IPVanish Forms Strategic Partnership with the United Rugby Championship to Enhance Digital Security LONDON—(BUSINESS WIRE)—IPVanish, a leading cybersecurity provider, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the United Rugby Championship (URC). This collaboration, dubbed the "First Line of Defence" campaign, aims to raise awareness about digital safety among the sport’s global fanbase and teams. By integrating cybersecurity into the realm of professional rugby, the partnership will not only promote digital protection but also enhance how key decisions are communicated to both live and remote spectators. As part of this agreement, IPVanish will support the league's Television Match Officials (TMO), a crucial element in modern rugby that ensures transparency and fairness in major game decisions. The deal includes prominent branding during URC broadcasts and events, co-created digital content, and educational initiatives designed to inform fans and teams about the importance of online security. Subbu Sthanu, General Manager of IPVanish, emphasized the relevance of this partnership: “In today’s digital age, safeguarding your online presence is as critical as protecting your territory on the pitch. We are excited to connect with a passionate, tech-savvy audience and underscore the importance of security and privacy in daily life.” Martin Anayi, CEO of the United Rugby Championship, highlighted the mutual benefits: “IPVanish shares our global vision and commitment to excellence. Through this partnership, we aim to showcase how innovation can open up new avenues for advancing the sport. The TMO system has become a vital component of rugby, enhancing the fan experience and ensuring precise and fair decision-making. Collaborating with tech-focused partners like IPVanish will help us improve our league’s operations and support our clubs’ sporting and business objectives.” The URC, which features teams from Ireland, Italy, Scotland, South Africa, and Wales, mirrors IPVanish’s dedication to excellence and a global perspective. The league’s focus on fostering competition, building community, and maintaining integrity aligns seamlessly with IPVanish’s mission to deliver trusted and reliable cybersecurity solutions worldwide. This partnership launches just ahead of the URC 25/26 season, and more details on exclusive content, fan engagement activities, and special offers will be revealed soon. About IPVanish IPVanish, a subsidiary of Ziff Davis, is an award-winning cybersecurity and Virtual Private Network (VPN) provider committed to internet safety, digital privacy, and online freedom. Known for its user-friendly tools and cutting-edge technology, IPVanish empowers individuals to control their online experiences and browse with confidence. For more information, visit www.ipvanish.com. About the United Rugby Championship The United Rugby Championship (URC) is a premier club rugby tournament spanning five countries and featuring more than 350 international players from some of the world’s most renowned teams. Sixteen teams from Ireland, Italy, Scotland, South Africa, and Wales compete in a league format over 18 weekends, with the top eight advancing to the playoffs. Following the quarter-finals and semi-finals, the grand final determines the season’s champion. Since 2021, the URC has experienced significant audience growth, attracting over 120 million viewers in its first three seasons. The league’s appeal lies in its competitive and unpredictable matches, combined with unique match-day experiences and high-quality social media content produced each season. This partnership with IPVanish is poised to enhance these offerings further, ensuring a safer and more engaging digital environment for all participants and fans.