The internet is fun to use and full of information. However, it is risky, too. Whenever you use a less secure network or public Wi-Fi, anyone who has the password or some hacking knowledge can track your internet activity.
There are many ways through which you can protect yourself online. However, a VPN is the ideal solution for hiding your internet activity and location. It routes the data you exchange through a safe and secure virtual tunnel. This tunnel is between your device and the VPN server.
Undoubtedly, some VPNs are known for their security, which keeps their eyes on your internet activities. So, the real question here is, are VPNs safe and secure?
Read on to learn more about it.
What is a VPN? Let’s Understand How it Works
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It routes all your online activity through the third-party server. It means the route will not be like this: Your device -> internet.
Instead of it, the route will be like this: your device -> VPN -> internet.
Therefore, it will improve online secrecy, help you hide your IP address for privacy, and protect you from cyberattacks.
Are All Virtual Private Networks Secure?
From a technology perspective, VPNs are secure and sound. It helps you improve your digital privacy. It secures you from certain types of hacking attempts, which include MITM attacks, public Wi-Fi attacks, etc..
However, some specific VPNs are not safe and secure.
These VPNs do more harm than good. Usually, these VPNs are the free ones.
How do Unsecure VPNs Compromise Your Security
Here is how certain VPNs can be dangerous.
1. They Compromise Your Safety
Some free VPNs can compromise your security as they are already affected by malware. As these VPNs do not monetise their service through a monthly fee, they search for illegal ways to earn money. Therefore, they utilise your data to make money.
They come with Adware, Trojans, and Malvertising. These Adware install ads that are not relevant, or you probably do not want to see. Trojans offer your VPN provider access to your device without your permission. So, they can easily access your system, incorporating your private data, documents, and important files.. Malvertising creates automatic redirection. It means it redirects you to websites that are already affected by viruses.
2. Log Your Online Activities and Sell It to Advertisers
The main reason why people use a VPN is that it improves their online privacy and makes sure no one is keeping an eye on your online activities. However, some VPNs record your data and sell it to advertisers.
In short, when it comes to FREE VPNs, you become the product. Many free VPN providers make money by selling your browsing data to advertisers.
3. Sell Your Bandwidth
There are some VPNs which sell your bandwidth. It means they sell your device’s processing capabilities to third-party companies.
This can be dangerous.
It can slow down your device and network significantly because of the excessive processing power usage. Moreover, it may cause poor internet performance.
4. They Offer Weak Encryption
Encryption works like a lock for your data. Good VPNs use strong encryption keys like AES-256. On the flip side, bad VPNs use weak encryption so hackers can break it easily.
What are the Signs of Unsafe VPNs?
Here are some warning signs of insecure VPNs.
- They are completely free with no clear revenue model.
- Some VPNs ask for too many permissions on your smartphone.
- The app has poor reviews or shady ownership details.
- Speeds are extremely slow, and you see strange ads after using it.
If your VPN show these signs, think twice before trusting it.
How to Choose a Safe and Secure VPN?
When you search for VPNs, do your homework. Do not pick the random one that you find first on the internet. Here are a few tips that you need to keep in mind.
- Avoid using free VPNs because they can be a nightmare. They can log your data and sell it to third parties, compromise your security, and exploit your bandwidth. It does not mean all free VPNs are bad, but choose the one that has a legitimate way to make money, and you don’t become the product that is being sold.
- Check reviews and privacy policies.
- Look for a kill switch as it cuts your internet if the VPN disconnects. It keeps your data safe even if the VPN fails.
- Always check the encryption and look for AES-256 encryption, which banks and the military use.
In A Nutshell
A VPN is an excellent tool for privacy, but only if you use the right one. So, do not trust just any app that you find online. Look for the strong encryption, good reviews, and a real no-log policy. Do not use free VPNs that could sell your data.
Remember that your online security is in your hands. Therefore, before you click the “connect” button, ask yourself, Is this VPN really safe and secure?
