So, you’ve fired up your VPN, ready to binge-watch your favorite Amazon Prime Video shows from anywhere in the world, only to be hit with that dreaded error message: “Your device is connected to the internet using a VPN or proxy service. Please disable it and try again.” Annoying, right?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Amazon Prime Video has some of the toughest VPN detection systems out there, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In this guide, we’ll dive into why Amazon Prime blocks VPNs, the most common error messages, and most importantly how to fix them so you can get back to streaming hassle-free.
Why Is Amazon Prime Video Blocking Your VPN?
Amazon Prime Video, like many streaming services, restricts content based on geographic locations due to licensing agreements. To enforce these geo-restrictions, Amazon actively detects and blocks VPN traffic using several methods:
- Blacklisting VPN IPs – If an IP address is linked to a VPN service, Amazon blocks it.
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) – Amazon scans internet traffic patterns to identify VPN usage.
- DNS and IP Leaks – If your VPN isn’t properly configured, Amazon may still detect your actual location.
Common Amazon Prime VPN Error Messages
If Amazon detects that you’re using a VPN, you might see one of these messages:
- “Your device is connected to the internet using a VPN or proxy service. Please disable it and try again.”
- “We noticed you are using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”
- “Your device’s internet connection is using an HTTP proxy, which prevents playing your video.”
How to Fix Amazon Prime Video Not Working with a VPN
Here’s what you can do to regain access and continue streaming your favorite content:
1. Switch to a Different VPN Server
Amazon Prime frequently updates its VPN detection system, so the server you’re using may be blocked. Try switching to another server in the same region to get a fresh IP address.
2. Use a VPN with Obfuscation Technology
Some VPNs offer “stealth” or “obfuscation” modes that disguise VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This helps bypass Amazon’s VPN blocks. PureVPN actively offers robust Obfuscation.
3. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
Stored data can reveal your real location. Clear your cache and cookies before trying again.
4. Flush Your DNS Cache
If your system is holding onto old DNS records, Amazon Prime might still detect your real location. To flush DNS:
- Windows: Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns, then hit Enter.
- Mac: Open Terminal and type sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder, then hit Enter.
5. Use a Dedicated IP Address
Some VPN providers offer dedicated IPs such as PureVPN, which are used by only one person. These are less likely to be blacklisted by Amazon Prime.
6. Update Your VPN Software
Streaming services continuously improve their detection methods, so keeping your VPN updated ensures you’re using the latest security features.
7. Check for DNS or WebRTC Leaks
Even if you’re using a VPN, leaks can expose your real location. Test for:
- DNS Leaks: Use an online DNS leak test to ensure your requests are routed through your VPN.
- WebRTC Leaks: Disable WebRTC in your browser settings to prevent accidental IP leaks.
8. Try a Different Device or Network
Sometimes, Amazon may block certain devices or internet networks. Switching to a different device or connecting through a mobile hotspot can help bypass restrictions.
9. Contact VPN Support
If nothing seems to work, reach out to your VPN provider’s support team. Some VPNs have specialized servers for Amazon Prime Video, and their team can guide you to the right one.
How to Choose the Right VPN for Amazon Prime Video
Not all VPNs can bypass Amazon’s restrictions. If you’re frequently running into issues, consider using a premium VPN such as PureVPN known for its ability to unblock streaming services. Look for features like:
- A large server network with frequent IP refreshes.
- Strong encryption and DNS leak protection.
- Obfuscated servers to disguise VPN traffic.
- Dedicated streaming servers optimized for Amazon Prime.
How to Prevent VPN Blocks in the Future
Amazon Prime will continue to upgrade its VPN detection methods, but there are ways to stay ahead:
- Use a VPN with regular IP updates – VPNs that frequently refresh their IPs are harder to detect.
- Avoid free VPNs – They have limited servers and are more easily blocked.
- Enable multi-hop connections – Some VPNs allow you to route your connection through multiple servers for added security.
- Check for VPN updates regularly – Always keep your VPN client updated to access the latest bypassing techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
Amazon Prime blocks VPNs to enforce licensing agreements that restrict certain content to specific regions. Streaming services use advanced detection methods to prevent users from bypassing these geo-restrictions.
Most free VPNs are easily detected and blocked by Amazon Prime. They also have limited server locations, slower speeds, and weaker encryption, making them unreliable for streaming.
The best VPN for Amazon Prime is PureVPN, which offers multiple server locations, obfuscation features, and a large pool of fresh IP addresses to avoid detection.
If Amazon Prime detects your real location despite using a VPN, your VPN might be leaking your DNS or WebRTC data. Try clearing your cache, switching servers, or testing for leaks using online tools.
Most premium VPNs support a wide range of devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Firestick, and Smart TVs. However, some streaming devices may require manual VPN setup or router configurations.
Tanzeel Ahmed
July 1, 2025
1 week ago
