Apple, Google Remove Multiple VPN Apps in India: Here's Why

In a significant move, Apple and Google have removed several virtual private network (VPN) apps from the App Store and Play Store in India. This action follows a directive from India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which cited the non-compliance of these apps with the country's 2022 cybersecurity regulations. The regulations require VPN providers to store critical user information for at least five years, including user names, addresses, transaction histories, and IP addresses.

Ministry of Home Affairs' Directive

The Indian government's 2022 cybersecurity rules mandate that VPN providers must retain essential user data for a minimum of five years. This requirement is in line with India's broader efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and prevent the misuse of online platforms for illegal activities. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) emphasized the importance of keeping track of user data, which can be critical for investigations and national security purposes.

Non-Compliance with Cybersecurity Regulations

Many VPN service providers failed to meet the MHA’s stringent regulations. Nearly half a dozen VPN apps, including Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1, Hide.me, and PrivadoVPN, were found to be non-compliant and were consequently removed from the App Store and Play Store. These VPN providers did not adhere to the data retention policy outlined in the government’s 2022 directive, leading to the removal of their services from both Apple and Google’s platforms in India.

VPN Providers' Reaction to Data Retention Regulations

The government's cybersecurity regulations have faced criticism from prominent VPN providers, such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark. These companies have expressed concerns about the impact on user privacy, arguing that the data retention requirements could compromise their customers' security and anonymity. In response, some VPN providers opted to withdraw their server infrastructure from India altogether, while others have continued to operate in the country without actively promoting their services.

VPN Apps Still Available in India

Despite the government’s crackdown on non-compliant VPN apps, some providers have continued to operate in India. These VPN services are not actively advertised or promoted, but users can still access them for privacy and security reasons. However, the lack of active promotion means that users may have to search for these services through alternative channels or third-party websites.

Lack of Official Comments from Apple and Google

Neither Apple nor Google have provided an official statement regarding the removal of the VPN apps from their app stores. Both tech giants have yet to comment on the reasons behind the removal or the steps they took to ensure compliance with the Indian government’s directive.

Conclusion: Impact on VPN Services in India

The removal of several VPN apps from the App Store and Play Store in India marks a significant development in the ongoing battle between privacy advocates and government regulations. While the MHA’s directive aims to improve cybersecurity and prevent misuse of VPN services, it also raises concerns about the potential erosion of user privacy. The ongoing tensions between privacy and security will likely continue to shape the future of VPN services in India, as providers navigate increasingly complex regulations.