BBC iPlayer Keeps Detecting My VPN — Here's Why & How to Fix It
Trying to watch BBC iPlayer with a regular VPN or from an international IP address will result in one of the following messages:
- "BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it's due to rights issues."
- "Sorry, BBC iPlayer isn't available in your region."
- "This content is not available in your location."
We run through the main reasons why you're getting the error message and possible solutions. We also provide a fix for those whose VPN is not working with BBC iPlayer. Read on to learn more.
How to Quickly Fix the BBC VPN Error Message
To fix the problem, we recommend installing BritVPN for a quick and easy solution. Follow these steps:
- Sign up for BritVPN for a 3-day free trial — create your account to access our optimised UK streaming servers.
- Install it on your device — works on Android, iOS, Firestick, Chrome, and Edge. Install the app or extension on your preferred device.
- Head to BBC iPlayer, sign in, and watch as if you were in the UK.
Android
Android TV
iOS & iPadOS
Chrome
Edge
Firestick
Once installed, BritVPN will automatically reroute your connection through the UK, allowing you full access to BBC iPlayer from overseas at all times. This stops BBC iPlayer from detecting a VPN.
Get Started Free — 3-Day TrialWhy Am I Seeing the Error Message?
The BBC's internal IP lookup system will return this error if you're failing to pass one of its checks:
- You are physically outside the UK
- You are using a VPN, even if you are in the UK
- Your VPN has been detected by the BBC — this means your provider is failing to bypass their servers. In this case you need to switch provider.
How BritVPN Avoids Detection and the Error Message
A dedicated tool such as BritVPN can help you overcome the error message by hiding your IP address, enabling you to watch movies and TV shows on BBC iPlayer that are normally restricted in your region.
- Bypasses BBC blocks to access iPlayer from outside the UK
- Available on Android, iOS, Amazon Firestick, Chrome, and Edge
- Plenty of UK servers to rotate through
- Constant monitoring systems to stay ahead of BBC detection updates
- Fast speeds for HD streaming with no slowdown on non-UK traffic
- Fast customer support with live chat
Why Does the BBC Try to Detect VPNs?
The BBC hosts an extensive collection of content on iPlayer, but unfortunately not all of it can be accessed from outside the UK. The reason the broadcaster blocks international access is due to international rights issues. The BBC sells their original programmes around the world to different streaming services and TV stations — it would be a conflict if users could watch it on BBC iPlayer for free. This means the BBC is forced to engage in geo-blocking and will often detect a VPN in use when accessing iPlayer from an international IP.
It is a constant battle as the BBC tries to find new ways to block their material from those determined to watch. But you only need the right tool to avoid the BBC detecting your VPN and to bypass geographical restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best VPN for watching BBC iPlayer?
The best VPN for watching BBC iPlayer is BritVPN. This dedicated unblocker of UK content enables you to stream UK TV shows that are normally restricted in your region.
Why is my VPN not working with BBC iPlayer?
A VPN will often not work with BBC iPlayer if it has poor coverage of UK servers. An alternative guaranteed to work is BritVPN, as this service is specialised in unblocking BBC iPlayer at all times.
What error message does BBC iPlayer show when it detects a VPN?
BBC iPlayer typically shows one of these messages: "BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it's due to rights issues.", "Sorry, BBC iPlayer isn't available in your region.", or "This content is not available in your location."
What devices does BritVPN work on?
BritVPN works on Android phones and tablets, Android TV, iPhone and iPad (iOS), Amazon Firestick, Google Chrome (extension), and Microsoft Edge (extension). You can stream BBC iPlayer on whichever device you prefer.
Can I watch BBC iPlayer without a VPN?
If you're outside the UK, you need a tool like BritVPN to access BBC iPlayer. Without one you'll see the geo-block error message. BritVPN offers a 3-day free trial — install it on your preferred device and you'll be watching within minutes.
Ready to stop BBC iPlayer detecting your VPN?
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