Proton VPN
Swiss-based with open-source apps and a free tier, plus a Stealth protocol for restrictive networks.
For strict networks: the Stealth protocol.
Try Proton VPNDeepSeek is blocked or restricted in 3 of the 100 countries we track. Updated October 2026.
Chinese AI app DeepSeek is banned on government devices in the US, Australia, Taiwan and elsewhere. Italy's privacy regulator effectively pulled it from Italian app stores in January 2025.
Removed from Italian app stores after a privacy order.
Banned on government devices.
New downloads paused Feb–Apr 2025.
Banned on government devices.
Banned on many government devices.
Picked for privacy and getting messages through.
Swiss-based with open-source apps and a free tier, plus a Stealth protocol for restrictive networks.
For strict networks: the Stealth protocol.
Try Proton VPNObfuscation is switched on automatically on every server, so there is no special mode to find.
For strict networks: automatic obfuscation (protocol set to Automatic).
Try ExpressVPNOpen-source apps, unlimited devices and servers in every US state, at a low price.
For strict networks: the Shadowsocks proxy option.
Try Private Internet AccessLargest network of the six, with the NordWhisper protocol for networks that inspect traffic.
For strict networks: NordWhisper or obfuscated servers.
Try NordVPNUnlimited devices on one plan, with NoBorders mode that switches on in restrictive regions.
For strict networks: NoBorders mode.
Try SurfsharkServers labelled for specific streaming services and a 45-day refund window on longer plans.
For strict networks: a nearby server (CyberGhost has no stealth mode).
Try CyberGhostWe earn a commission if you buy a VPN through our links. It never changes what we report as blocked. How we pick and how we make money
DeepSeek is blocked in North Korea and Turkmenistan.
Our picks are Proton VPN, ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access. Picked for privacy and getting messages through. Open your country's page to see which one is connecting there this week.