VPNs to Avoid in China 2026 Block List
The Great Firewall has evolved. Traditional "top-tier" VPNs no longer work. Do not waste your money on these services.
| VPN Service | Status | Use Instead |
|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | BLOCKED | Astrill / LetsVPN |
| Surfshark | BLOCKED | LetsVPN |
| ExpressVPN | PATCHY | Astrill |
| ProtonVPN | BLOCKED | LetsVPN |
| PIA (Private Internet Access) | BLOCKED | Astrill |
| CyberGhost | BLOCKED | LetsVPN |
WHY they fail: The Entropy Analysis
The Great Firewall (GFW) uses machine learning to detect "High Entropy" traffic. NordVPN and Surfshark utilize standard WireGuard signatures that are identified by the GFW's Entropy Analysis within milliseconds, triggering an immediate TCP Reset (RST) packet.
The Detection Trap
- NordVPN/Surfshark: Send standardized encrypted packets. The GFW sees this "random noise" and flags it immediately.
- Astrill: Uses StealthVPN to mimic the entropy of a standard TLS handshake (like visiting Microsoft.com).
Why are these "Top Rated" VPNs blocked?
Most review sites rank VPNs based on commission, not performance. NordVPN and Surfshark are excellent for privacy in the US, but they lack the Stealth and Proprietary protocols required to bypass China's Deep Packet Inspection.
View the 3 VPNs That Actually Work →