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Internet: Security

Asked by Charlie DewhirstConservativeForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 9 September 2025UIN 73309

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the National Cyber Security Centre has issued guidance for (a) politicians and (b) the public on using Virtual Private Networks.

Answered by Stephen Doughty

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) provides advice and guidance for high risk individuals (https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/collection/defending-democracy/guidance-for-high-risk-individuals). NCSC also works closely with the Parliamentary Authorities on their advice and support to Members of both Houses of Parliament.

Personal Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are not primarily used for cyber security purposes, and their use can introduce security risks to a user, not just mitigate them. As such NCSC neither recommend nor discourage the use of VPNs by private individuals.

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