Planning a trip to China and wondering whether you’ll be able to scroll your Facebook feed or message friends on Messenger? If so, you’re not alone. Facebook is one of the many popular platforms currently inaccessible in mainland China — and this guide will show you exactly how is Facebook banned in China, how to bypass restrictions safely, and how to access Facebook securely with a VPN.
Is Facebook Banned in China Now (Update 2025)
Facebook was officially banned in China in July 2009, following political unrest in the Xinjiang region. Chinese authorities claimed that protest organizers were using Facebook to communicate and coordinate. Since then, Facebook has remained off-limits, alongside other Western platforms like:
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Instagram
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Twitter
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YouTube
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WhatsApp
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Google Services
This ban is part of the broader “Great Firewall of China,” which is a combination of legislative actions and technical measures enforced by the Chinese government to control and monitor internet traffic. Accessing Facebook without protection (e.g., via public proxies or unauthorized tools) can put your data, location, and browsing history at risk. Even worse, it could attract unwanted attention from local ISPs or firewalls.
Using a legitimate, secure VPN is the only responsible way to access restricted services in countries with censorship.
Can You Use Facebook in China without a VPN
No — not directly. Whether you’re using Wi-Fi in a hotel, public café, or mobile data on the street, you’ll find Facebook simply doesn't load. The app may open, but your feed won't refresh, and Messenger messages won’t send.
But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost.
Thousands of tourists, expats, and digital nomads use tools like UFO VPN - a free proxy VPN to safely access Facebook and other restricted platforms in China.
How to Unblock Facebook in China
Here’s a clear guide to getting Facebook working in China using a VPN — specifically UFO VPN, which supports advanced protocols designed to bypass censorship.
Step 1: Download a VPN via Official Links
VPN websites and app stores may be blocked once you're in China. So, download and install UFO VPN in advance.
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Visit UFO VPN's official website.
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Choose a plan or use the 100 % free version.
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Install it on all your devices (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS)
Step 2: Choose a Server Outside China
Open the app and select a server location like Singapore, the US, UK, or Germany — all of which offer fast, unrestricted Facebook access.
For Mobile Users:
For Desktop Users:
Step 3: Connect to the Server
Once connected, UFO VPN encrypts your traffic and reroutes it through the selected country — making it appear as if you’re browsing from outside China.
✅ Step 4: Open Facebook Normally
That’s it! Now you can post, chat, or livestream on Facebook as usual.
🌟Bonus: UFO VPN also auto-switches protocols to avoid detection — which is crucial in countries with deep packet inspection like China.
| Features | Descriptions |
| Works in China | Built-in stealth mode and obfuscation bypass censorship |
| No Logs | Protects your privacy from tracking or ISP surveillance |
| Fast Speeds | Stream Facebook videos and reels with no buffering |
| Cross-Platform | Supports iOS, Android, Windows, macOS |
| Affordable | Free version available, premium plans are cost-effective |
Legal Concerns of Using Facebook in China
Using a VPN in China as a foreign traveler is generally tolerated for personal use, especially if you're discreet and only using it for accessing social media, email, or work tools. However:
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Avoid promoting VPNs to locals
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Don’t use Facebook to post politically sensitive content
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Stick to trusted providers like UFO VPN that offer encryption and data safety
Tricks: Facebook Alternatives Inside China
If you prefer not to use a VPN, here are some China-based alternatives to Facebook:
| Facebook Features | China Alternatives |
| Social feed & posts | WeChat, Weibo |
| Messaging | QQ, WeChat |
| Live streaming | Douyin (TikTok CN) |
| Groups & communities | Baidu Tieba |
Keep in mind these platforms are heavily moderated, and your content will be subject to Chinese laws and censorship.
FAQs
1. Is Facebook still banned in China in 2025?
Yes. As of 2025, Facebook is blocked by the Great Firewall of China.
2. Can I use Facebook on Wi-Fi in Chinese hotels or airports?
No. All internet providers within China restrict access to Facebook.
3. What’s the safest way to access Facebook in China?
Use a trusted VPN like UFO VPN with obfuscation technology.
4. Will I get punished for using Facebook in China?
Foreign travelers using VPNs for personal use rarely face consequences. Be discreet.
5. Is it safe to download VPNs in China?
No. VPN websites are usually blocked with a Chinese IP. Download UFO VPN before in case of any issues.