Latest VPN News Affecting Europe

EU eIDAS: VPNs Won’t Protect Europeans’ Privacy if Law Passes, Experts Warn

A recent article from TechRadar highlights concerns over the proposed EU eIDAS 2.0 regulation, which could significantly impact online privacy and security for European citizens. The regulation, a revision of the EU’s digital identity law, includes provisions that could lead to greater surveillance and censorship across Europe. Experts, including secure browser providers and privacy advocates, warn that even the most secure VPNs will not be able to protect users’ privacy if the law passes. The law would allow EU states to issue proofs of trust that web browsers must accept, potentially enabling governments to intercept all internet traffic and increasing the risk of cyberattacks and online censorship

Read more: TechRadar

Russia Plans to Block VPNs in March 2024

According to a report by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russia plans to block VPN services across the country starting March 1, 2024. This move is part of a broader effort by the Russian government to control internet access and prevent citizens from bypassing state censorship. The demand for VPN services has significantly increased among Russian internet users, especially to access platforms owned by Meta, such as Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook. The EU has criticized this move, stating that maintaining or increasing ties with Russia amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine is incompatible with EU values

Read more: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Apple Removes Leading VPNs from Russian AppStore

Novaya Gazeta Europe reports that Apple has removed several leading VPN apps from the Russian AppStore following a request from Roskomnadzor, Russia’s media regulator. The VPN services affected include ProtonVPN, Red Shield VPN, NordVPN, and Le VPN. This action is part of the Kremlin’s strict online censorship measures introduced since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As a result, users in Russia will no longer be able to download or update these VPN services, making it increasingly difficult to access blocked sites and maintain online privacy

Read more: Novaya Gazeta Europe

Conclusion

These significant developments that could impact internet privacy and security in Europe. The proposed EU eIDAS 2.0 regulation poses a threat to online privacy, while Russia’s plans to block VPNs and Apple’s compliance with Russian censorship laws further restrict access to free and open internet. These developments underscore the importance of staying informed about changes in digital regulations and the ongoing challenges to maintaining online privacy and security.

By understanding these recent changes, European citizens and organizations can better navigate the evolving landscape of internet privacy and take necessary measures to protect their online activities.