Lawmakers in Wisconsin have proposed a bill that would entirely ban the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access certain content. The proposed law, A.B. 105/S.B. 130, also requires websites distributing “sexual content” to implement an age verification system and block VPN users. However, this solution ignores the problems with existing laws, which are easily circumvented by using VPNs.
The bill’s expansion of the definition of “harmful to minors” could potentially encompass a wide range of protected speech, including literature, music, television, and films. Critics argue that this is a misuse of the term and would give lawmakers too much discretion to decide what content is acceptable for young people. The law would also impact businesses, students, journalists, abuse survivors, and individuals who value their privacy.
Experts predict that users will find workarounds within hours, such as using non-commercial VPNs or setting up their own servers. This means the law would not effectively block access to VPNs but instead make the internet less safe and private for many users.
Lawmakers need to recognize that age verification laws themselves are the problem and abandon this approach. Instead of banning VPNs, they should focus on education, support for parents, and addressing the root causes of online harm. The proposed bill is an attack on digital privacy and freedom, and lawmakers who do not understand how VPN technology works should not write laws about it.
To stop A.B. 105/S.B. 130, residents are urged to contact their Senator and express their concerns. The issue highlights the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms in the digital age.
Source: https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2025/11/lawmakers-want-ban-vpns-and-they-have-no-idea-what-theyre-doing