Amid heightened security measures, two men have been booked in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district for allegedly using Virtual Private Network (VPN) applications on their mobile phones in violation of prohibitory orders issued by the local administration. Police said the action forms part of a broader enforcement drive following a temporary ban on VPN services imposed on security grounds.
According to officials, the district administration recently restricted the use of VPNs after receiving inputs from security agencies. Authorities maintain that VPN tools can be used to bypass monitoring mechanisms and internet restrictions, potentially posing risks to public order and national security in sensitive areas.
Police identified the accused as Khalid Abrar and Mohd Irfan. Separate FIRs have been registered against them, and further investigation is underway, including scrutiny of their digital activity.
Patrol checks lead to first booking
Police said the first case came to light during routine patrolling by a team from the Bhagla Bharth police post. The patrol allegedly noticed Khalid Abrar using a VPN application on his mobile phone. When questioned about the purpose of the app, he reportedly failed to provide a satisfactory explanation.
“The matter was immediately reported to the concerned police station, and legal proceedings were initiated for violation of the district magistrate’s orders,” a police officer said. Abrar’s mobile phone has been taken for examination to determine the extent and nature of VPN usage.
Second case near Gandoh
In a separate incident, Mohd Irfan, a resident of Tendla (Chilli), was allegedly found using a VPN near Shali Pul in the Gandoh area. Police said an FIR has been registered at Gandoh police station for violating prohibitory orders currently in force.
A police spokesperson said Irfan’s digital devices are also being examined. “We are trying to ascertain whether the VPN use was limited to routine browsing or linked to any suspicious online activity,” the spokesperson said, adding that digital forensic reports would provide clarity.
Security rationale behind VPN ban
Officials said the VPN restriction was imposed as a preventive measure to curb the misuse of digital tools that can obscure user identity and online activity. Security agencies have repeatedly flagged concerns that such tools may be exploited to spread misinformation, evade surveillance or facilitate unlawful communication.
Police said enforcement will continue against anyone found violating administrative orders. Residents have been urged to strictly follow security advisories and avoid using VPNs or proxy services until the restrictions are formally reviewed.
Legal position and possible penalties
Legal experts note that cases of this nature may attract provisions related to disobedience of lawful orders, disturbance of public order and other relevant sections, depending on facts established during the investigation. The quantum of punishment, they said, would be decided by the court based on evidence and intent.
Mixed local response
Some local residents acknowledged that the VPN ban has affected routine online activities such as access to certain websites and remote work tools. However, many also said they understood the administration’s concerns in view of the region’s security sensitivities.
Officials reiterated that the curbs are temporary and would be reviewed once the situation normalises.
“The objective is not to inconvenience the public, but to ensure safety and prevent misuse of technology,” an official said.
Investigation ongoing
For now, the focus of the probe remains on establishing whether the VPN usage in the two cases had any security implications. Police have appealed to the public to avoid rumours or misleading information and to cooperate with authorities.
“The investigation is ongoing, and appropriate legal action will follow based on the findings,” officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Police said, reiterating that compliance with lawful orders is essential in the interest of public safety.
