Understanding the Shift: VPN Services in India Post-CERT-In Directives

 CERT‑In 2022: When Logging Became Mandatory

In June 2022, India’s cybersecurity watchdog CERT‑In dropped the bombshell: all VPNs serving Indian users must log names, IPs, timestamps, and browsing records—and keep them for five years. Privacy advocates cried foul, and leading VPNs responded:

• NordVPN and ExpressVPN pulled their physical Indian servers offline.

• Smaller services shut up shop in India rather than betray user trust.

• Innovative providers rolled out "virtual Indian servers," simulating Mumbai or Delhi IPs from offshore hubs.

The takeaway? No-log promises and local servers don’t mix—and users deserve a smarter alternative.

Physical vs. Virtual Indian Servers

Physical Servers (inside India):

• Pros: Ultra-low latency for gaming or streaming.

• Cons: Subject to CERT‑In’s logging, undermining privacy guarantees.

Virtual Servers (offshore):

• Pros: Indian IPs without local surveillance—think Delhi address, Singapore homebase.

• Cons: Mere milliseconds of extra delay, usually imperceptible.

In 2025, almost every privacy-first provider opts for virtual servers, striking the sweet spot between access and anonymity.

Getting Started: UFO VPN Setup in 4 Steps

Picking Your Perfect Best free VPN India Service

When you’re scanning features, bookmark these must-haves:

Personal Recommendation: As someone who skips between Delhi news sites and Mumbai’s latest film premieres, I rely on UFO VPN’s "India (Virtual)" servers daily. Zero buffering, zero logs—just pure, uninterrupted streaming.

Pro Tips for Finger‑Proof Privacy

• Regular Updates: Keep UFO VPN patched for the latest security fixes.

• Strong Passwords: Pair your VPN login with a unique password manager entry.

• Avoid Free Networks: Even with a VPN, dodgy Wi‑Fi can host credential stealers.

• Check for Leaks: Run IP/DNS leak tests quarterly to ensure airtight anonymity.

FAQs

1. Can I legally use a VPN in India for streaming or work?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in India for legitimate activities such as accessing geo-restricted content, securing public Wi-Fi, and ensuring privacy during remote work. However, using a VPN for illegal purposes is still punishable by law.

2. How does a VPN protect me from data collection in India?
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, which prevents third parties—including ISPs and potential government surveillance—from monitoring your browsing behavior or collecting personal information.

3. Are there any risks to using free India VPN services?
Yes, many free VPNs may log your data, display intrusive ads, or offer limited encryption. Always research providers before trusting them with your online activity. Consider secure options like UFO VPN, which offers both free and premium versions with no-log policies.

4. Do VPNs help bypass internet throttling in India?
Absolutely. VPNs can mask your activity from ISPs, which may prevent them from throttling your connection during high-bandwidth usage like streaming or gaming.

5. Will a VPN slow down my internet in India?
While VPNs add encryption layers, premium services like UFO VPN are optimized with global servers—including nearby alternatives to India—that minimize speed drops and maintain stable connections.

6. What should I look for in a VPN if I’m based in India but traveling abroad?
Choose a VPN with virtual Indian servers, high-speed performance, reliable security, and access to streaming platforms. UFO VPN offers smart routing and geo-unblocking features, making it ideal for travelers wanting Indian IPs abroad.

7. Is it possible to install a VPN directly on my router in India?
Yes, many VPNs, including UFO VPN, support router installation, allowing you to protect all devices connected to your home network with a single setup.

8. Can I use a VPN for torrenting in India?
Yes, but make sure your VPN supports P2P sharing and has a strict no-logs policy. Using a VPN for torrenting ensures anonymity and adds a layer of protection from potential legal complications.