Surfshark
Giving Tuesday is a global movement that inspires everyday acts of generosity and helps build a kinder, more connected world. It’s also a meaningful moment for companies to pause and reflect on the ways we’ve given back. Today, we’ll take a look at some of Surfshark’s key CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives, highlighting the projects and partnerships that made a real impact in 2025, and reaffirming our commitment to driving positive change.
Advancing cybersecurity awareness
Advocating for strong encryption on Global Encryption Day
Ahead of Global Encryption Day, we emphasized our position that strong encryption is fundamental to online privacy. Alongside the VPN Trust Initiative, we called on policymakers to defend encryption, not weaken it. We also released new research comparing the security and privacy of popular messaging apps, highlighting how essential encryption is for keeping users safe.
Sharing cybersecurity knowledge at the Media Innovation Festival
We joined journalists and media professionals at the International Press Institute’s Media Innovation Festival, contributing to conversations about the future of journalism, digital privacy, and online security. Our Security Governance and Compliance Manager, Miguel Fornés Belcasem, led an interactive workshop that pulled back the curtain on how attackers exploit both human behavior and technology. The session offered practical insights and reinforced the critical importance of strong digital hygiene in today’s media landscape.
Protecting digital rights
Supporting digital freedom at RightsCon
We were thrilled to take part in RightsCon 2025 in Taipei — the world’s leading conference on digital human rights. Throughout the week, our booth was filled with conversations about online privacy, cybersecurity, and how VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) support digital freedom. Our team joined a panel on election disruption and internet censorship, highlighting the role of privacy tools in protecting access to information.
Shielding journalists with Emergency VPN
Our Emergency VPN program offers free, secure VPN access to journalists, activists, and NGO workers in high-risk or heavily censored regions. It helps them protect sensitive communications, access information safely, and bypass government censorship while doing critical human rights work. This year, we distributed nearly 3,000 Emergency VPN accounts, ensuring those on the front lines of digital freedom can stay connected without fear of surveillance or interference.
Supporting a greener future
Showcasing our progress with Impact Report 2024
We published our second Impact Report this year, showcasing the progress we’ve made in sustainability, digital rights advocacy, and community-focused initiatives. The report highlights the steps we’re taking toward a safer, more sustainable digital future and reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability.
Doubling donations during the upcoming Big Give Challenge
Our work continues through the end of the year, as we proudly join the Shark Trust via the Big Give Christmas Challenge. It’s an initiative that doubles all donations to the Indian Ocean Sharks Appeal between December 2 and 9. With three-quarters of oceanic sharks and rays now threatened with extinction, this campaign plays a vital role in advancing science-based protections, strengthening conservation enforcement, and giving these vulnerable species a fighting chance.
Continuing our commitment to giving back
For Surfshark, pursuing meaningful initiatives isn’t just a one-time project — it’s our way forward. In 2026, we’ll continue advocating for stronger cybersecurity, standing up for digital rights, and expanding our sustainability efforts. From empowering people to stay safer online to defending a free and open internet to reducing our environmental footprint, we remain dedicated to making a positive impact both online and offline.
