Is Using a VPN in China Illegal?

The development of the internet has changed how we communicate, work, and live. Globally, there are notable differences in internet freedom; China, for example, is well-known for its strict internet laws. A Virtual Private Network is one method that many internet users utilize to get around these restrictions (VPN). However, is it unlawful to use a VPN in China?

This question has significant implications for both residents and visitors in the country. In this article, we will explore the legal landscape of VPN use in China, its implications, and what you need to know to stay compliant.

Understanding China’s Internet Censorship

China’s internet is governed by the Great Firewall, a sophisticated system that controls and filters online content. This firewall blocks access to many popular websites and services, including Google, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, as well as numerous news sites and foreign media. The Chinese government justifies these restrictions as necessary for maintaining social stability and national security.

The Legal Status of VPNs in China

The use of VPNs in China exists in a legal gray area. Here are the key points to understand:

1. Regulation and Licensing:
   • In January 2017, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) announced a crackdown on unauthorized VPN services, stating that all VPN providers must obtain government approval to operate legally.
   • Only state-approved VPNs, typically used by businesses and educational institutions, are legal. These approved services are subject to government monitoring and control.
2. Personal Use:
   • While the use of unauthorized VPNs is technically illegal, enforcement is inconsistent. Many individuals, including expatriates and travelers, continue to use VPNs without facing legal consequences. However, there have been instances where individuals were fined for using unapproved VPNs.
3. Government Actions:
   • The Chinese government periodically intensifies its efforts to block and disrupt VPN services, especially during sensitive political events or periods of unrest.
   • Major VPN providers often face blocking attempts, leading to sporadic access issues for users.

Risks of Using a VPN in China

Using an unauthorized VPN in China comes with certain risks:

1. Legal Consequences: Although enforcement is rare, there is a potential risk of fines or other legal actions if caught using an unapproved VPN service.
2. Service Disruptions: The Great Firewall is continuously updated to block VPN services, which can result in sudden disruptions or degraded performance.
3. Data Privacy: Using unreliable or unknown VPN services can expose your data to additional risks, including potential surveillance or data breaches.

Staying Safe While Using a VPN in China

If you choose to use a VPN in China, here are some tips to minimize risks:

1. Choose Reputable VPN Providers: Opt for well-known VPN services that have a track record of operating in restrictive environments like China. Providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Astrill are commonly used by expatriates and travelers.
2. Keep Software Updated: Ensure your VPN software is always up-to-date to benefit from the latest security features and improvements.
3. Avoid Free VPNs: Free VPN services often lack the security features and reliability needed to bypass the Great Firewall effectively and securely.
4. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news regarding VPN use in China, as the legal and technical landscape can change rapidly.

A really good VPN service (paid or free) that will be accessed from China

A VPN service that can consistently get around the Great Firewall while upholding strict security and privacy standards is necessary if you want to access the internet from China. The top VPN providers that are known to function well in China are listed below, both for free and for a cost:

Top Paid VPN Services for Use in China

1. ExpressVPN

Overview:
ExpressVPN is often considered the best VPN for use in China due to its consistent ability to bypass the Great Firewall and its robust security features.

Key Features:

• Stealth Servers: Specially designed to bypass the Great Firewall.
• Strong Encryption: Uses AES-256 encryption.
• Server Network: Over 3,000 servers in 94 countries.
• No-Logs Policy: Ensures user privacy.
• 24/7 Customer Support: Live chat and email support.

Pros:

• Consistently effective in bypassing Chinese censorship.
• Fast and reliable connections.
• Excellent customer support.

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to other VPNs.

2. NordVPN

Overview:
NordVPN is another top choice for users in China, known for its extensive server network and strong security features.

Key Features:

• Obfuscated Servers: Designed to work in countries with internet restrictions.
• Double VPN: Routes traffic through two servers for extra security.
• Server Network: Over 5,400 servers in 59 countries.
• No-Logs Policy: Strict no-logs policy.
• 24/7 Customer Support: Available via live chat.

Pros:

• Excellent security features.
• Reliable performance in China.
• Affordable pricing plans.

Cons:

• Occasional slower speeds during peak times.

3. VyprVPN

Overview:
VyprVPN is known for its proprietary Chameleon protocol, which helps to bypass VPN blocking and censorship in China.

Key Features:

• Chameleon Protocol: Scrambles metadata to avoid detection.
• Strong Encryption: AES-256 encryption.
• Server Network: 700+ servers in 70+ locations.
• No-Logs Policy: Independently audited.
• 24/7 Customer Support: Available via live chat.

Pros:

• Effective at bypassing the Great Firewall.
• Strong focus on security and privacy.
• User-friendly interface.

Cons:

• Smaller server network compared to competitors.

4. Surfshark

Overview:
Surfshark offers a combination of affordability, strong security, and effective bypassing capabilities, making it a great option for users in China.

Key Features:

• Camouflage Mode: Makes VPN traffic look like regular internet traffic.
• Strong Encryption: AES-256 encryption.
• Server Network: Over 3,200 servers in 65 countries.
• No-Logs Policy: Strict no-logs policy.
• 24/7 Customer Support: Live chat support.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing.
• Unlimited simultaneous connections.
• Reliable in bypassing censorship.

Cons:

• Relatively new, so less established than some competitors.

Free VPN Options for China

1. Windscribe

Overview:
Windscribe offers a free version with 10GB of data per month and access to servers in 10 countries, making it one of the more generous free VPN options.

Key Features:

• Free Data Allowance: 10GB per month.
• Server Network: Access to servers in 10 countries (with the free plan).
• Encryption: AES-256 encryption.
• No-Logs Policy: Ensures user privacy.
• Stealth Mode: Helps to bypass censorship.

Pros:

• Generous free data allowance.
• Strong security features.
• Reliable for occasional use.

Cons:

• Limited data and server access compared to paid plans.
• Slower speeds during peak times.

2. ProtonVPN

Overview:
ProtonVPN offers a free plan with unlimited data, although it only provides access to servers in three countries.

Key Features:

• Unlimited Data: No data caps on the free plan.
• Server Network: Access to servers in three countries.
• Encryption: AES-256 encryption.
• No-Logs Policy: Strong privacy protections.
• Secure Core: Routes traffic through multiple servers for extra security.

Pros:

• Unlimited data.
• Strong security and privacy protections.
• Reliable performance for a free VPN.

Cons:

• Limited server locations.
• Slower speeds due to heavy use.

Conclusion

While the use of unauthorized VPNs in China is technically illegal, enforcement against individual users is relatively rare. However, the risks are real, and it’s important to stay informed and cautious. For those living in or traveling to China, using a VPN can be a necessary tool to access the global internet, but it should be used responsibly and with an understanding of the potential legal and technical challenges. By choosing reputable VPN providers and staying vigilant, you can navigate China’s restrictive internet environment more safely and effectively.