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To use Binance in the U.S., all you need is a virtual private network (VPN). Just select a VPN, connect to a server in a location where Binance is available, and open the Binance website.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of VPNs and crypto trading, answer questions about Binance’s safety and availability, and introduce you to the best VPN services so you can start your crypto trading adventure.
What is Binance?
Why was Binance restricted in the U.S.?
Can you use a VPN to access Binance?
Best VPNs for Binance
Why you should use a VPN with Binance
FAQs
Bottom line
How to use a VPN with Binance
If you're new to using a VPN or want to learn how to use a VPN with Binance, simply follow the steps below:
- Research and select a reputable VPN service that aligns with your needs and budget. It’s often recommended to use a paid VPN service if possible since free VPNs can potentially have limitations and security risks.
- Download and install the VPN app you selected on your preferred device, whether it’s a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
- Run the VPN app and select a server location of your choice. This location should be outside the U.S., depending on the server locations your VPN provider offers.
- Check to make sure your VPN is running properly. This is to ensure your server location has changed to the one you selected.
- Now you can log in to the Binance or Binance US app or website from your device or web browser. Make sure your VPN is running and connected to your chosen server before accessing Binance.
- Once connected, you can start making transactions on Binance or Binance.US over your encrypted connection.
What is Binance?
Binance is a world-renowned blockchain and cryptocurrency exchange where you can purchase and trade digital assets, like bitcoin (BTC), ethereum (ETH), and dogecoin (DOGE), and crypto tokens related to the Metaverse, DeFi, gaming, and NFTs, among others. You can also participate in various activities like liquid staking, liquidity farming, and trading the crypto futures market.
Binance is also known for its native blockchain, Binance Smart Chain (BSC), which allows you to trade crypto assets exclusively available on BSC with Binances native BNB token. And since it's also the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world by trading volumw, it makes sense U.S. residents want to trade there.
Why was Binance restricted in the U.S.?
U.S. residents may be frustrated to learn that access to Binance.com is unavailable in the United States following a data breach and due to stringent U.S. regulations. This means U.S. users can only access a separate trading platform, Binance.US.
Binance.US doesn’t have certain crypto assets available for purchase that are on the main Binance platform. Consequently, you may want to know how to use Binance in the States. Luckily, we have an answer: You can leverage a VPN, to start using Binance in the U.S.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) filed a lawsuit against Binance in March 2023 thanks to an unclear connection between the company and Binance.US.[1] In June 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) also filed a lawsuit against Binance for allegedly operating unregistered exchanges and misrepresenting oversight on the platform, among other charges.[2]
These legal actions could lead to less liquidity for crypto assets. For Binance.US in particular, this resulted in a pause for U.S. dollar trading on the platform, which since resumed once Binance reached a deal with the SEC.[3]
Can you use a VPN to access Binance?
The short answer is yes, you can technically use a VPN to access Binance. There are no explicit restrictions against VPN usage in Binance's Terms of Service (ToS). Nevertheless, it's crucial to know the legal implications.
Binance has implemented restrictions for U.S. residents due to compliance reasons, which led to the creation of Binance.US. However, keep in mind that while Binance.US shares the Binance brand, it's managed by a different company, BAM Trading Services, allowing it to adhere to U.S. regulations.
Per Binance.US’s ToS, it states the following: "BAM Trading entered into licensing agreements with Binance Holdings Limited ("BHL"). BAM Trading and BHL share common majority ownership, but are not within the same corporate structure."
Although VPNs are legal in the U.S., they may not be in other countries or jurisdictions, so it’s important to verify the use of a VPN does not violate laws and regulations in your jurisdiction. Binance's ToS also states that users must comply with "applicable laws and regulations," which could potentially include restrictions on VPN use.
Therefore, while using a VPN to access Binance is technically possible, it can be viewed as circumventing these restrictions, which could potentially lead to the suspension or termination of your account. Plus, Binance reserves the right to "unilaterally determine whether you have violated these Terms," which means they could interpret the use of a VPN to bypass regional restrictions as a violation of their ToS.
That being said, it could be argued that non-U.S. residents temporarily in the states can use a VPN to access their Binance account without violating the ToS, as they are not technically subject to U.S. regulations.
Best VPNs for Binance
When it comes to using a VPN for secure crypto trading, consider the following options:
VPN | |||
Starting price | Starts at $3.59/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at $1.99/mo (billed every two years) | Starts at $2.03/mo (billed every two years) |
Server count | 6,800+ servers in 111 countries | 3,200+ servers in 100 countries | Unlisted in 100 countries |
Obfuscation | |||
Accepts crypto payments | |||
Learn more | Get NordVPN
Read NordVPN Review |
Get Surfshark
Read Surfshark Review |
Get CyberGhost
Read CyberGhost Review |
Why you should use a VPN with Binance
Using a VPN increases your privacy and security, which can be beneficial when accessing the Binance platform. VPNs encrypt your data and internet connection, which can help keep you anonymous online and shield your data from prying eyes. This is especially useful when making financial transactions that involve sensitive data on websites like Binance.com or Binance.US.
A VPN doesn't just give you a cloak of invisibility online by masking your IP address, it also safeguards you from common cyberthreats like man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks and digital snoopers. Regardless of the threat, a VPN is certainly an additional layer of security.
Furthermore, a VPN can be your passport to the internet, helping you bypass geo-restrictions. This is particularly handy if you're traveling or find yourself in a location with restricted access to Binance. With a VPN, you can ensure uninterrupted access to your Binance account, regardless of your geographical location.
FAQs
Can US residents make a Binance account?
Yes, U.S. residents can open a Binance account. However, it’s recommended that U.S. residents use the Binance.US platform instead to comply with U.S. regulations and sidestep potential repercussions such as account restrictions, temporary suspension, or even termination.
Is it legal to use Binance in the US with a VPN?
While VPNs are legal to use in the US, accessing Binance via a VPN as a U.S. resident (rather than Binance.US) can potentially be viewed as a violation of Binance’s ToS. Complying with Binance’s ToS is a good way to keep your account in good standing and continue your trading activities.
Per the ToS for Binance.US, certain states in the U.S., such as Hawaii, New York, Texas, and Vermont, are restricted from accessing Binance.US. As rules and regulations evolve, the current list of restricted states is subject to change at any time.
What’s the difference between Binance and Binance.US?
While Binance.US shares the Binance brand, it is managed by a different company, BAM Trading Services. Binance.US was launched with the intention of catering to U.S. customers while adhering to U.S. regulations. One significant difference between Binance.US vs. Binance is the range of available cryptocurrencies.
Binance usually offers a wider range of available cryptocurrencies for trading compared to Binance.US. This is a common reason why U.S. residents may want to circumvent restrictions to access Binance and trade cryptocurrencies unavailable on Binance.US.
Can I use Binance without verification?
Yes, Binance allows unverified users to explore the platform and claim NFTs, Fan Tokens, and Binance gift cards, but you can't trade or buy crypto. This is part of Binance's approach to welcoming new users and preventing fraud.
Binance uses a verification process called Know Your Customer (KYC), to prevent fraud, money laundering, and other illicit activities. By completing the verification process and becoming “verified,” you can increase your withdrawal limits and unlock additional features.
The verification process is usually swift, often taking a few minutes up to a couple of hours. However, in some cases, verification can take a few days or longer, especially during periods of high demand or when your identification documents need further scrutiny.
It’s important to make sure you provide accurate information the first time to avoid any delays with the KYC verification process. If you have trouble submitting ID photos or other documents, you should chat with the Binance customer support team.
When will Binance allow new users?
Binance typically allows new user registrations unless otherwise stated on their platform. To get started as a new user, you can follow Binance’s new user guide.
Bottom line
No matter where you are in the world, using a VPN can keep your data and financial information safe on Binance by enhancing privacy and security and bypassing geo-restrictions. However, U.S. residents must be mindful of potential legal and compliance implications.
Thus, we recommend U.S. residents use Binance.US instead of Binance to comply with the rules and regulations of their jurisdiction, as well as prevent potential violation of Binance’s (ToS), which may possibly result in your account being restricted, suspended, or terminated.
However, for non-U.S. residents temporarily visiting states like Texas or New York, where Binance.US isn't fully available yet, using a VPN could be a viable option. So if you want to get started using a VPN to securely access Binance or Binance.US and get started with trading cryptocurrencies, consider downloading one of our recommended best VPNs for crypto trading.
[2] SEC Files 13 Charges Against Binance Entities and Founder Changpeng Zhao
[3] Binance.US Provides Update on USD Withdrawals and Trading Offerings