Are VPNs protecting us and ensuring private browsing? Let’s find it out!
VPNs have become a popular solution that many people have decided to use to “protect and ensure their privacy” and “enjoy safe web browsing”. It is also commonly used to bypass geographical restrictions and access certain content inaccessible from the country you are browsing.
It’s pretty common to think about a VPN as follows: “because I use a VPN, no one knows where I am and what I browse on Internet”. But as the old saying goes, «all that glitters is not gold». And I believe all VPN customers should understand how a VPN works and not be fooled by someone trying to sell you a VPN service.
In a nutshell, what is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that allows users to connect to a private network over the internet securely. When a VPN is used, a secure “tunnel” is created between the user’s device and the VPN server, which encrypts all the data transmitted between them.
Using a VPN makes it difficult for anyone monitoring the connection (such as a hacker on a public WiFi network) to intercept and read the data. VPNs are often used to protect sensitive data, such as online banking transactions, or to securely access company resources from remote locations.
How a VPN Works?
When you connect to a VPN, you need to download and run a small piece of software onto your device that establishes a secure connection to the VPN server. This software creates a “tunnel” between your device and the VPN server, which encrypts all the data that passes through it.
Here’s a simplified overview of how a VPN connection works:
- You connect to the VPN server by downloading and installing a VPN client on your device.
- The VPN client requests the VPN server to establish a secure connection.
- The VPN server authenticates the request and creates a secure tunnel between your device and the server.
- All data transmitted between your device and the VPN server is encrypted and sent through the secure tunnel.
- When you want to access a website or other online resource, your device sends a request through the secure tunnel to the VPN server.
- The VPN server forwards the request to the destination website or resource on your behalf and then sends the response back to you through the secure tunnel.
- The VPN client decrypts the data on your device, and you can access the requested website or resource.
By routing your internet traffic through a VPN server, you can protect your data from being intercepted by hackers or other third parties. You can also “mask” your IP address to appear as if you are in a different location.
What are the risks of using a VPN?
There are a few risks to consider when using a VPN:
- Insecure VPNs: Not all VPNs are created equal, and some may not provide the security and privacy they claim to offer. Choosing a reputable and transparent VPN provider with a proven track record of protecting its users’ data is essential.
- Malware and other threats: Some VPNs have been found to contain malware or other threats that could compromise your device. It’s essential to carefully research and choose a trustworthy VPN provider to minimize this risk.
- Compromised VPN servers: If a hacker compromises the VPN server you are connected to, your data could be at risk. This is why choosing a VPN provider with robust security measures to protect its servers is crucial.
- Government restrictions: In some countries, VPNs are restricted or prohibited. If you use a VPN in one of these countries, you could be at risk of legal consequences.
- Performance issues: Using a VPN can sometimes slow down your internet connection, depending on the VPN server you are connected to and the distance between you and the server.
Overall, the risks of using a VPN can be minimized by carefully choosing a reputable and transparent VPN provider and using the VPN responsibly.
But… are VPN providers tracking me instead?
It depends on the VPN provider. Some VPN providers may track and collect data about your online activities for various reasons, such as selling to third parties or improving their services. It’s important to carefully read the privacy policy of any VPN provider you are considering using to understand what data they collect and how they use it.
There are also VPN providers that have a strict no-logging policy, which means they do not track or collect any data about your online activities. These types of VPNs offer a higher level of privacy and can be a good choice if you are concerned about your online privacy.
It’s always a good idea to research and choose a reputable and transparent VPN provider with a solid commitment to protecting your privacy.
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Resources
Images
- https://vpnoverview.com/vpn-information/what-is-a-vpn/
- https://softwaretested.com/vpn/heres-how-vpn-works/
- https://vivaldi.com/blog/vpns-proxies-privacy/
- https://www.millionaireacts.com/3523/5-risks-entrepreneurs-will-face.html
YouTube footage
- Why VPNs are a WASTE of Your Money (usually…) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_b8Z2kAFyY
