VPN usage in India surged by 150% after the government blocked Telegram for 150 million users to curb exam-related cheating, according to Proton VPN's general manager.
Google searches for "telegram vpn" and "vpn for telegram" have also surged
Jun 18, 2026
10:01 am
What's the storyVPN usage has witnessed a massive surge in India, following the government's decision to ban access to Telegram.
The move was aimed at curbing cheating during a nationwide entrance exam for aspiring medical students.
Telegram ban in India triggered biggest VPN download surge of 2026
Telegram ban in India sparks a rush to VPNs, rival apps | TechCrunch
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Why has India suddenly banned Telegram?
Telegram challenging Indian government order that temporarily blocks its use, report says
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India suspends Telegram over medical entrance exam fraud concerns | The National
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