Risks to be aware of and precautions to take with free VPNs

Beware of free VPNs: what risks and precautions should you take?

A free VPN is tempting for many of us. Still, it is important to understand that using such software comes with substantial costs. Servers, infrastructure, maintenance, staff: all this is not free. So how do free VPN providers manage to keep users safe? Some employ tactics that could compromise your privacy. Moreover, free VPNs are known to introduce unwanted advertisements and cookies into your browsing sessions. This option poses a danger to businesses because their data could be exposed. Using a reliable, paid VPN ensures no data logging, robust encryption, and assured privacy.

The risks of using free VPNs

To reap the considerable benefits of using a VPN, it is important to choose the paid version. As mentioned earlier, there are potential dangers in using the free plan.

Collection of personal data

Most free VPNs finance their activities by selling users' sensitive information. This data may include IP addresses, download or browsing history, and geolocation information. Free VPNs have fewer server locations, hence the limit on geo-restricted content.

The security gap

Free VPNs do not have the same level of security as paid versions. They use weak encryption protocols, leaving you prone to cyberattacks. Your anonymity is then compromised.

Intrusive ads and the introduction of malware

Users experience intrusive ads while using free VPNs. They generate revenue by displaying advertisements. These can impact your device or even compromise your personal data.

Limiting speed and bandwidth

You will encounter drawbacks such as speed and bandwidth throttling with free VPNs. This can make the browsing experience frustrating, especially when downloading files or streaming.

The benefits of using a paid VPN

Internet users use VPNs for a variety of reasons, including online privacy, security, and access to geo-restricted content. Here are the main benefits of using a paid and reliable tool.

Online Privacy

One of the main reasons people use VPNs is to protect their online privacy. VPNs create an encrypted connection that hides users' online activity from their Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other prying eyes.

Reinforced security

VPNs provide users with enhanced security features, such as protection against cyber threats like hacking, phishing, and malware.

Access to geo-restricted content

Many people use VPNs to access geo-restricted content, such as streaming services or websites blocked in their region.

Remote work

VPNs are popular among remote workers who need to access their company's networks and resources securely. Depending on the subscription you choose, it is possible to bypass geographic restrictions. A VPN thus guarantees a smooth and secure working experience.

Paid and reliable VPNs to reduce cybersecurity threats

A paid VPN offers several advantages over one offered for free. In fact, it guarantees excellent security thanks to advanced encryption protocols. These services are essential to circumvent cyber threats as well as data leaks. Paid VPNs allow access to servers in multiple countries, giving you the ability to bypass geographic restrictions or even browse anonymously. Thanks to subscriptions, it is possible to benefit from 24/7 assistance via direct chat or even customer service.

NordVPN

NordVPN is the first choice of many users due to its high reliability. It has more than 6,400 servers in 111 countries. Streaming is one of NordVPN's biggest strengths. You can access a huge range of platforms including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max and DAZN, to name a few. It is therefore possible to access geo-restricted content and keep your online activities private. NordVPN is also known for its strong encryption, independently audited no-logging policy, and customizable kill switch. However, it also has a feature called MeshNet, a recently added tool that can route traffic from multiple devices through a single server. This is especially useful for securing smart TVs, gaming consoles, or other devices that don't support full VPN apps. The provider also offers split tunneling functionality. With its NordLynx technology, NordVPN offers fast speeds based on the WireGuard protocol. This allows for smooth and stable connections.

ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is founded by the Swiss company Proton Technologies AG. It has more than 8,300 servers spread across 112 countries. Proton VPN was designed to make browsing as smooth as possible. It protects your online activities with strong encryption, data leak protection, and a kill switch. Additionally, this VPN recently added a threat management suite capable of blocking ads and malware. Above all, Proton VPN has a strict no-logging policy. The VPN offers good connection speeds, especially with paid plans.

Surfshark

Surfshark stands out for its robust security features and excellent value for money. This VPN offers unlimited connection on more than 5 devices with an ad blocker and camouflage mode. Its network includes 3,200 servers in 100 countries. You can access streaming sites such as BBC iPlayer, Channel 5, Disney+ and Sky Go. It offers 24/7 customer support via live chat.

CyberGhost

CyberGhost is famous for having one of the most extensive networks in the world. It offers access to over 10,000 servers in over 100 countries. This VPN uses 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logging policy to ensure your activities are private. It also blocks ads and cookies. CyberGhost prevents data leaks and offers split tunneling functionality. The VPN provides excellent connection speed for streaming videos to multiple devices simultaneously. Users can choose between one-month, six-month, or annual subscriptions, with discounts that increase depending on the length of their subscription. CyberGhost supports iOS, Android, Mac OS, Windows and Linux devices.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is a VPN service founded by Express VPN International Ltd. It is known for its security and ease of use. The provider has more than 3,000 servers spread across 94 countries. If there's one area where Express VPN excels, it's streaming. This VPN reliably bypasses location detection systems on platforms such as BBC iPlayer, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video. It offers good connection speed and allows up to 10 connections at a time. Express VPN offers DNS and IPv6 leak protection. You also benefit from a kill switch which allows you to interrupt the Internet connection if the VPN service is not working. Express VPN adopts a no-logging policy. It is available for Windows, Android, iOS and MacOS. Linux systems and routers are supported but require manual configuration.