We all know how frustrating it is to encounter geo-blocking while browsing the web. And while a VPN can bypass such limitations, it’s not the only solution.
The alternatives include but are not limited to using a proxy server and TOR network. These are particularly important if you need a quick solution or are short on cash.
While other methods to evade geo-restrictions exist, weighing their risks and limitations is vital. So, let’s now look at how to bypass geo-blocking without a VPN.
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What is geo-blocking and why is it used?
Geo-blocking is a feature that limits you from accessing a website based on your geolocation. It monitors visitor internet protocol (IP) addresses to determine your location before enforcing restrictions.
Platforms employ this technology due to various reasons starting with content licensing agreements. These usually dictate countries where users can access certain media content.
Internet censorship by governments is another reason certain websites apply geo-blocking. Site owners can block you to avoid going against local laws.
Region-based regulations like data protection acts can additionally cause platforms to enforce access restrictions. For example, some websites block visitors from the European Union (EU) due to non-compliance with the EU’s GDPR policy.
That said, geo-blocking can frustrate users who want to access websites/content unavailable in their location. And it gets worse if you need a quick fix without a VPN.
But worry not. We’ve got your back!
How to bypass geo-blocking without a VPN
Proxy servers are a good option to bypass geo-blocking without the need for additional security features. It hides your IP by routing traffic through a remote server, allowing you to access content from different countries. The TOR network also works effectively at evading internet censorship online safely.
Here are more details below:
Use a proxy server
A proxy server is a gateway between your device and the world wide web. It channels your traffic through a remote server located in another country.
So, whenever you access the internet, it swaps your IP to that of your preferred region. This tricks geo-blocked platforms into giving you access by thinking you’re in a supported location.
A proxy server also caches websites previously accessed by other users like you. As a result, you may experience faster speeds when visiting the same platforms.
Furthermore, this method employs aggressive techniques to compress data passing through its network. This results in lower bandwidth costs, which is ideal if you use a metered connection.
But it has downsides:
Proxy servers hardly use proper algorithms to encrypt traffic like VPNs. This exposes you to potential hacking and theft of personally identifiable information.
A lack of adequate encryption also exposes you to web tracking when using the internet. In addition, you risk landing in trouble for breaking censorship laws in your country.
Moreover, some proxy server providers monitor your browsing habits to serve target advertising. They additionally sell that data to the highest bidders for the same purpose.
Not to forget, many other users depend on proxy servers like you. Depending on the network’s traffic load can slow down your internet.
Of course, you’re probably wondering how to securely bypass geo-blocking without a VPN. Say no more!
Use TOR network
The Onion Router (TOR) is an open-source technology for accessing the web anonymously. It does an excellent job of hiding your online activities for enhanced user privacy.
The service routes your traffic through a relay network powered by thousands of volunteer nodes. When using it, your data goes through random routers, making it difficult to trace.
Unlike a proxy server, it provides hardened anonymity by employing multiple layers of encryption. You also get unique IP minus the privilege of choosing a preferred location.
You can access the network using a TOR-compatible browser across all operating systems. Some of the popular mentions around include TOR and Brave.
Although TOR provides anonymous browsing, it’s not entirely secure.
Allow us to explain:
Your data remains visible on the network’s exit nodes when using TOR. While no one can tell whom it belongs to, sharing personal information can expose you.
And despite your location remaining hidden, platforms can still detect TOR traffic. As such, you may encounter access restrictions from sites that have firewalls.
Anyone can also operate an exit node, exposing users to man-in-the-middle attacks. An attacker can use it to distribute malware and gain control of your device.
Research further shows that it’s possible to de-anonymize TOR users by inspecting router data. Using NetFlow Analyzer to monitor traffic, a spy can easily expose you.
But don’t panic!
Tips for safely bypassing geo-blocking
These strategies can help you stay secure whenever bypassing geo-blocking without a VPN.
Use a reputable proxy provider
Using a reputable proxy vendor boosts your online safety. You can start by checking customer ratings just to be sure about a provider’s reliability.
The next thing you need to do is examine the data logging policy of vendors. Avoid any that keeps records of customers’ online activities to evade exposing your privacy.
Check for the IP pool size to determine the size of a proxy provider. Fewer IPs are usually an indicator of a network that lacks subnet diversity.
Good proxy servers also come at a slightly higher cost. It would help if you dug in for details to determine why some providers sell themselves short.
Keep personal information secure
To avoid identity theft, you should take care of your personal information, including your name, bank details, social security number, and login credentials.
One way to keep such information secure is by using password vaults. These are apps that store your login credentials in a hack-proof environment. According to password manager statistics, users are three times less likely to fall victim to identity theft.
Moreover, the tools can generate complex usernames and passwords. You can prompt them to enter the details whenever you visit websites without typing.
Modern browsers can also save your login credentials and credit card information. This minimizes the risk of losing sensitive details through keystroke logging malware.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
You can consider enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on platforms you regularly use. The security measure requires two forms of identification to grant access to the user’s data.
For example, when you login into a website, you’ll be prompted to enter an additional passcode. It’s usually sent to you via email, text, or phone call.
Some platforms use third-party services like Authy and Google Authenticator to deliver the passcodes. Without them, hackers that get hold of your credentials won’t gain entry to your accounts.
Install an antivirus software
As you already know, cyberattackers can comprise your data when bypassing geo-blocking without a VPN. However, you can avoid the risks by using a good antivirus.
We recommend ToalAV. This software is tailor-made to prevent malware and viruses from infecting your device. Likewise, it can stop you from visiting phishing websites designed to steal your personal information. In addition, it offers a secure and easy-to-use password vault for your credentials.
Avoid untrustworthy methods
You should avoid using untrustworthy methods to circumvent geo-blocking without a VPN.
Some examples include free proxy server vendors that scream bells and whistles. These depend on harvesting your data to sell to third parties to keep their services running.
The same goes for the use of unauthorized browsers to access the TOR network. They come bundled with spyware and keyloggers ready to steal your sensitive data.
Conclusion
Bypassing geo-blocks is essential to unlocking online content restricted from your country. Even though a VPN is built for this job, it’s not the only method you can use.
Other solutions, like proxy servers and TOR networks, work just as well. But they come with risks and limitations you must consider before choosing.
You now know how to bypass geo-blocking without using VPN. Note, however, that our recommendations are not the only workarounds available. Feel free to do independent research but remember to steer clear of any unsafe options.
