Why Is DuckDuckGo Banned in China & How to Access It?

DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine that emphasizes user anonymity and does not track search history. Unlike other search engines, it provides a clean and ad-free experience, making it a popular choice for those concerned about online privacy. However, this commitment to privacy has led to its ban in China.

China's strict internet regulations, often referred to as the Great Firewall, block access to many foreign websites and services, including DuckDuckGo. This ban is part of the country's broader efforts to control the flow of information and maintain surveillance over its citizens' online activities. In the following sections, we will explore why DuckDuckGo is banned in China and how users can access it despite the restrictions.

Why Did China Block DuckDuckGo?

China's decision to block DuckDuckGo is rooted in its broader strategy to control the internet and monitor online activities. The ban is not an isolated incident but part of a series of actions aimed at maintaining strict oversight over digital information.

  • Control Over Information: The Chinese government aims to control the flow of information within its borders. DuckDuckGo's commitment to privacy and anonymity conflicts with this objective, as it prevents the government from tracking users' search activities.
  • Great Firewall Enforcement: The Great Firewall is China's primary tool for internet censorship. DuckDuckGo's unfiltered search results bypass this firewall, making it a target for blocking.
  • National Security Concerns: The Chinese authorities often cite national security as a reason for internet censorship. DuckDuckGo's refusal to store user data poses a challenge to surveillance efforts, leading to its ban.
  • Precedent of Blocking Foreign Services: China has a history of blocking foreign websites and services that do not comply with its regulations. DuckDuckGo joins a long list of banned platforms, including Google and Facebook.
  • Promotion of Domestic Alternatives: By blocking foreign services like DuckDuckGo, China encourages the use of domestic search engines that are easier to regulate and control.

How to Access DuckDuckGo in China in 3 steps

1) Download and install a VPN app: Choose a reliable VPN app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Follow the installation instructions to set it up on your device.

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2) Open the VPN app and select a server: Launch the VPN app and browse through the list of available servers. Select a server located in a country where DuckDuckGo is not blocked like the United States, Canada, or Germany.

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3) Connect to the VPN and access DuckDuckGo: Once you've selected a server, click the connect button. After the VPN establishes a connection, open your web browser and visit DuckDuckGo to enjoy unrestricted access.

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What Do VPNs Do?

VPNs allow users to bypass geo-restrictions by masking their IP address and making it appear as though they are accessing the internet from a different location. By connecting to a server in a country where the desired content is available, users can access websites, streaming services, and other online resources that are otherwise restricted in their actual location.

Tips for Accessing DuckDuckGo in China

For those in China looking to access DuckDuckGo, here are some helpful tips to navigate the restrictions effectively:

  • Use a reputable VPN: Choose a reliable VPN service to bypass the Great Firewall. VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy, the most downloaded VPN app of 2023 - Data.ai, is a great option.
  • Select the right server location: When using a VPN, connect to a server in a country where DuckDuckGo is not blocked, such as the United States, Canada, or Germany.
  • Keep your VPN updated: Regularly update your VPN app to ensure it has the latest security features and can effectively bypass new censorship measures.
  • Use alternative DNS settings: Changing your device's DNS settings to a public DNS service like Google DNS or Cloudflare can help improve access to blocked websites.
  • Stay informed about censorship updates: Keep up with the latest news on internet censorship in China to adapt your strategies and tools accordingly.

What Happens If I Use DuckDuckGo in China?

If you attempt to use DuckDuckGo in China without any additional tools, you will likely find that the website is inaccessible. This is due to the Great Firewall, which blocks access to many foreign websites and services, including DuckDuckGo. As a result, your browser will either display an error message or fail to load the page entirely.

Additionally, even if you manage to access DuckDuckGo momentarily, the connection may be unstable and slow. The Chinese government's internet censorship measures are designed to disrupt and prevent access to unapproved sites, making it difficult to use DuckDuckGo consistently. This can lead to a frustrating browsing experience with frequent interruptions and limited functionality.

Use VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy to Access DuckDuckGo!

Using VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy, you can easily access DuckDuckGo in China. Our free plan offers unlimited time, data, and bandwidth, providing basic VPN functionality with free servers. This makes it an excellent option to try before committing to our premium plans.

With over 100 million downloads, VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy is trusted by users worldwide. In 2023, it was the most downloaded VPN mobile app according to Data.ai. Join our community and enjoy unrestricted access to DuckDuckGo by downloading VPN - Super Unlimited Proxy here.

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