New regulations in Italy requiring mandatory age verification for certain websites have led to a significant increase in the demand for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). The rules, implemented by Italy’s communications regulator AGCOM, came into force on September 21, 2023, prompting immediate a-ction from internet users concerned about their online privacy and data security.
Surge in VPN Demand Following New Law
Leading provider NordVPN reported a substantial spike in interest from Italy coinciding with the law’s enforcement. On September 21, the company’s VPN sales in the country were 136% higher than the daily average of the preceding 30 days. The organic traffic to NordVPN’s Italian website saw an even more dramatic increase, surging by 219% compared to the 30-day average. This trend persisted, with sales remaining 120% higher than average on the following day, September 22.
Data Security Concerns Drive User A-ction
The core of the issue for many Italian users is the method of age verification. To access websites deemed to have content unsuitable for minors, users are now required to present their national identity card (Carta d’Identità Elettronica – CIE) or use the public digital identity system (SPID). According to Laura Tyrylyte, Head of Public Relations at NordVPN, the rise in VPN usage is linked to citizens seeking to bypass these new restrictions and protect their digital privacy. The requirement to upload sensitive identity documents has fueled fears over data security and the potential for data breaches. This event follows a similar trend seen earlier in the year when a temporary ban on ChatGPT in Italy also caused a massive spike in VPN demand.
Concise Cyber 