We are excited to announce DRAPAC VPN Bot, which offers a simple and secure chat interface to get VPN access through Telegram and WhatsApp.
This tool is part of the DRAPAC VPN Project, a joint initiative between EngageMedia, Reporters Without Borders (RSF), eQualitie, Digital Defenders Partnership (DDP) and SAFEnet. It provides free VPN support to human rights defenders in the Asia-Pacific region, helping them bypass internet censorship and resist digital surveillance.
With the DRAPAC VPN Bot, users can now request Outline VPN access keys directly through two popular instant messaging apps.
Why chat bots for Outline VPN?
In regions where digital rights are under threat, access to secure communication channels is often compromised precisely when needed most. The conventional methods of accessing VPN can be cumbersome, requiring some technical knowledge and financial resources that may be inaccessible during critical moments.
Instant messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp remain widely accessible even during critical times, providing a vital lifeline when other channels are blocked. These apps are particularly useful for human rights defenders who are working in the field or are constantly on the move.
By integrating Outline VPN access directly into everyday messaging platforms, DRAPAC VPN Project enables more human rights defenders to quickly and easily request and access VPN support through familiar interfaces. This significantly lowers technical barriers and increases adoption rates among those most at risk.
Getting started on Telegram and WhatsApp
To get started, you can initiate a chat with @drapacvpn_bot on Telegram or send a message to +61342365876 on WhatsApp. DRAPAC VPN Bot will guide you step by step to request and access VPN support. Users need to complete a simple VPN needs assessment with one of the DRAPAC VPN partners and, once approved, can obtain an Outline VPN access key directly on Telegram or WhatsApp. For more information, visit drap.ac/vpn/bot.
The DRAPAC VPN Bot is available in Bengali (বাংলা), English, Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia), Bahasa Melayu (Malay) and Burmese (မြန်မာဘာသာ) on Telegram. On WhatsApp, the chat bot is only available in English. To contribute translations, go to gitlab.com/drapac.net/vpn.
For further assistance, email [email protected] (public key).
