I reflexively swiped left when the inevitable newsletter modal started to appear at the bottom, so didn’t finish reading the article, but would like to know what gave you the dystopian vibe?
There are also a number of browser extensions which may be easier to set up and use for non-technical folks, for example FoxyProxy seems to offer one. I've never tried any myself, though.
Have you considered using the same Proxy or VPN? I work remotely and sometimes access services through a VPN based in the country my coworkers are at specifically to avoid this kind of annoyance.