Snapchat has been around since 2011 and has more than 293 million users. However, if you are going to move to or visit China, you probably know that Snapchat is not allowed in the country. There are a few different reasons why the Chinese government blocks it. While one of those is a protectionist move, the others involve censorship. Of course, some things are more sensitive than others. If you want to communicate via Snapchat while in the country, you are in luck. You can still use it, providing you first connect to a VPN.
Quickstart Guide for using Snapchat in China
The Chinese government banned this popular app. Follow these directions to use it.
- Sign up for ExpressVPN (includes a 30-day money back guarantee).
- Now, download and install the app on your favorite device.
- Launch the ExpressVPN app and connect to a server in the United States or the closest area.
- If you already have the app, you should be able use it now. If not, go to the the Apple Store or Google Play.
- Use the app as you wish.
Why is a VPN to use Snapchat in China important?
As we mentioned, the Chinese government likes to censor content heavily. Even if they did not, they still ban the Snapchat app. That is allegedly to protect their citizens. One of the biggest sensitive dates happens in early June because of the Tiananmen Square incident. Of course, you may have issues connecting while in the country, even if you connect to a server someplace else. The way to get around that is by choosing the right VPN server. We had success when we connected to a US server while using ExpressVPN. Of course, it can seem like a never-ending game of cat and mouse. As with anything, those that can’t adapt to new scenarios get left behind.
That’s why we suggest using ExpressVPN. Using them can help solve your issues by changing your IP address outside China. Again, not all servers work, so you’ll want to contact support if you have problems. Once you are on the right track, your IP will mask to appear outside China. That way, you can enjoy using Snapchat while there. It will also help you gain access to other channels and streaming services that are region-specific. Then, you can use Snapchat or other banned apps with a VPN.
This app has an interesting past
If you are not aware, this app has an interesting past. Whether it was December 2013 hack, the 2014 FTC complaint, the Windows phone app, lens incidents, or others, the company does not have a stellar record. In 2015, a female driver was using their “Lens” feature to record her speed and then crashed her Mercedes into a Mitsubishi Outlander. Snap seems to have at least one incident every year where something interesting happens. While that is not the best, it does keep this popular app in the spotlight. If you want to use Snapchat in China, you need to connect to a VPN.
ExpressVPN is our top pick for unblocking Snapchat
ExpressVPN is great for unblocking content. Many social media websites, video games, and streaming services are geo-restricted internationally. Schools and workplaces put up firewalls that prevent users from gaining access to them. A VPN can help this situation. It will allow you to change your IP address to another one in a region of your choosing. ExpressVPN will also encrypt your data to help you stay safe, while online. It provides unlimited bandwidth. You can use the service from home, school, or work on up to five devices at a time. Unblock content around the world with ExpressVPN.
ExpressVPN is a quality service. You will be able to unblock content no matter where you are traveling or at home. Stream your favorite content safely with a VPN. We are excited to tell you about our exclusive deal. When you subscribe for a year, you get 49% off and receive 3 extra months for free. Along with this, ExpressVPN has a 30 day money back guarantee. This will allow you to test out the service and see how a VPN can help you.