[VPN. Photo Credit to Pixabay]

As the accessibility to the digital world expands, schools in the United States are increasingly restricting the usage of VPNs, prioritizing the focus and safety of students.

In 2024, studies revealed that approximately 25% of high school students in the United States use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass school internet restrictions. 

This rapidly growing global trend highlights the ongoing tension between schools maintaining safe and secure learning environments and upholding digital freedom.

The rapid growth in VPN usage among students is caused because VPN services are very easily accessible. These tools allow students to bypass firewalls to access restricted content by the school, allowing them to communicate on blocked platforms, or maintain online privacy.

However, this digital  freedom provided the VPN comes with risks. Many free VPNs monetize their user’s services by collecting and selling user data, including browsing history and location.

This practice exposes students and the school networks to significant privacy risks and potential cybersecurity threats.

Schools argue that banning VPNs is necessary for maintaining safe and distraction-free online environments.

VPNs can override firewalls, giving students access to inappropriate content,which undermines the integrity of the school network security.

Moreover, free VPNs can introduce malware or phishing attacks, attacking both institutional and personal data.

Despite these concerns, some argue that banning the use of VPNs entirely may have some unintended consequences.

Students engaged in international research projects or studying in countries with restricted internet access may need VPNs to access essential resources.

For example, an educational platform or research paper might be blocked by firewalls, blocking students from accessing them.

Another side effect of banning VPNs is that it might affect the education of digital literacy.

Schools often enforce restrictions of VPNs or even other virtual items without properly educating students on how to be responsible in the virtual world.

Integrating lessons on the benefits and risks of VPN usage -  alongside broader cybersecurity and ethics education, could better prepare students for navigating the realities of digital life.

According to a report from Linewize, advanced VPNs often mask their traffic, making it increasingly difficult for schools to detect and block unauthorized use.

This evolving technology shows a collaborative approach that includes education, awareness, and updated security measures. 

Furthermore, banning VPNs doesn’t  guarantee effectiveness.

Students will always find ways to outsmart restrictions, creating an ongoing challenge for the school IT departments.

This will not only wastes time of both students and the faculty members but also creates an adversarial relationship between the students and school administrators.

Therefore, numerous experts recommend using a controlled VPN in education, rather than  solely banning it.

Schools could allow students from using VPNs for specific academic purposes under the supervision of a trusted adult, which will ensure that students learn how to use these tools responsibly.

Additionally, incorporating  cybersecurity education into curriculums can help students make better informed decisions online.

The recent ongoing debate of VPN bans in schools reflects  a broader discussion on the topic of digital freedom in the  modern world.

While ensuring online safety is crucial, it should not bother accessibility and critical thinking of the students.

Schools should strike a balance between these priorities by encouraging trust, and promoting responsible behaviors to prepare students for a digital future.