Authorities have suspended all virtual private network (VPN) services in Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu division for two months. The orders came through public notifications by the district administrations situated near the Line of Control (LoC). On November 30, 2025, Ashok Kumar Sharma, Magistrate, Poonch, issued the suspension under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) with immediate effect. He stated, "The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) informed that there has been an unprecedented high usage of VPNs in the past few days at different locations of the district by suspicious internet users." Earlier, Rajouri administration had ordered a similar suspension. Police warned that VPNs encrypt data, mask IP addresses, and bypass internet blocks and firewalls. This can make sensitive data open to cyber attacks. "Adversaries can use VPN service to create an atmosphere of fear in view of the prevailing situation," Mr. Sharma said. The VPN ban aims to "strengthen surveillance capabilities and ensure public safety." Authorities requested residents to cooperate, emphasizing the decision's goal to maintain law and order in the region near the LoC.