How to Bypass Geo-Restrictions and IP Blockers Anywhere

Ali Qamar  - Cybersecurity Analyst
Last updated: January 15, 2024
Read time: 16 minutes
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Want to get around geo-restrictions and change your location online? This post explains how you can bypass web censorship and enjoy region-blocked services like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Vevo, Amazon Instant Video, Pandora, and more from anywhere.

THE TAKEAWAYS

Location-based restriction on content (aka geo-restrictions) is a common phenomenon in most countries that authorities implement for various reasons. Sometimes, governments restrict a specific content niche as it clashes with their values or interests. In other instances, such restrictions arise from the websites’ end for different reasons. For example, a streaming service may restrict the availability of a particular movie or TV show outside a specific region due to licensing issues. Whatever the case is, the ultimate victim of such policies is you – the end user. But thankfully, some workarounds still exist (such as VPNs) that help users bypass such content restrictions and IP blocking.

Many internet users believe the web is where we can freely share, view, or download content, no matter where we live. It is a great tool that has erased physical boundaries in a globalized digital world.

The reality is, unfortunately, very different. There is much discrimination depending on our geographic area of origin.

For example, when you live in a country like France, the United States, or the United Kingdom, you usually have access to a ton of content on the web.

However, if you live or in case move or travel to another country, you must waive your viewing privileges and settle only with the library available in your new country of residence.

Why do we have to face such blockage? How do these sites know where we are located? What can we do to overcome these restrictions?

You will find that all out in this article; let us start with some basics.

A quick guide to bypass geo restrictions and IP blockers