BitMEX is inaccessible in various countries around the world, including the United States. This is because BitMEX isn’t authorized by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). In fact, a lack of regulation has been a recurring theme for BitMEX. If you try to access BitMEX from a location such as the US or Canada, you’ll see the following error message:
“Based on your location being a current Restricted Jurisdiction, you are prohibited from accessing or using the BitMEX trading platform.”
A VPN is the easiest way to bypass these restrictions while on vacation abroad, by tricking BitMEX into thinking that you’re located somewhere else in the world. It works by connecting the user to a server found in a different country, assigning them a new IP address in the process.
Important: Some countries have completely banned cryptocurrencies and online exchanges while others don’t have specific legislation. We do not encourage or condone illegal activities or the use of a VPN to spoof geographic locations to break local laws. It’s important to do your research and investigate the online crypto laws within your country and state before using a VPN to access exchanges or websites. If you are unsure of the laws in the state or country you are in we suggest you don’t take the risk of online trading.
If you just want the important information, here’s a brief summary of the best VPNs for BitMEX:
- NordVPN: The best VPN for BitMEX. Exceptional speeds, works with BitMEX, heaps of servers, additional security features, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark: Top budget VPN for BitMEX. Great value for money, strong performance thanks to a capable network and a clear focus on security. Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- ExpressVPN: Arguably the best provider overall for unblocking streaming services and platforms like BitMEX from anywhere in the world. High speeds, keeps no logs.
- CyberGhost: Simple apps, thousands of servers, top-notch speeds, great for streaming and accessing BitMEX.
- IPVanish: Affordable VPN that offers fast connection speeds, solid security, and user privacy. A solid choice for crypto trading.
- PrivateVPN: Impressive provider that benefits from strong privacy and performance.
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The best VPNs for BitMEX
There are so many VPNs to choose from, making it tough to make a decision. We’ve picked out the best VPNs for BitMEX according to the following criteria:
- The ability to unblock and access BitMEX
- Strong security and encryption across all devices
- High speeds and reliable connections
- Secures your web traffic, and keeps no logs of user data
- Value for money
Here’s our list of the best VPNs for BitMEX:
1. NordVPN
Nov 2024 works with bitmexTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top pick for BitMEX. A provider that ticks all of the boxes and more, it won’t let you down when it comes to privacy or performance. Its custom NordLynx protocol is designed to improve connection speeds without impacting security. There are over 5,400 servers in 60 countries to choose from.
It works in China, and offers extras including double VPN, P2P support, and dedicated IP addresses. NordVPN has been audited multiple times, and there are no DNS, WebRTC, or IP traffic leaks to worry about. Threat Protection works to block adverts, trackers, and malware, and it’ll even unblock a variety of streaming sites, including Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Now.
You’ll find user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, and Android. NordVPN also offers encrypted proxy extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers. Customer support is responsive, and is available 24/7.
Pros:
- Unblocks BitMEX from multiple regions
- Superb speeds
- Support is available 24/7
- Multiple independent audits
- Large server network
- Lots of additional security and privacy features
Cons:
- Some slowdown while switching servers
Our score:
BEST VPN SERVICE FOR BitMEX:NordVPN comes with lots of features, and will be able to handle BitMEX, and much more. Offers the NordLynx protocol, superb speeds, and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, just in case.
Read our review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
works with bitmexTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark has a massive network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. It’s an affordable solution, especially if you’re looking at longer subscriptions. It’s perfect for services like BitMEX as it’s one of the faster VPNs on the market, benefiting from the use of WireGuard, and it offers unlimited device connections with a single account.
Based in the Netherlands, it’s great for unblocking streaming content, accessing platforms like Sky Go, Netflix US and UK, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer without breaking a sweat. It even works in China, bypassing the Great Firewall. Support is available 24/7.
Along with the basics like a kill switch for all apps, Surfshark has multi-hop servers. You can get past restrictions with NoBorders mode, and it offers IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.
Pros:
- Unlimited devices
- Speedy connections
- 24/7 live chat
- Great for streaming and P2P
- Affordable deals
Cons:
- Smaller network, with a few slower servers
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN FOR BitMEX:Surfshark won’t let you down, offers great value for money, strong streaming support, lots of servers for BitMEX, speedy connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark here.
3. ExpressVPN
works with bitmexTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is one of the best-known providers on the market, and for good reason. Based in the British Virgin Islands, the proprietary Lightway protocol is faster than much of the competition, and it operates servers in a network that encompasses 94 countries. Ideal for unblocking sites and services, this includes Netflix, ITV Hub, Stan, Crave, and Hulu, alongside BitMEX.
Plans are slightly more expensive than the competition, but it’s hard to think of many flaws. It comes with advanced security features, including split tunneling and Network Protection. ExpressVPN lets you pay with Bitcoin.
There are user-friendly apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. The Smart Location feature ranks VPN servers by download speed, latency, and distance.
Pros:
- Exceptional speeds and performance ensure no lag
- Will unblock numerous sites and services
- Strong security and privacy features
- Industry-leading customer support
Cons:
- Pricier than much of the competition
Our score:
TOP SPEEDS AND UNBLOCKING:ExpressVPN does cost more than the average provider, but is worth it if you need a premium service for BitMEX. Expert unblocking, proprietary Lightway protocol, includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our in-depth review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
works with bitmexTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost has a massive collection of servers (7000+) that can be used to bypass restrictions and access services like BitMEX from a range of blocked locations worldwide. It’s one of the fastest providers on the market, using the WireGuard protocol to ensure no impact on security in the process.
The provider is based in Romania, benefiting from privacy-friendly local data retention laws. CyberGhost doesn’t store any traffic data or connection logs that can be tied to an individual user, and it scores highly in terms of security. Its NoSpy servers are notable, offering extra-private servers housed in a CyberGhost-owned data center.
Streaming support ensures access for platforms like US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and Hulu. You’ll be able to connect seven devices with a single account, and there are apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux, and Android.
Pros:
- Servers optimized for streaming and unblocking
- Great connection speeds
- Strong security
- 24/7 live chat
Cons:
- Won’t work in China
- Parent company doesn’t have the greatest reputation
Our score:
TOP BEGINNER VPN:CyberGhost is easy to use, has great connection speeds, and will unblock BitMEX easily. Comes with an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our review of CyberGhost.
5. IPVanish
works with bitmexTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is another viable option for BitMEX. You’ll find 2,000 servers in 75 worldwide locations which are owned and operated by the provider. (Most VPNs rent servers, so this is a major upgrade in terms of privacy.) In terms of drawbacks, it’s not the best option for streaming, while the VPN is headquartered in the United States.
Speed is a strong point for IPVanish, and it can be used with unlimited simultaneous devices. It offers split tunneling, and it works out to be one of the cheaper options if you’re looking at longer subscriptions. We recommend checking it out for torrenting, as well as for Kodi devices.
There are apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android, alongside support for routers and Linux.
Pros:
- Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Fast speeds
- No logs
- Strong encryption
Cons:
- Blocked in China and UAE
- Based in the USA
Our score:
UNLIMITED DEVICES FOR BitMEX:IPVanish is ideal if you’re looking for a provider to access BitMEX with multiple devices. Works with Netflix, offers WireGuard, affordable subscriptions, yearly deal comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our review of IPVanish to find out more.
6. PrivateVPN
works with bitmexTested Nov 2024
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is a Swedish provider that has 200+ server locations in 63 countries. It might be on the smaller side, but PrivateVPN owns and hosts its entire network. Along with BitMEX, you’ll be able to securely access US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and more. Despite having fewer servers, it’s still one of the quicker providers on the market.
Anonymous payments are available via Bitcoin, and it works with up to 10 simultaneous devices. It has a kill switch and DNS leak protection, and there are apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. A seven-day free trial is available for all devices, and there’s 24/7 customer support if you have any questions.
Pros:
- Fast speeds
- Strong security features
- 7-day free trial
Cons:
- Could do with a few more advanced features
- Fewer servers overall
- Live chat could be improved
Our score:
SPEEDY BitMEX VPN:PrivateVPN is a smaller service, but it fits a lot into a tiny package. Fast speeds, strong encryption, simple apps, comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our review of PrivateVPN.
How to set-up a VPN for BitMEX
It’s quick and easy to access BitMEX with a VPN, but only some providers will be able to bypass geo-blocks of this type consistently. We’ve put together a quick step-by-step guide if you’ve never used a VPN before.
Here’s how to set up a VPN for BitMEX:
- Sign up with one of the VPN services recommended. (We’d pick NordVPN for BitMEX.)
- Download the VPN app for your device, either directly from the website or the relevant App Store.
- Install the VPN, and open the app.
- Enter your login information, and select a server in a location where BitMEX works such as the UK or France.
- You’ll now be assigned with a relevant IP address that matches the server location selected (check here).
- Clear your cookies and your browser cache. These can store location information from previous sessions.
- Open the BitMEX site, and login or sign up.
- If you’re still having issues, get in contact with the VPN support team.
Methodology: How we found the best VPNs for BitMEX
There are so many VPNs on the market competing for your attention at any given time, but which is best for trading? We evaluate dozens of VPNs based on real-world experience, expert analysis, and a battery of tests. Here’s the key criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for BitMEX.
- Server choice: A strong selection of servers will ensure that you’ll be able to access BitMEX from a nearby region.
- Unblocking BitMEX: How adept is the VPN at unblocking sites and services worldwide? As well as BitMEX, we looked at everything from accessing streaming services to restricted countries like China. This includes gaming, and accessing content when you’re abroad.
- Privacy: The VPN should come with a no-logs policy, and anonymous payment methods like Bitcoin. We’ve checked out more than 140 VPN logging policies altogether.
- Speeds and reliability: We conducted a range of speed tests to find out which VPN is fastest overall. This data is factored into our list.
- Ease of use: You’ll be able to access BitMEX quickly with the VPNs above. We prioritize providers with 24/7 live chat, no connection limits, and any other features which make the VPN more welcoming for beginners.
- Security: How does the VPN perform in terms of encryption and security? Does it offer features such as a no-logs policy, a kill switch, and leak protection? We also look at advanced features, such as speciality servers.
- Value for money: The VPN should offer good value for money. Will the user be able to pay with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin? It must have a watertight money-back guarantee.
To find out more, read our full explanation of how we test VPNs.
Best VPNs for BitMEX FAQ
Can I use a free VPN for BitMEX?
Yes, but we’d strongly advise against trusting a free VPN to look after sensitive data. Most free providers are concentrated in the United States, which isn’t going to work with BitMEX for obvious reasons.
If you do manage to find a compatible VPN, it’s going to be far slower than a premium provider, and there are likely to be various limitations in terms of servers and bandwidth.
Many free services are plagued with adverts, and some will even sell user data. It’s not unheard of for free VPNs to leak important information, such was the case for UFO VPN back in 2020.
Is it legal to use a VPN with BitMEX?
It’s legal to use a VPN with BitMEX, as long as you’re in a country in which the use of VPNs isn’t restricted. For example, VPNs are blocked in some regions, including China and the UAE.
Where is BitMEX banned or restricted?
As well as Russia and Hong Kong, BitMEX doesn’t provide services to;
“US Persons (including, but not limited to, US Citizens and US Residents) nor to natural or legal persons located in, established in, or a citizen of Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea, Crimea and Sevastopol, Donetsk People’s Republic, Luhansk People’s Republic of Ukraine, Kherson Oblast and Zaporizhzhia Oblast. This means that if you hold a passport from, or are currently located in one of the previously mentioned jurisdictions, you are prohibited from opening an Account or otherwise using the BitMEX platform.”
The same goes for; “natural or legal persons located in or established in Seychelles, Bermuda, Japan, Ontario Canada and Quebec Canada”.
Why is BitMEX banned in the US?
BitMEX is banned in the US and elsewhere due to regulations. It’s also worth mentioning that the owners have been fined for failing to ‘implement and enforce effective controls to prevent or detect BitMEX’s unlawful conduct.’
The platform began blocking North American users in 2018. The CFTC later found that BitMEX and its founders were running the exchange outside of the US and “unlawfully accepting orders and funds from U.S. customers to trade cryptocurrencies, including derivatives on bitcoin, ether, and litecoin.”
Should you use a VPN when trading crypto?
It’s never going to hurt if you add an extra layer of privacy to your crypto accounts. Considering the money at stake, it makes sense to take steps to keep your information safe from hackers, including the use of a VPN. It’ll improve anonymity, making it more difficult to identify the user. We recommend taking a look at the best VPNs for crypto trading.
Will BitMEX suspend my account for using a VPN?
Possibly, as it may go against the terms of service if you’re not supposed to be using the platform in the first place. If your account is suspended, there is a chance that you won’t be able to withdraw funds. BitMEX could potentially close your account and liquidate all open positions.