Proton VPN Observatory (2021)
Documenting spikes in Proton VPN use as people fight for online freedom.
VPNs are essential tools to combat internet censorship. At Proton VPN, we regularly see signups spike following major geopolitical events around the world, be they protests, contested elections, or government crackdowns. To see how people worldwide fight internet censorship, we’ve begun documenting all significant spikes in Proton VPN usage.
Sudan - November 19, 2021
50,000% increase in signups
Internet access cut in apparent military coup - At least five senior Sudanese government officials were detained during an apparent military coup, leading to internet and phone signal outages across the country.
Nigeria - June 5, 2021
3,000% increase in signups
Government protests Twitter policies - Nigeria had indefinitely suspended Twitter’s activities, two days after the social media platform removed a post from President Muhammadu Buhari.
Senegal - March 5, 2021
13,000% increase in signups
Public protests - On March 5, clashes broke out between Senegalese police and protesters after Senegal opposition leader faced rape charge in court.
Proton VPN's mission is to ensure freedom of speech and fight online censorship everywhere. We're proud to stand up for online freedom and enable people to access a free and open internet.