Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are entirely legal in Germany, with no existing legislation restricting their use by individuals or businesses. The country maintains a strong commitment to internet freedom, and the government generally does not impose technical or legal control over internet infrastructure to restrict connectivity. Freedom House reports that the legal environment in Germany supports open internet access, ensuring that citizens can utilize tools like VPNs without fear of prosecution for the act of using the software itself (1).
The German government actually encourages the use of VPNs for specific security purposes. The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) explicitly recommends these tools to protect personal data when using public internet connections. This endorsement highlights the role of VPNs in safeguarding digital privacy rather than viewing them as tools for illicit activity. By encrypting data traffic, these networks provide a critical layer of defense against potential cyber threats in open environments (2).
"A VPN internet connection transmits all of your data in encrypted format as standard, eliminating any opportunity for other parties connected to the public WLAN to intercept your data. VPNs should not be confused with the encrypted transmission protocol HTTPS."
While the technology is legal, users must still adhere to German laws regarding online conduct. The protections afforded by VPNs do not grant immunity for illegal activities such as copyright infringement or cybercrime. German courts have upheld decisions protecting online rights, but they also enforce regulations against illegal content. Therefore, while individuals are free to employ VPNs for privacy and security, they remain subject to the broader legal framework governing internet usage in the country (1).
Source:
https://freedomhouse.org/country/germany/freedom-net/2024
https://www.bsi.bund.de/EN/Themen/Verbraucherinnen-und-Verbraucher/Informationen-und-Empfehlungen/Cyber-Sicherheitsempfehlungen/Router-WLAN-VPN/Virtual-Private-Networks-VPN/virtual-private-networks-vpn.html
Last updated: 11-01-2026 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
