following a total internet shutdown, the Afghan government has imposed restrictions on social media, resulting in a significant spike in VPN usage.
According to Proton VPN, one of the best VPNs, there was a 35,000% increase in usage over the baseline between October 6-7, 2025.
VPNs could not help bypass the total internet shutdown, but the subsequent social media ban has driven users to seek alternative means of accessing restricted platforms.
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have all been restricted in Afghanistan, prompting concerns over internet censorship and online freedoms.
Author's summary: Afghan social media ban sparks 35,000% VPN usage surge.