Is using a VPN legal?
Yes, using a VPN is completely legal in the United States, the UK, the EU, and most of the world. Whatever is illegal without a VPN obviously stays illegal with one. A few countries, such as China, Russia, and Iran, restrict or control VPN use.
A VPN is simply an encrypted internet connection, the same kind of technology banks and businesses use every day. No law in the US, UK, or EU prohibits or restricts using one. Millions of people use a VPN for privacy, safe browsing on public Wi-Fi, or remote access to their home network.
The confusion usually comes from what people do with a VPN. Violating copyright or breaking a streaming service's terms does not become legal because you did it through an encrypted tunnel. The technology is legal; your actions remain your own responsibility.
A small number of countries do restrict VPN use, including China, Russia, Iran, and the UAE. If you travel there, check the current local rules and your provider's guidance before you go.