Budgam Latest to Ban VPN Use Over Security Concerns – Alfaaz – The Words

Raja Bilal

Srinagar: The District Administration Budgam has ordered ban on use of all Virtual Private Network services in the district for two months, citing public safety and cyber security concerns.

The order, issued by the District Magistrate Budgam under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, a copy of which lies with Alfaaz – The Words, follows inputs from the Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam highlighting an unprecedented surge in VPN usage across various parts of the district.

According to the order, security agencies observed that a significant number of unidentified internet users were accessing VPN services in recent days. The administration noted that such activity could be exploited for unlawful and anti national purposes, including circulation of inflammatory material, incitement to unrest, and coordination of activities prejudicial to the maintenance of law and order.

The order further states that VPNs enable encrypted data transmission, mask IP addresses, and allow users to bypass website restrictions and firewalls. These features, officials said, increase the vulnerability of sensitive data to cyber threats and hinder lawful monitoring.

In view of these concerns, the District Magistrate directed the suspension of all VPN services on mobile phones within Budgam district with immediate effect. The restriction will remain in force for two months from the date of issuance unless withdrawn earlier.

The order has been issued ex parte and is being promulgated for public information through the district website, leading newspapers, and official notice boards. The Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam has been directed to ensure strict implementation.

Notably, the Budgam order comes against the backdrop of similar restrictions imposed recently in other Valley districts including Kupwara, Shopian, and Kulgam following security assessments that flagged misuse of such services.

Officials have appealed to residents to comply with the directive in the interest of public safety, law and order, and cyber security.