Looking for Robust Privacy Tools? Have You Ever Heard about VPNs?

There’s a bunch of cybersecurity products to choose from. So much so that instead of making one’s devices immune to hackers, most tools end up not being used at all. Or worse — users end up with shoddy products that make them even more vulnerable. So, when choosing the right stuff to secure yourself, it’s not just about picking the right tool — it’s about considering your needs.

VPN tools are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. While better known for providing access to digital content abroad, VPNs are also incredibly robust security tools. If you pick the right one, that is. So, let’s take a look at how they work.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a tool that secures your browsing activities and protects your privacy. It does so by sending your data traffic through a secure VPN server that cloaks it with robust encryption, changing your IP in the process.

But what does it mean, exactly? If someone were to snoop on your online activities, be it your employer, internet service provider, or even a criminal, they’d see nothing. Encryption scrambles data. Therefore, even if someone was monitoring your traffic, they’d see gibberish.

In addition, VPN changes your IP address, so no one can trace your identity through your IP. It also changes your virtual location, preventing eavesdroppers from seeing where you’re connecting from.

What does a VPN do for you?

Security on the web. The internet can be a dangerous place — one wrong turn, and your device is infected. Things like malware can render your device useless, but that’s the better end of the spectrum. If a criminal manages to expose your data when you’re logging in to your bank, you might end up with empty pockets.

And that can easily happen if you’re connecting to public Wi-Fi unprotected. Wi-Fi hotspots are a hacker’s dream — they have very weak security and plenty of potential victims. That’s why a VPN is a must. If you’re connecting to networks or websites with weak security, you might be exposing very sensitive personal data.

Privacy. You might think you have nothing to hide, but you wouldn’t give up your bank passwords or home address to a random stranger on the street, right? Privacy is just as important in your digital life, but everything you do online leaves a trace.

Not with a VPN though — your IP address changes so it can’t easily be traced back to you. Now you can surf the net privately, without worrying about prying eyes.

Online freedom. Have you tried watching your favorite TV show when on vacation only to find that it’s unavailable in that particular country? That’s geoblocking. The website you’re accessing sees your IP address and the region you’re connecting from, so they can block you.

But not with a VPN — it changes your IP address and virtual location, so you can enjoy your favourite content no matter where you are. Some VPN providers offer 5,000+ servers in +50 countries so you can enjoy the internet without borders.

What to consider when choosing a VPN service

No logs. This is essential in any VPN you’re using. You need something that doesn’t track, collect, or share your data with third parties.

Speed. Speed is a must for a VPN. You should never have to compromise your safety to avoid that annoying buffering icon.

Easy to use. Robust cybersecurity doesn’t have to be complicated. You better make sure that you need just a few clicks, and your devices are secure. Not sure what server you should connect to? Simply click one Connect button. It automatically picks the best server for you.

Additional features. On top of the robust security that you already get when using a VPN, Some services have additional features to secure your online activities from criminals. Features that automatically block websites known for hosting malware, securing your devices from getting infected.

Multiple devices. You need to make sure that one account is enough to secure all your devices across different platforms. You don’t need to purchase different apps for your phone, laptop, or tablet.