If you're in the UK and wondering whether using a VPN is legal — this guide got you covered. With growing concerns around online privacy, geo-blocked content, and government surveillance, many users are turning to VPNs like UFO VPN or Nord VPN to stay safe and stream content freely. But what exactly is the legal status of VPNs in the UK? And are there any trusted alternatives to popular options like NordVPN? Read and explore the answers.
Is VPN Legal in the UK?
Yes, VPNs are completely legal in the UK. There are no laws prohibiting individuals from using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect their privacy, access geo-blocked content, or enhance online security.
However, there’s a catch:
While VPNs are legal, using them for illegal purposes is not. This includes:
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Downloading pirated content from torrenting sites
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Accessing the dark web for criminal activity
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Hacking or identity theft
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Violating copyright agreements (e.g., bypassing Netflix’s terms of use)
So long as you’re using a VPN for personal privacy, streaming, or secure browsing, you’re within your rights under UK law.
Is UFO VPN Legal in the UK?
Yes, UFO VPN is 100% legal to use in the UK. It provides encrypted tunneling protocols, masking your IP address and allowing access to geo-restricted services like:
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BBC iPlayer (from abroad)
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Gaming or P2P networks
- adult content (like Porn hub)
However, as with all VPN services, you must use it responsibly. Accessing services that violate local regulations — or bypassing region-locked gambling laws — could still violate the terms of service of those specific platforms.
How to Unblock Content Legally in the UK
With 3000+ server in over 100 countries, UFO VPN is open to download as a free iPhone VPN, free Android VPN(with VPN APK), free Windows VPN and free Mac VPN. Install the app and sign up or log in.
Open the app, choose a free server locationwhere your desired streaming/gaming/browsing platform is available.
We recommend free USA VPN, free UK VPN and free Australia VPN.
Pro Tip
UFO VPN is compatible with popular platforms in gaming and streaming as CODM VPN, PUBG VPN, Netflix VPN and more!
After connecting, visit What is My IP tool to see your current location and ensure your real IP is visible.
With all set, visit your favorite platform and start browsing without geo-blocks or buffering!
Now you should be able to view content or access services otherwise restricted in the UK.
VPN vs. No VPN in the UK: What's the Difference?
Using a VPN in the UK offers clear advantages, especially when it comes to privacy, access, and security. With a VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through a secure server—this hides your IP address, protects your identity from ISPs, advertisers, and potential hackers, and allows access to geo-restricted content (e.g., streaming libraries, gaming platforms, and crypto sites like Stake).
Without a VPN, you’re browsing openly, meaning your activities can be tracked, sensitive data can be exposed, and access to restricted platforms may be blocked due to local laws or regional filters. Especially for users accessing services not officially supported in the UK, like Stake.com, a VPN can be essential for both access and protection.
| Features | With a UK VPN | Without a UK VPN |
| IP Masking | ✅ | ❌ |
| Access Geo-blocked Sites | ✅ | ❌ |
| Privacy Protection | ✅ Strong encryption | ❌ Exposed data |
| ISP Throttling Avoidance | ✅ Possible | ❌ Risk of slowdowns |
| Legality in UK | ✅ Legal if used appropriately | ✅ Legal |
Bonus: Top UK VPN Alternatives to Nord VPN
NordVPN is popular but not always the perfect fit. Here are some great VPN alternatives that work reliably in the UK.
1. UFO VPN
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Pros:
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Free version available
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Easy-to-use UI
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Good speeds for streaming
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Supports unblocking Stake, Netflix, YouTube, etc.
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Cons:
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Limited features on the free plan
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Fewer server locations than Nord
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Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
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Best for: Users looking for a lightweight, free proxy VPN
UFO VPN - The best free VPN helps:
Unlock Any Website in one click
100% Free Plan with No Credit Card
Change your IP address to 100+ locations
Protects your personal data 24/7
Watch your favorite shows with 0 buffering
Connect accross mobiles & deskstops
2. Surfshark
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Pros:
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Unlimited device support
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Fast and secure
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Great for torrenting and streaming
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Cons:
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Slower customer support
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Supported OS: All major platforms
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Best for: Families or multi-device households
3. ProtonVPN
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Pros:
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Strong privacy protection
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Open-source transparency
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Offers a reliable free plan
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Cons:
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Free plan has limited servers
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Supported OS: Windows, Linux, Android, iOS
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Best for: Privacy-conscious users
4. Windscribe
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Pros:
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Generous free tier (10 GB/month)
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Built-in ad blocker
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Good for Netflix
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Cons:
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Can be inconsistent on some streaming sites
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Supported OS: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, browsers
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Best for: Streamers on a budget