Have Police in Budgam Taken Action Against VPN Violations?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 24 individuals were penalized for violating VPN usage bans.
- Budgam Police are committed to enforcing digital platform laws.
- VPNs are considered security threats by local authorities.
- The public is urged to comply with all digital service regulations.
- Awareness of VPN implications is vital for responsible use.
Srinagar, Jan 3 (NationPress) The police in Budgam, a district in Jammu and Kashmir, announced on Saturday that they have taken measures against 24 individuals for breaching the ban on the utilization of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
A police statement released on Saturday noted, “As part of ongoing efforts to implement lawful directives and curb the misuse of digital platforms, Budgam Police have intervened in the unauthorized use of VPN services throughout the district.”
“Following the prohibitory orders issued by the District Administration on December 29, 2025, which banned unauthorized VPN usage, Budgam Police conducted thorough verification and monitoring.”
“From December 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026, 24 individuals were identified for infringing these orders. As a result of investigations and technical evaluations, two FIRs were lodged against individuals with questionable terror-related backgrounds, highlighting the security threats linked to the misuse of encrypted platforms.”
“Moreover, security proceedings have been initiated against 11 individuals, aged between 18 and 40 years, for failing to comply with the prohibitory orders.”
“These individuals were bound under Sections 126 and 170 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and were subsequently released after appropriate warnings.”
“Budgam Police reiterate their commitment to ensuring public order, upholding lawful directives, and preventing the improper use of digital platforms.”
“The public is urged to adhere strictly to all directives from the District Administration and to utilize digital services responsibly,” the statement concluded.
Most of the 20 districts in J&K have enacted bans on VPN usage, with district magistrates expressing concerns that such networks are being exploited by anti-national elements, creating significant security risks.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology that allows users to create a secure network connection while accessing public networks. VPNs encrypt internet traffic and conceal online identities.
This encryption complicates efforts for third parties to monitor online activities and extract data, as the encryption occurs in real-time.