Using a VPN, or virtual private network, will allow Canadians to still access news in their social media feeds on Facebook and Instagram.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is beginning to block access to news in Canada in response to the federal government’s Online News Act (Bill C-18).
The retaliatory measure excludes Meta from forming agreements with news publishers to pay them for linking to news content in Canada.
Meta began testing measures to block news earlier this year and officially began a widespread rollout of blocking news on August 1. The process is expected to take a few weeks before all users no longer see news in their social feeds.
The Canadian government says the Online News Act could also target Meta’s newest social platform, Threads. X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Snapchat and other social networks aren’t included in the act and news links can still be shared freely on those platforms.
How can I still access Canadian news?
- The easiest way is to sign up for our free daily email newsletter. We deliver the top headlines to your inbox so you never miss a story!
- The second option is to use a VPN, or virtual private network. Not only does using a VPN protect your online privacy, but it allows you to bypass Meta’s heavy-handed policy that blocks news from Facebook and Instagram. We recommend NordVPN.
How does a VPN work?
A VPN works by creating a private, encrypted tunnel where your device can access the Internet while hiding your location, personal information and other data. In Canada, most users choose another country to connect to, such as the United States. By connecting NordVPN to the U.S., you will still have access to news on Meta’s platforms whether using a mobile or desktop device. If using a mobile device, please connect to the VPN first before opening the Facebook and Instagram apps.
