Keeping Your Online World Safe: The Security Advantages of Using a VPN
Nowadays, we do a lot of things on the internet and it’s crucial to keep our personal information safe and private.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the best tools to keep us safe online. Let’s explore what VPNs are and why they’re so important for keeping our online actions safe.
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a secure and encrypted connection that helps users to access the internet privately and securely. Imagine it as a secret tunnel on the internet. When you have a VPN on your device, it encrypts your data as it travels through a secure tunnel and hides your Internet Protocol (IP) address. Your IP is like a digital or home address for your device on the internet. The information you request is sent to this address when you browse the internet. So when you use a VPN what you do online is hidden from everyone else, like your internet service provider (ISP), cybercriminals, and any third-party agents like advertisers. Even if someone manages to get their hands on your data, they wouldn’t be able to understand it because it is encrypted.
It is important that you choose reliable VPN services. Software reviews expert Aleksandar Stevanovic says the best VPNs excel in security, speed, pricing, and server pool size, and have user-friendly policies. When evaluating VPN options, consider these features and choose one that aligns with your specific requirements.
Why Do You Need A VPN?
Did you know that the FBI estimated that in 2020 alone the United States lost more than $4 billion to cybercrime? Such shocking numbers are evidence you need to keep your online activities safe. But you first have to understand the risks and the potential consequences of leaving your online activities unprotected. Let’s take a look at some common cyber threats you may encounter.
Malware: Hackers can easily plant malware on your device through an insecure Wi-Fi connection. If your smartphone or computer is not properly secured you could accidentally download malicious software (malware) with viruses, ransomware, and spyware which can put your privacy at risk. For example, ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files on your computer so you can’t access information on your device. Usually, hackers demand ransom if you want to regain access to your information. Imagine if someone locked all the doors and windows of your house and demanded money to give you back your keys.
Spyware is malicious software that monitors your online activities, like having someone secretly watch everything you do online without your knowledge. It collects your browsing history and passwords and sends it to third parties like advertisers without your consent.
Phishing: Cyber criminals can pretend to be a real company or person you trust. They trick you into giving them personal information like passwords, and banking details. For example, if you fall victim to a phishing scam you could lose access to your bank account. Fishing scams commonly appear as emails that appear to be from trusted companies. Consumers commonly receive fake emails claiming that they’ve purchased something online and asking them to call a number or visit a website to confirm their transaction. While it can be tempting to click or call, consumers should be wary of emails that come from unofficial addresses or look slightly off.
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: Cyber attackers can insert themselves between you and the network’s access point when connected to an unsecured network like public wi-fi. This means that rather than communicating directly with the Wi-Fi hotspot, you communicate with the hackers who can use your data for malicious purposes.
Data Breaches: Hackers can gain unauthorized access to sensitive or confidential information and sell it on the dark web, or use it for criminal purposes. You could have your identity stolen, lose money, or in the case of companies data breaches could damage their reputation.
Safe Online Transactions: For online gamers, a VPN can secure transactions, especially when purchasing in-game items, crypto transactions, or subscriptions. This minimizes the risk of credit card fraud and identity theft. Some games and their in-game purchases are region-locked due to licensing agreements. A VPN allows you to appear as if you are accessing the internet from a different location, enabling you to bypass these restrictions and access content, including special editions and promotional offers, that may not be available in your region. For example, online casinos, sports betting, and poker rooms are not allowed in many states, but playing crypto poker or casino games instead of using fiat can help players bypass these restrictions.
What are the Benefits of Using a VPN for Security?
Using a VPN online has several benefits you may want to take advantage of. Let’s look at these advantages.
Anonymity: When you connect to the internet through a VPN, it hides your real IP address. This means your identity and browsing habits remain anonymous, which prevents advertisers, government agencies, and cybercriminals from accessing your private information.
Secure Data Transmission: VPN scrambles your data so only the intended receiver can understand it. This is like sending a secret coded message. It’s important because it helps keep your sensitive information safe. Whether you’re logging into your online bank account, shopping online, or sending confidential work emails, a VPN ensures that your data remains protected during transmission.
Public Wi-Fi Security: Public Wi-Fi networks, like the ones you might use at a coffee shop or airport, are convenient, but can be risky. Most public Wi-Fi networks are notorious for not being secure because they are unencrypted, which means anyone can see what you’re doing online if they have the right tools. Without a VPN, your data is vulnerable to interception by cybercriminals who exploit these networks. With a VPN, your data is protected.
Enhanced Corporate Security: VPNs aren’t just for people at home – businesses use them too. VPNs can protect a company’s sensitive data from prying eyes. Remote workers can also access company resources provided by their leaders securely.
Counteracting Surveillance: In countries where there is government surveillance and censorship, you may face risks to your privacy, freedom of expression, and even personal safety. With A VPN you are free to browse online without worrying about being watched.
Bypassing Geolocation Restrictions: Have you ever tried to access a website or streaming service only to be blocked because of your location? With a VPN, you can bypass these geolocation restrictions by connecting to a server in a different country. This not only preserves your online freedom but also enhances your security by allowing you to access content safely and anonymously.
Tips for Choosing and Using a VPN
- Choose a VPN service that prioritizes your privacy, offers robust encryption methods, and promises not to keep any records of your online activities to ensure your data remains confidential.
- Enable Kill Switch Protection: With the kill switch, if the VPN connection suddenly stops, your internet connection also stops. This keeps your data safe from being exposed to prying eyes.
- Regularly Update Your VPN Software with the latest security features.
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your VPN account by enabling multi-factor authentication, such as SMS codes or biometric authentication.
Conclusion
A VPN has many benefits that you can take advantage of while using the internet. A VPN helps keep you safe by hiding who you are online so you can use the internet with peace of mind knowing your personal information is safe.
