The internet landscape in Uzbekistan is characterized by significant government control and surveillance. While the digital infrastructure has improved, access to certain information remains restricted. International organizations monitor the situation closely, noting that the government frequently blocks websites and social media platforms deemed sensitive or critical. Consequently, many citizens and travelers rely on circumvention tools to access the open web. Reports indicate that despite these restrictions, the technical usage of such tools is widespread across the country to bypass censorship filters (1).
There has been considerable confusion regarding the specific legal status of VPNs within the country. Recent legislative amendments aimed at curbing unauthorized access to telecommunications networks led to rumors that all anonymity tools were banned. However, official government sources have clarified that these laws target illegal hacking activities rather than the ordinary use of proxy servers or encryption software. Authorities state that legislation does not explicitly prohibit individuals from using these technologies for personal information access or business purposes (2).
"An erroneous opinion is dominated in discussions in social networks and the media that the Law prohibits the use of VPNs, various proxy servers, messengers or social networks. However, the introduced amendments and addendas do not consider the issues of restricting access to information."
Despite the clarification that using VPNs for legitimate purposes is not criminalized, the environment remains challenging. Service providers are required to block content as directed by the state, and specific VPN protocols may be throttled or blocked technically even if not legally banned for the user. The distinction implies that while you might not face prosecution solely for having the software, its functionality is often disrupted. Observers emphasize that the government maintains a tight grip on the country's information space through these technical measures (1).
Source:
https://freedomhouse.org/country/uzbekistan/freedom-net/2024
https://www.uzembassy.org.tr/news/3036?language=en
Last updated: 15-01-2026 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
