Japan Falls Behind in VPN Awareness and Usage in Global Survey

Japan’s VPN Usage: A National Concern

In an increasingly digital world, where internet security is pivotal, Japan finds itself lagging significantly behind global standards in Virtual Private Network (VPN) awareness and usage. A recent international survey conducted by NordVPN has shed light on this troubling scenario, revealing that Japan has the lowest recognition and utilization rates among 23 countries surveyed.

Critical Findings from the Survey

Commissioned by NordVPN, which provides security services from Amsterdam, the study highlights Japan's VPN recognition rate at a mere 31%, a staggering 33 percentage points lower than Belgium and Poland, both at 64%. Even more concerning is the fact that the recognition rate has only increased by 5% since 2021, placing Japan at the bottom of the list in terms of growth among participating countries. In stark contrast, neighboring Asian nations boast impressive rates—Hong Kong at 91%, Singapore at 86%, Taiwan at 76%, and South Korea at 65%.

The usage rate for VPNs in Japan stands at only 13%, making it the lowest among major countries in Asia. This discrepancy emphasizes not only a lack of awareness but also a delayed response to the rising tide of cyber threats. According to data from the National Police Agency, phishing reports surged by approximately 89% in 2025, with online banking fraud losses reaching about 4.2 billion yen. The attacks targeting personal accounts have become increasingly sophisticated, making VPN usage more crucial than ever.

The Risks of Low VPN Adoption

VPNs are essential tools that protect personal information by encrypting data and masking IP addresses, thereby minimizing the risk of cyber attacks. However, despite the evident dangers, the survey revealed that only 3% of Japanese respondents who do not currently use VPNs plan to start within the next year. This indicates a concerning lack of awareness and urgency regarding online privacy.

Hidden Costs of Free VPNs

Interestingly, a subset of VPN users in Japan resorts to free options, which poses significant risks. Free VPNs may offer an alluring zero-cost service, but they often carry