I’m not European, but if I saw something like this, I’m not going to turn on my vpn, I’m just going to close the tab.

I think that is the correct answer for most of us. Whatever it is you're offering, the probability I actually need it is preeeeetty low. I waste too much time on the internet anyways, thanks for the reminder, website.

The type who visit HN realise that a VPN is useless

VPNs serve a purpose. Not always the purpose advertised though. Hopefully HN readers understand the nuance in tech and know how to properly use the available tools.

It can stop MITM issues at skeptics internet providers. It can route you to different nations (as many YouTube adverts indicate). It doesn’t magically protect you from H4Ck3Rz.

VPNs are extremely useful, and hopefully the type who visit HN understand the risks associated with using a VPN and know how to properly mitigate them.

In the same vein, they might be using a VPN as non-EU citizens who _want_ GDPR enforced in their daily browsing.