What Is a VPN in the Context of NCII?
VPNs can protect victim privacy during NCII research while simultaneously making it harder to trace perpetrators. Understanding both roles is important for victims and investigators.
A virtual private network (VPN) routes internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a remote server, masking the user's real IP address. In NCII contexts, VPNs play two distinct roles: they protect victims' privacy when researching NCII content online (preventing victim identification from web research activity); and they are used by perpetrators to mask their IP address when uploading or distributing NCII, complicating tracing efforts. Investigators have tools to pierce VPN anonymity, many VPN providers retain logs, and legal processes can compel disclosure of user information.
Key facts about this term
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Consider using a VPN when researching your own NCII situation online A VPN prevents websites from identifying you as the subject of the NCII when you visit to investigate.
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Understand that perpetrators who use VPNs are not untraceable VPN providers often retain logs and respond to legal process. Investigators have additional tracing tools including traffic analysis.
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Do not use a VPN to access illegal content VPN protection does not provide legal immunity for accessing prohibited content.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a VPN when checking if my images are online?
Using a VPN during research protects your privacy from the websites you visit while researching. ScanErase's biometric scan process is private regardless of VPN use.
Can a perpetrator avoid prosecution by using a VPN?
VPNs make tracing harder but not impossible. Investigators can subpoena VPN logs, use traffic correlation analysis, and pursue other identification methods. Many VPN-using perpetrators are successfully identified and prosecuted.
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