Some citizens have used the citizen reporting function of the app through a VPN.

Explain why the use of a VPN would reduce the effectiveness of the citizen reporting app.

Award [6 max].
Award [1] for each point that explains why the use of VPN reduces the effectiveness of the app up to [6 max].

A VPN hides the true IP address;
Instead, it provides the IP address of the VPN’s server;
A VPN adds an additional layer of complexity has been added;
Which may increase the likelihood of the connection dropping;
A VPN encrypts/tunnels the data which is transmitted;
Which has a potential overhead (more computational power/increases the size of data packets) and this may reduce emergency responses times;
A VPNs may log traffic that passes through;
This may present a potential security concern if sensitive information is reported;
A VPN may employ a filtering policy/blocks ports;
So certain parts of the app may not work (e.g. VOIP protocols may not work);
If GPS/location service is deactivated, then the system is reliant upon IP Address;
Location information can be obtained from the GPS/GPS is sent in data packets;
However, it may not be as easily verifiable by comparing with a known IP location;
Not having the true IP address would mean that the EMIS server would not have any indication of the location of the source of the report;
VPN usage may give users a feeling of anonymity which may encourage misuse;
Which may divert resources to the hoaxes instead of authentic reports;