Increased state internet restrictions may lead to a surge in VPN usage among Americans, as found in a survey revealing that almost half (47%) of citizens currently employ VPNs for privacy purposes.
In the digital age, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become increasingly popular in the United States. Here's a breakdown of the latest statistics and trends surrounding VPN usage in the country.
According to recent surveys, over half of US adults (43%) have used a VPN, with this number rising significantly among younger generations. A staggering 50% of both Gen Zers and millennials have used a VPN this year. Interestingly, men tend to use VPNs more than women, with 50% of men surveyed having used or currently using a VPN, compared to 36% of women.
The primary reason for using a VPN is to protect one's IP address, as reported by over half (52%) of US adults who have used a VPN. Another significant motivation is to save money, particularly on streaming services, with 19% of VPN users citing this as their primary reason.
When it comes to saving money, VPNs can be beneficial. By altering your server's location, you can access lower-priced streaming service costs in other regions. However, it's worth noting that only 9% of VPN users use one for this purpose.
While VPNs can offer a degree of online privacy, they are not a failsafe measure against identity theft or scams. It's strongly recommended to use antivirus software in addition to a VPN for comprehensive online security.
Younger users tend to stream more US-based digital content, seek to protect their online privacy, and access geo-restricted services more often, especially in public Wi-Fi environments and for streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. As a result, VPNs are more frequently used by generations younger than baby boomers.
It's important to note that content can be restricted to certain regions due to licensing agreements and copyright restrictions. Some websites and apps have firewalls and VPN detection features that can block access. It's crucial to understand if accessing content is legal in your country.
In terms of long-term usage, 10% say they've used or tried a VPN for one to two years, while 19% say they've used it for over two years. Conversely, 45% of those using a VPN to access illegal or banned apps started using a VPN in the past year.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that some users might connect to a VPN to access content that's banned in their area, such as regionally locked sports games or shows only offered in another country.
In conclusion, VPN usage in the United States is on the rise, particularly among younger generations, who use VPNs for a variety of reasons, including protecting their IP addresses, saving money on streaming services, and accessing geo-restricted content. However, it's important to remember that VPNs are not a replacement for antivirus software and that using a VPN to access illegal or banned content can have legal consequences.
Some recommended VPN providers include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Proton VPN. As always, it's essential to do your research and choose a reputable provider that prioritises your privacy and security.
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