Philippine retail investors reported that the international online trading platform Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is once again accessible without a virtual private network (VPN) across major domestic internet service providers (ISPs). The development follows months of access restrictions implemented by local telecommunications companies under regulatory directives.
Users Report Restored Access
According to online discussions on the r/phinvest online forum, users on PLDT, Globe Telecom, and Converge ICT Solutions confirmed they can now access the IBKR website and mobile applications directly. Previously, users required a VPN or custom Domain Name System (DNS) configurations to bypass local connectivity blocks.
- Mobile data networks, including Smart, Globe, and Dito, also reportedly allow direct connection to the platform.
- Some users noted that full account settings, which were previously inaccessible even when parts of the application loaded, are now functioning normally without external bypass tools.
Removal of Crypto Features
Several platform users noted that IBKR appears to have restricted cryptocurrency trading services for Philippine residents. According to user reports, the platform implemented a regional IP block on its digital asset features for accounts registered in the country.
Investors speculate that the removal of these digital asset features may be related to the restoration of local access. However, neither Interactive Brokers nor Philippine regulators have issued an official statement confirming a connection.
This publication inquired to IBKR about the SEC blocking but did not receive a reply.
Regulatory Background
The access issues began in December 2025 when PLDT and Globe restricted the platform following directives from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). The restriction coincided with a broader government crackdown targeting unlicensed financial services and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). (Read More: List of Licensed Virtual Asset Service Providers in the Philippines)
On January 26, 2026, the SEC issued a formal public advisory against Interactive Brokers Group, Inc. The commission stated that the firm lacked the necessary license to solicit investments, operate as a broker-dealer, or sell registered securities within the Philippines.
As of July 2026, the SEC and NTC have not published any updates regarding the lifting of the restriction or the platform’s current regulatory compliance status in the country.
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This article is published on BitPinas: Interactive Brokers Platform Reportedly Accessible Again Without VPN in the Philippines
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