J&K Police Crack Down on Unauthorized VPN Use in Shopian; 15 Users Identified
SHOPIAN, JANUARY 02, 2026 — In a major effort to bolster cybersecurity and public safety, the Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted a district-wide verification drive targeting the use of unauthorized Virtual Private Network (VPN) services in Shopian.
The operation, carried out in strict compliance with prevailing prohibitory orders, aimed to prevent the misuse of encrypted digital platforms that could pose security risks.
During the drive, 15 individuals were identified for bypassing local regulations through unauthorized digital tools.Following a thorough technical scrutiny and background check, the police confirmed that no terror-related links or adverse criminal antecedents were discovered among the identified users.
Consequently, no formal FIRs were registered. However, as a preventive measure, security proceedings were initiated against 10 individuals, most of whom belong to the younger demographic, for violating the existing orders.
These individuals received a strict warning to refrain from using unauthorized VPN services in the future to avoid further legal consequences.Among the 15 people identified, five were found to be minors. In these cases, the police opted for a supportive approach, providing counseling and advice to the minors in the presence of their guardians. The sessions focused on promoting lawful digital conduct and raising awareness about the safety risks associated with unauthorized online activities.
J&K Police have reiterated their commitment to enforcing lawful directives and ensuring a secure digital environment across the district.