A man in Hubei province, China, has been fined after authorities found that he used a VPN to access international social media platforms.

According to local police, the individual, identified by the surname Xu, used a mobile app to bypass China’s internet restrictions on March 8, 2026. Through this method, he was able to access platforms such as TikTok and X without official authorization.

Following an investigation that included statements from Xu and data obtained from his device, authorities concluded that his actions violated regulations on unauthorized cross-border internet access.

On March 11, he received a formal warning and was fined 200 yuan (approximately $28). He has also been instructed to stop using the VPN and settle the fine within 15 days.

Officials added that he has the right to appeal the decision through an administrative review within 60 days or pursue legal action within six months