Virtual private networks, or VPNs, are not inherently unsafe, but choosing the wrong one can expose users to risks. Experts emphasize evaluating protocols, privacy policies, and security features before use. While VPNs enhance online anonymity, they alone cannot protect against all cyber threats.
Virtual private networks (VPNs) have become common tools for hiding online activities, including those that might violate local laws, such as bypassing age verification. However, their safety hinges on the provider's design and operations, according to cybersecurity analyses.
Negligent VPNs can fail users through outdated protocols like PPTP, which have known encryption flaws potentially exposing search histories. Other risks include DNS leaks from public servers, revealing visited websites; IPv6 mismanagement, leaking real locations; reliance on unvetted third-party servers prone to hacks; and absence of a kill switch, which could connect users to fraudulent servers.
Malicious providers pose greater dangers by monetizing user data—through tracker-laden ads, selling residential IP addresses as proxies, monitoring activities for advertisers, or even installing malware.
To identify safe options, researchers recommend scrutinizing reviews from sites like Engadget and user feedback on social media and app stores. Look for histories of data handovers despite no-logs claims, server breaches, or vague company details. Privacy policies often contain loopholes; users should assess for unacceptable logging exceptions.
Testing during trial periods involves verifying protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard, paired with strong ciphers like AES-256. Leak tests on sites like ipleak.net confirm IP masking. Essential features include a kill switch—sometimes called a firewall—and open-source code on platforms like GitHub for transparency. Additional blockers for ads, malware, and trackers should function, as tested on sites like www.ianfette.org.
Paid VPNs are generally preferable to free ones, which often profit by commodifying user data. Recommended providers include Proton VPN, owned by a nonprofit with open-source apps and no major breaches; ExpressVPN, which retained no data during server seizures; NordVPN, which improved security post-2018 hack; and Surfshark, which addressed authentication weaknesses in 2022.
VPNs mask IP addresses and encrypt traffic but do not guard against malware from suspicious links, phishing, or social engineering. Comprehensive protection requires habits like strong passwords and timely updates.