Triggered by Telegram curbs, VPN downloads hit 2026 high

The Indian government’s decision to temporarily restrict access to Telegram in early June sparked a significant shift in digital behavior, marked by a dramatic rise in searches for virtual private network (VPN) services. According to reports from NDTV, there was a noticeable surge in interest for VPNs following the enforcement of the ban on June 16. Initially, search activity for these services was minimal, with little to no demand observed before the restrictions were implemented. However, as the ban took effect, the level of interest quickly escalated. Within hours of the restrictions being enforced, search queries related to VPNs increased dramatically, reaching a peak of 99 within a short period. This rapid escalation highlights the immediate concern among users who wished to circumvent the new limitations.

The Times of India further elaborates on the broader implications of the ban, noting that it led to an unprecedented spike in the download of virtual private network applications in India. Data from App Figures indicates that the number of downloads for the top 100 VPN apps surged to 919,000 on June 17, marking a substantial increase compared to previous periods. Specifically, this figure represents a 76% rise from the June 9–15 average and a 63% increase relative to the broader June 1–15 baseline. By June 16, the number of downloads had already reached 645,000, setting the stage for a record-breaking day for VPN app downloads in the country since the start of 2025. This surge underscores the urgent need for users to find alternative means of accessing restricted platforms, particularly Telegram.

Among the most impacted services were the messaging apps themselves. Proton VPN emerged as a major beneficiary of the situation, experiencing a remarkable 157% increase in downloads, jumping from an average of approximately 60,500 per day to 155,430 on June 17. Similarly, Turbo VPN saw its downloads nearly double, reaching 122,030, while Ninja VPN experienced an astonishing 669% growth. ExpressVPN also reported a significant increase, with downloads rising by 345%. These figures illustrate the extent to which users turned to these services to maintain access to Telegram and other potentially restricted platforms.

In addition to the direct use of VPNs, users also explored alternative messaging services. The decline in Telegram downloads—from a daily average of 125,048 to just 38 on June 17—reflects the immediate impact of the restrictions. Conversely, Telegram X, an alternative Telegram client, witnessed a staggering 6,509% increase in downloads, reaching 350,764. Similarly, iMe, a Telegram-linked messaging app, saw a massive 22,018% rise in downloads, totaling 170,372. Signal, known for its emphasis on privacy, also experienced a 571% increase in downloads, reaching 32,106. These developments suggest that users are not only seeking ways to bypass the restrictions but are also exploring alternatives that align more closely with their preferences or values.

The response to the ban has been multifaceted, with users either opting to use VPNs to maintain access to Telegram or shifting to alternative messaging platforms. While larger platforms like WhatsApp have seen only modest increases in downloads, likely due to their established user base, the overall trend points to a significant change in how users navigate online communication in light of governmental restrictions. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether these trends will persist or if they represent a temporary reaction to the specific circumstances surrounding the Telegram ban.