VPN Ban in Poonch: Authorities Order Two-Month Suspension of Services
Published
- VPN Suspension Order: Two-month Poonch district-wide VPN ban issued under BNSS due to rising suspicious usage.
- Security Concerns: Authorities cite encrypted data, IP masking, and website bypassing as potential risks.
- Strict Enforcement: SSP directed to enforce the ban; violations punishable under BNS provisions.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district have ordered a two-month suspension of all Virtual Private Network (VPN) services, citing concerns over their possible misuse for unlawful activities. The move mirrors a similar action taken recently in the neighbouring Rajouri district.
Why the VPN Ban Was Imposed in Poonch
The suspension order was issued by District Magistrate Ashok Kumar Sharma under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). According to officials, there has been a noticeable rise in suspicious VPN usage across the district.
Authorities say VPN services can encrypt data, hide IP addresses, and bypass website restrictions, making it difficult to track online activity. The order warns that this level of anonymity could pose cybersecurity risks, including exposure to cyber attacks and misuse for illegal communication.
The District Magistrate has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to ensure strict compliance. Individuals found violating the order may face action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Context: Similar Measures in Rajouri
Poonch is not the first district in the region to tighten restrictions on VPN usage. Rajouri authorities recently issued a similar suspension to curb unlawful online activity and prevent misuse of encrypted communication tools.
The latest order continues the administration’s efforts to regulate internet usage in sensitive areas, where encrypted channels can complicate security monitoring and raise concerns about potential threats.
Enforcement and Penalties
The administration has clarified that the suspension is temporary but necessary. Local internet providers have been instructed to block VPN services immediately. Users attempting to access or distribute VPN tools during this period may face legal penalties.
Authorities have stated that the move aims to strengthen security and reduce the chances of cyber misuse, especially in light of increasing digital threats.
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