There are many different ways to access the internet. A virtual private network (VPN) is one of the tools that can help manage how and where we connect online.
While VPNs can offer privacy and protection, they can also be used to bypass safety settings and access harmful content. Our advice for parents and carers explains what VPNs are, why children might use them, and how parents can respond in a way that supports safety, trust, and open communication.
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a tool that hides your location and encrypts your internet traffic. It can make it look like you're browsing from another country or using a different network. VPNs are often used by adults to protect their privacy, especially on public wifi.
Most VPNs are available as apps for phones, tablets, and computers. They can also be accessed through websites or built-in settings on some devices. Many services require a paid subscription, but there are also free versions available – these often have limitations or may carry additional risks.
Do children use VPNs?
VPN use among young people is often motivated by privacy concerns rather than harmful intent.
Recent research by Childnet and Nominet 1 shows that 21% of children aged 8 to 17 have used a VPN, with usage increasing by age. The main reasons children report using VPNs are to stay safe online and protect their privacy (38%) and to access region-restricted content (30%).
In the report:
- almost a quarter (23%) of young people say they started using VPNs in the three months since the Online Safety Act came into force. This is consistent with the number who started using VPNs a year ago (21%)
- 16% of the children and young people who use VPNs say they used them to get around parental controls and 16% to get around school wifi blocks and monitoring
- about 10% of young people who use a VPN say they used them to look at things which they are not supposed to see for their age.
What children may access with a VPN
Using a VPN can significantly change what a child is able to access online. Without a VPN, most devices are subject to filters set by parents, schools, or internet providers. These filters help block harmful or age-inappropriate content.
With a VPN, children may be able to:
- access websites or apps that are blocked by parental controls or school networks
- view content restricted by region (eg adult content, gambling, or violent media)
- use anonymous browsing to hide their activity from their search history
- bypass time limits or usage restrictions set on devices or apps.
Without a VPN, children are more likely to:
- be protected by safety filters and content blockers which have been turned on
- have their online activity visible to parents or safeguarding software
- be limited to age-appropriate content based on device or network settings.
This shift in access can make it harder for adults to safeguard children effectively, especially if the VPN is used without their knowledge.
Conversation starters: younger children
The focus with young children is on sparking curiosity and basic understanding while providing reassurance. You could try:
"Do you know what a VPN is? Let’s learn about it together."
"Some apps can hide what we do online. Why do you think someone might want to do that?"
"If you ever see something online that feels wrong or confusing, you can always talk to me."
Use simple language and analogies (eg. ‘a VPN is like wearing a disguise online’) to build foundational understanding. Reinforce that safety rules are there to protect, not punish.
Seven top tips for parents
1.
Understand what a VPN does
Take time to learn how they work and why they’re used. This will help you have informed conversations with your child.
2.
Build trust through open conversations
Children are less likely to hide their activity if they feel safe talking to you. Keep communication open and non-judgemental.
3.
Ask why your child is using one
If you think your child is using VPNs to access the internet then stay curious, not confrontational. Use open questions like:
"What made you want to use a VPN?"
"Is there something you’re trying to access that you can’t normally see?"
This helps you understand their motivations – whether it’s privacy, curiosity, or avoiding restrictions.
4.
Talk about risks
Explain that VPNs can bypass safety settings, making it easier to access inappropriate or unsafe content. Some aren’t secure and could put their data at risk. Remember, while risks exist, most children use VPNs for legitimate reasons such as protecting privacy and staying safe on public wifi.
5.
Set clear expectations and boundaries
Include VPN use in your family’s tech agreement. For example: ‘We don’t use tools that hide what we’re doing online without talking about it first.’ If you decide to allow them to be used, choose a reputable provider and set it up together.
6.
Use parental controls to manage app downloads
Enable settings that require your child to request permission before downloading new apps. This gives you the chance to check apps before they’re installed and spot VPN tools early.
7.
Use it as a learning opportunity
Talk about digital privacy, surveillance, and online rights. Help your child understand when VPNs are useful (such as on public wifi) and when they can be risky.
Conversation starters: older children
The focus for conversations with older children will be around awareness, trust, and digital literacy. You could try:
"I know VPNs can be useful for privacy, but they can also be risky. What’s your take on using them?"
"If you ever wanted to use a VPN, would you feel comfortable telling me why?"
"Do you think schools or parents should be able to see what you do online? Why or why not?"
Framing the conversation around curiosity and shared learning can help the conversation go well. It's best to avoid accusatory language – this age group may be experimenting with independence, so focus on building trust.
VPN safety checklist for parents and carers
Children and young people are growing up in a digital world that’s constantly changing. By staying informed, asking questions, and keeping communication open, you can help your child navigate online spaces safely and confidently. Here's a reminder of what you can do:
- Talk to your child about why they might use them.
- Check devices for installed VPN apps.
- Include VPN use in your family tech agreement.
- Know where to get help if you're concerned.
If you're concerned about your child's online activity or need support, you can speak to a safeguarding lead at school or you can contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.
More online safety advice for you and your family
Worried about a child?
If you need guidance or support with an issue affecting children, you can call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@NSPCC.org.uk