A virtual private network (VPN) is a useful tool that allows you to mask your IP and create a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the Internet. This means you can browse the web more privately, especially when connected to a public Wi-Fi network. Another use case for a VPN is to access sites that are blocked within your region. For example, you could be sitting in New York accessing content on a Chinese social media platform (though we don’t recommend that). However, using a VPN can have the opposite effect, blocking your access to content that you could otherwise view.
I recently received an email from Carol in Douglasville, Georgia with the following question:
“Why am I blocked from viewing sites when using a VPN? Blocked from replying to emails I receive from Veterans Administration, Social Security, and government sites I need to connect to regarding benefits It has been.”
She said she tried changing servers and even switched to another city in the United States, but was still unable to access the site. Carol, that sounds like a serious problem. It’s natural to want to use a VPN when accessing websites, but it can be very frustrating if you can’t access them. In this situation, you may even need to disable your VPN, which could put you at risk. Below we explain why this issue occurs and how to avoid it.
VPN on your smartphone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
What is a VPN?
a Virtual private network (VPN) is a secure connection method used to add privacy and security to private and public networks such as the Internet and Wi-Fi hotspots. VPNs are often used to protect sensitive data and keep your online activities safe from cyber threats. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and provides anonymity by masking your online identity, protecting you from hackers, prying eyes, and data breaches. It also allows you to access content that is restricted based on your geographic location, making it a great tool for increasing your online privacy and freedom. 10 reasons you need a VPN at home.
Why can’t I access certain websites using a VPN?
Website owners can decide who can and cannot access their site. Many sites block IPs from known VPNs or data centers, especially if the content is restricted to a specific country or region.
What is artificial intelligence (AI)?
Major platforms such as Netflix and banking sites often use VPN detection tools to prevent users from accessing their services anonymously. Government websites also do this, primarily to prevent people from circumventing regional or national restrictions. For example, in countries with strict content rules, blocking VPNs can prevent people from accessing content that the government doesn’t want you to see.
However, setting up a VPN in different parts of the same country doesn’t always work. why? Because some sites are trying to keep cybercriminals out. VPNs are great for privacy because they can hide your identity and location, but they can also be used for fraud. Government websites that deal with things like taxes, voting, and benefits need to know who you are and where you’re logging in to prevent abuse. Allowing a VPN can make it easier for scammers to gain entry.
Another reason to block a VPN is to keep bots out. Bots can use VPNs to scrape government websites and overload systems. Blocking VPN traffic protects sensitive information and makes it easier to track and authenticate real users.
VPN used on laptop. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
How to use a VPN without compromising your banking apps
6 ways to bypass VPN blockers
If you can’t access certain sites when you have your VPN on, try the steps below. Start with the first step and continue until the problem is resolved.
1. Use a trusted VPN provider
Using a reliable VPN service is one of the best ways to bypass VPN blocks. Not all VPNs are created equal, so choosing a quality provider can make a big difference. Look for a VPN that offers obfuscated or “stealth” servers. This disguises your VPN traffic as normal internet usage, making it harder for detection systems to block it.
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A good VPN should also have a large server network with many options across different locations so that you can easily switch if one server gets blocked. Some services offer dedicated IP addresses that are less likely to get flagged than shared IP addresses. For the best VPN software, read my expert review of the best VPNs to browse the web privately. Windows, Mac, Android, iOS devices.
Woman using VPN on her mobile phone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
How to keep your hotspot private and secure with a VPN
2. Switch to another server
If one server isn’t working, try connecting to another server in the same country or region. VPN providers typically have multiple servers, and you may be able to avoid blocks by switching between them. If this doesn’t work, use an obfuscated server. These servers are designed to hide the fact that you are using a VPN. It can bypass strict VPN detection systems, especially on government and streaming websites.
3. Change VPN protocol
To bypass VPN blocks, change the connection protocol your device uses. VPN protocols determine how devices link to servers, and some protocols are better at avoiding detection than others.
If you’re having trouble accessing a particular website, switching to a different protocol may help. For example, some protocols balance speed and security, while others may prioritize faster performance or efficiency, increasing their ability to work around limitations.
For more information, different protocols can vary in effectiveness, so it’s important to investigate which protocol is best suited for your specific use case.
Will a VPN prevent apps from tracking me?
4. Enable split tunneling
If you only need a VPN for specific apps or websites, enable split tunneling in your VPN settings. This allows you to access blocked sites using your regular connection while keeping your VPN active for other purposes. For example, you can enable split tunneling to watch movies on Netflix using your regular internet connection while keeping your banking apps safe with a VPN.
5. Try a different VPN provider
Not all VPNs are created equal. Some are better at getting around blocks than others. If your current VPN isn’t working, consider switching to one that specializes in avoiding detection.
6. Use mobile data or another network
If all else fails, switch to a mobile data connection or another network. In some cases, the problem may not be with your VPN but with your current ISP (Internet Service Provider).
30% of Americans over 65 want to be removed from the web. The reason is as follows
Cart important points
VPNs are great for getting around restrictions, but some websites have blockers that stop VPN traffic. There are several ways to get around these blockers, and sometimes it’s as simple as switching servers. You have the best chance of unblocking a VPN if you use a reliable service. It monitors your server to make sure everything is running smoothly and offers additional features such as a dedicated IP address.
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