I’ve been using Norton VPN without a problem for weeks. Today it suddenly started blocking amazon.com. When I turn off VPN I can get in without a problem. I use Windows 11 and Norton 360.
Help!
Hello @JaneCarolMorris
not just you…me too
AI Overview
Yes, Amazon can and does block VPN connections. They employ various methods, including IP address blacklisting and DNS detection, to identify and block VPNs, particularly for services like Prime Video where they use geo-blocking to ensure content is only accessed in the appropriate region. This is often done to comply with licensing agreements that restrict content availability in certain areas.
Why Amazon Blocks VPNs:
- Geo-restrictions:
Amazon uses VPN detection to enforce geo-restrictions on content, ensuring users can only access content licensed for their region.
- Compliance with licensing agreements:
Amazon needs to comply with licensing agreements that specify which content can be offered in which countries, and VPNs can bypass these restrictions.
- Data privacy and security:
While not the primary reason, VPNs can be used for malicious purposes, and Amazon might be trying to protect its users from such activities.
How Amazon Detects and Blocks VPNs:
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IP Address Blacklisting: Amazon may block IP addresses associated with known VPN providers.
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DNS Detection: Amazon can detect if a device is using a VPN’s DNS servers.
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Traffic Analysis: Amazon may analyze network traffic patterns to identify VPN usage.
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Device fingerprinting: Some VPNs can be detected by analyzing unique device characteristics.
How to Bypass Amazon Blocks (if needed):
- Try different VPN servers:
Some VPNs may not be blocked, or you may be able to find a server that’s not blocked, according to NordVPN.
- Change VPN protocol:
Try different VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN UDP or TCP, according to NordVPN.
- Switch browsers or use private browsing mode:
Clearing browser cache or trying a different browser might help, as suggested on Reddit.
- Use a VPN with stronger security features:
Some VPNs offer features like obfuscated servers or encryption that can make them harder to detect, as mentioned on Amazon.com.
- Contact VPN support:
If you’re still having trouble, your VPN provider may be able to provide assistance or suggestions.
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AI Overview
Norton VPN can block access to certain websites due to various reasons, including the website’s security measures, VPN IP address restrictions, or the presence of ad trackers. It also has a “Kill Switch” feature that blocks your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, according to Norton.
Reasons for Website Blocking:
Some websites may block access from known VPN IP addresses for security, copyright, legal, or political reasons, notes Norton Community.
A website might restrict access based on the IP address it detects, and if your VPN IP is on a blocked list, you won’t be able to access the site.
Norton VPN includes a feature to block ad trackers, which can sometimes interfere with a website’s functionality. Disabling ad tracker blocking in the VPN settings might resolve the issue.
Norton VPN can also block access to resources on other subnets of your local network, says a user on Norton Community.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Disable Ad Tracker Blocking:
Norton suggests disabling ad tracker blocking in the Secure VPN settings to see if it resolves the issue.
2. Try a Different VPN Region:
If the VPN is blocking a specific region, try connecting to a different VPN region to see if the issue is resolved.
3. Update Norton VPN:
Ensure you have the latest version of the Norton VPN app installed, says Norton.
4. Check Your Network:
If the issue is with your network, try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or using mobile data, according to Norton.
5. Configure Firewall Settings:
Ensure that your firewall or router is not blocking internet traffic on ports 500 and 4500, which are used by VPNs, notes Norton.
OK, but why all of a sudden? I’ve been using VPN for months and this just happened for the first time yesterday. Also it seems to be intermittent. Today no problem. Yesterday couldn’t get in regardless of browser.
Sorry…other than the obvious…may be Norton side…may be Amazon side…may be your side. IDK
as test: VPN on
I’m challenged and then Sign In okay.
VPN off…I’m not challenged
Note: VPN server location and Amazon account country/region are the same.
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AI Overview
Amazon may block VPN IPs for several reasons, primarily to enforce content restrictions and prevent potential misuse of their services. They also use VPN blocking to gather more data on users and maintain the integrity of their systems.
Here’s a more detailed look at why:
- Content Restrictions:
Amazon, like other streaming services, has licensing agreements that dictate where content can be shown. VPNs can bypass these restrictions by making it seem like a user is in a different location, potentially violating these agreements.
- Preventing Abuse:
VPNs can be used for various purposes that Amazon might not want, such as creating multiple accounts or accessing content that is region-locked. Blocking VPNs helps deter such activities.
- Data Collection and Privacy:
Amazon, like other large companies, is known for its data collection practices. Blocking VPNs may be a way to gather more data on users’ browsing habits, as it might make it easier to track their location and other information.
- System Integrity:
Amazon may also block VPN IPs to maintain the stability and performance of their services. VPNs can sometimes cause network issues, and blocking them can help ensure a smoother experience for other users.
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AI Overview
Amazon sometimes blocks VPNs to enforce content licensing restrictions and prevent users from accessing content intended for different regions. Amazon also uses VPN detection techniques like blacklisting VPN IP addresses, deep packet inspection, and checking for DNS and IP leaks to identify and block VPN traffic.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- Licensing Agreements:
Amazon Prime Video, like other streaming services, has licensing agreements that restrict the availability of content based on geographic location.
- Geo-restrictions:
These agreements prevent users in one region from accessing content intended for another region.
- VPN Detection:
Amazon employs various techniques to detect and block VPN traffic, including:
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Blacklisting VPN IPs: Amazon keeps a list of known VPN IP addresses and blocks them.
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Deep Packet Inspection (DPI): This involves analyzing internet traffic patterns to identify VPN usage.
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DNS and IP Leaks: If a VPN is not properly configured, it may leak the user’s actual location, which Amazon can detect.
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Consequences of Using VPNs:
While using a VPN might bypass these blocks temporarily, it can increase the risk of account bans if discovered. Amazon may consider such behavior suspicious, especially if it involves multiple accounts.
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Why won’t Amazon load when you use Nord? here
VPN Blocking.How do I get Amazon’s attention to work on this issue. here
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Fix problem accessing a specific website when connected to Norton VPN here