Is it legal to use a VPN for streaming in central Berlin?

In Germany, including central Berlin, the use of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) is generally legal. VPNs are commonly used for enhancing online privacy and security by encrypting the user’s internet connection and masking their IP address. This technology is legal and widely used by businesses and individuals alike for legitimate purposes, including secure communication and accessing geographically restricted content. However, the legality of what you do while connected to a VPN remains subject to local laws. For instance, accessing streaming services via a VPN to watch content that is geographically restricted is often against the terms of service of many streaming platforms, though it is not illegal under German law.

Trivia: Germany is known for its strict privacy laws and was one of the pioneers in adopting stringent data protection regulations. Interestingly, the country’s commitment to privacy can be traced back to the census boycotts in the 1980s, which significantly influenced its modern data protection policies.