How to Use Grindr in Indonesia (Working in 2024)
Grindr is a convenient way to stay connected with the LGBTQ community — unfortunately, this dating app is not available in Indonesia. The government blocks websites and apps that they believe could affect public morality, including those related to LGBTQ+ lifestyles. So, using Grindr while traveling can become challenging.
Hypothetically, VPNs can assign an IP address in a different location, allowing Grindr to work in Indonesia. It replaces an Indonesian IP address with one from a location where Grindr isn’t blocked.
My favorite VPN for using Grindr safely and privately is ExpressVPN. Its no-logs policy, vast server network, and fast speeds make it a must-have tool for Grindr. You can even try ExpressVPN risk-free for 30 days because it‘s backed by a trustworthy money-back guarantee. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Quick Guide: How to Use Grindr in Indonesia in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN for its fast server network and robust security features that keep you protected while using Grindr. Plus, it’s backed by a reliable 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test it risk-free.
- Connect to a server. Choose a location near Indonesia and where Grindr works without issues (like Malaysia or Singapore) for smooth browsing.
- Start using the app. Open your Grindr app and connect with people near you.
Why You Need a VPN to Use Grindr in Indonesia
Indonesia is one of the few countries that ban Grindr due to the country's conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues. This means that you can’t use the app while in Indonesia. If you try to sign up, you will see a registration error message.
In theory, there is a way to securely use Grindr while on vacation in Indonesia. A VPN is a simple software that replaces an Indonesian IP address with one from another country. Plus, the increased encryption prevents malicious parties from seeing your Grindr activity or getting hold of sensitive information.
Dating apps, including Grindr, are common targets for hackers. These criminals may track users and then blackmail them or commit other crimes, even in places where the app is not banned. Therefore, I always recommend using a VPN when using dating apps, no matter where you are.
Best VPNs for Using Grindr in Indonesia in 2024
1. ExpressVPN — The Most Reliable VPN With Obfuscation for Using Grindr in Indonesia
Tested November 2024 Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Best Feature | Obfuscation for dependable connections to Grindr in Indonesia |
Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries give you plenty of fast, stable connections |
Security | Military-grade encryption and Network Lock (kill switch) to protect your sensitive information |
Works With | Grindr, Tinder, Bumble, Blued, Wapa, Badoo, Growlr, Boo, BoyAhoy, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more |
ExpressVPN offers automatic obfuscation across its network which ensures reliable connections for Grindr. This feature bolsters privacy, making it easier to overcome VPN-blocking technology. Plus, it has its own Lightway protocol that supports obfuscation while maintaining top speeds. Our UK-based speed tester used servers in Malaysia, Singapore, and the UK, and speeds never dropped more than 6%.
I also like that ExpressVPN’s apps are really easy to use, even for VPN beginners. It offers apps for all major operating systems (including iOS and Android). During my tests, it took me less than 5 minutes to install it. There is also a Shortcuts feature that lets you launch your go-to apps directly from the VPN interface after you connect, so I set up a shortcut for Grindr.
Your Grindr activities are kept private with ExpressVPN’s commitment to privacy protection. It uses RAM-only servers (TrustedServer Technology) that wipe your data upon each reboot. Plus, it adheres to an audited strict no-logs policy and is based in the British Virgin Islands, where there are no data-retention laws.
A slight issue is that ExpressVPN is a bit expensive, starting at $4.99/month. However, you can save money with its regular deals and discounts. Plus, all plans are backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try its features without any risk. I tested this guarantee and got my money back in 3 days.
Useful Features
- Threat Manager. This helps prevent malicious domains from loading while blocking trackers and ads. That way, you can browse online for the best date spot in Bali without annoyances or worries.
- Perfect forward secrecy. ExpressVPN generates a new encryption key every time you connect. This reduces the amount of data any third-party snoops could access if they compromise a key, reassuring that your privacy is protected in Indonesia.
- Split Tunneling. This feature allows you to choose which apps will use the VPN and which won’t. For instance, it can route the Grindr app through the VPN while maintaining unencrypted access to local Indonesian news.
- 24/7 live chat. ExpressVPN provides round-the-clock support to solve any issues regarding its use with Grindr in Indonesia.
- One of the fastest VPNs
- Works with top streaming sites
- A proven no-logs policy
- Limited customization
- Smart Location isn't always the fastest
2. CyberGhost — Robust Privacy Features to Securely Browse Grindr in Indonesia
Best Feature | Strong privacy and security protection hide your Grindr activity from prying eyes |
Server Network | 11,690 global servers in 100 countries for fast and reliable connections to Grindr in Indonesia |
Security | 256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS/IP leak protection to shield your data |
Can Access | Grindr, Tinder, Bumble, Blued, Wapa, Badoo, Growlr, Boo, BoyAhoy, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more |
CyberGhost’s robust security and privacy features let you use Grindr safely. Identity Guard scans the internet to ensure your email address hasn’t been involved in a data breach. You can also check that your password hasn’t been leaked, too, by utilizing its Password Checker. That way, you can rest assured that your Grindr account credentials are secure.
It also offers privacy-enhanced NoSpy servers. These servers are based in privacy-haven Romania and are 100% run and maintained by the CyberGhost staff — no third party can access the physical servers. This means there is little risk of an unknown agency or individual taking malicious control of the server and possibly leaking your Grindr activity.
Although not as fast as ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s connection speeds are consistently good. I tested servers near my location in Kenya and only lost 8% of my speeds. Therefore, I recommend connecting to servers near Indonesia, like the Philippines and Malaysia, for faster connections.
The downsides? The monthly plan is expensive and has a short money-back guarantee. However, choosing a long-term subscription brings the price down to $2.03/month and gives you an extended 45-day refund period. This way, you can test out CyberGhost with Grindr without risking your money.
Useful Features
- Smart rules. This is a set of customization rules you can use to enhance your Grindr connections. For instance, I set the VPN to automatically connect to a nearby server whenever I open Grindr, saving me time. It also means you won’t have to remember to manually connect the VPN each time — your data is automatically protected.
- WiFi protection. CyberGhost encrypts your internet traffic when connected to WiFi networks, ensuring that your data remains secure and private while using Indonesian public WiFi networks.
- WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. These protocols ensure your Grindr experience in Indonesia is always fast and secure. WireGuard is all about speed and simplicity, while OpenVPN focuses on reliability and security.
- Secure access to streaming
- Military-level security
- Designed for ease of use
- Slower long-distance servers
- Doesn't work in China
3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Vast Network Provides Tons of Reliable Servers for Grindr
Best Feature | Huge network gives you plenty of servers to choose from to secure your Grindr activity |
Server Network | 29,650 servers in 91 countries to safely use Grindr without hassle |
Security | MACE blocks trackers, malware, and ads, keeping your Grindr activity secure and private |
Can Access | Grindr, Tinder, Bumble, Blued, Wapa, Badoo, Growlr, Boo, BoyAhoy, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and more |
PIA’s vast server network ensures you’ll always have plenty of reliable connections to use Grindr. With such a large number of servers, the chances of server overcrowding (which can cause slowdowns and connectivity issues) are very low. Plus, if you find a server that isn’t working well, you’ll always have many alternatives to choose from.
You can tweak PIA’s security settings to optimize your Grindr connections. With OpenVPN enabled, you have the option to select your encryption level (128-bit or 256-bit). The lower encryption gives you faster speeds, or you can opt for extra security if that’s your primary concern. During my PIA tests, I found AES 128-bit to be faster, making it more efficient for video chatting with Grindr matches.
I initially had reservations about PIA due to its US headquarters. The US is a member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, its no-logs policy has been independently verified and court-proven, confirming that it does not store any user data. This makes me confident that PIA has no user information to surrender, even if legally requested.
With its long-term plan, you can get PIA for only $2.03/month. I recommend the longest subscription for the best value for your money. Thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can even test PIA risk-free and ask for a full refund if it’s not for you.
Useful Features
- Multi-hop. This sends your data through a SOCKS5 or Shadowsocks proxy in addition to the VPN server. It boosts your security while using Grindr by making it harder to trace your original IP address. It’s also handy for overcoming tough firewalls, like those on shared or public WiFi networks.
- Unlimited device connections. You can protect all your mobile devices on a single account, so you never have to log out of any of your devices when you’re using Grindr.
- Many servers to choose from
- Customizable security settings
- Solid choice for torrenting
- Hit-or-miss customer support
- Tricky to navigate
Tips on How to Choose the Best VPNs for Grindr
My team and I tested 30+ VPNs and listed the best ones for using Grindr. To help you make your own comparisons, here are the criteria I used:
- Robust security and privacy features. I only listed the VPNs with strong encryption and a kill switch to ensure maximum protection for your data while using Grindr. Other useful features are robust IP/DNS/WebRTC leak protection and an audited no-logs policy.
- Vast server network. I only settled on VPNs with plenty of servers in countries near Indonesia and where Grindr isn’t blocked. This will ensure lots of working alternatives if a certain server is experiencing issues.
- Fast speeds. Internet connection speeds in Indonesia may vary. So, I only picked VPNs that offer excellent speeds for sending audio and video messages on Grindr without any interruptions.
- Multi-device compatibility. All the VPNs I picked offer intuitive mobile apps for Android and iOS devices. That way, you can easily use Grindr without having to manually configure anything.
- Reliable customer support. Prompt and effective customer support is essential, particularly when you face problems while in the middle of chatting with your date. I only selected VPNs that offer dependable, 24/7 customer support.
- Trustworthy money-back guarantee. I only picked VPNs with a risk-free money-back guarantee that makes it possible to try them with Grindr in Bali before committing to a full subscription.
In Which Countries Is the Grindr App Available?
Grindr is available in most countries around the world except a few. Some countries block Grindr and other similar apps due to laws against LGBTQ+ relationships and activities. These laws reflect the local cultural or religious beliefs and often extend to censoring online content related to LGBTQ+ topics.
Aside from Indonesia, these are some of the other countries where the platform is banned:
United Arab Emirates (UAE) | Lebanon |
Turkey | Qatar |
Crimea | Pakistan |
North Korea | Jordan |
Sudan | Syria |
Saudi Arabia | North Korea |
China | Cuba |
FAQs on Using Grindr in Indonesia With a VPN
Why is Grindr banned in Indonesia?
The Indonesian government has banned LGBTQ+ platforms like Grindr, citing cultural and religious reasons. This is true for some other countries as well.
This action aligns with Indonesia's generally conservative views on LGBTQ+ issues. The government argues that these apps could promote illegal activities such as prostitution and pornography, conflicting with the country's cultural and religious values.
What’s the best VPN for Grindr in Indonesia?
The list above includes the best VPNs for using Grindr in Indonesia. They all have strong security and privacy features and lots of servers, especially near Indonesia. Because Indonesia has strict rules on online content and closely monitors internet use, privacy and security are crucial when using apps like Grindr.
A VPN like ExpressVPN is a great choice because it uses strong encryption and an audited no-logs policy. It also uses obfuscation technology across its network and provides excellent speeds on its servers in nearby locations like Malaysia and Singapore. That ensures reliable, speedy connections from Indonesia.
Can I use Grindr safely in Indonesia?
Yes, it’s theoretically possible to use Grindr securely while traveling in Indonesia. A quality VPN masks your location and comes with robust security features to protect your online data. It offers servers near Indonesia, where Grindr isn’t blocked.
Be aware that using a VPN does not guarantee 100% protection against the possible consequences of using Grindr in Indonesia. Please ensure that you have fully assessed the risks and you are up to date on the local laws before attempting to use the app in the country.
Does Grindr work in Bali?
No, Grindr does not work in Bali, as it is blocked throughout Indonesia. The Indonesian government has imposed strict regulations on content deemed to be related to LGBTQ+ issues — so Grindr and similar apps are blocked within the country. Using a VPN is the best way to access Grindr securely.
Can I use a free VPN for Grindr?
Possibly, but using a free Grindr VPN can be unsafe. Most free VPNs skimp on privacy and security features, so there is no guarantee that you will be safe while using Grindr. For a secure online dating experience, opt for a reliable premium VPN. Premium VPNs provide fast download speeds, robust security features, and a no-logs policy.
Some free VPN providers may even log your online activity and sell it to third parties, exposing you to privacy risks. While paid VPNs have an up-front cost, they provide superior security features that are worth the investment.
Access Grindr Safely in Minutes
It’s frustrating to lose access to your Grindr account while traveling in Indonesia. In theory, a VPN with advanced security features and a reliable server network can access Grindr in Indonesia. However, it’s not recommended, as the app is banned throughout the country. So make sure you read up on Indonesian law and use a VPN responsibly.
That said, ExpressVPN is the best VPN I’ve tested for using Grindr privately. It offers fast servers near Indonesia and robust security and privacy features to ensure all user data is kept private. Plus, its 30-day money-back guarantee means you can try out ExpressVPN’s features risk-free to ensure that it meets your needs.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs for using Grindr in Indonesia…
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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