Busting common myths about VPNs in 2024
VPNs may be useful and popular tools for maintaining your online privacy. But, there are several misconceptions or myths surrounding this power tool. In this article, we will uncover the truth about VPNs by debunking 6 common myths about them.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) play several roles in the realm of online security, privacy, and network connectivity. They have become a common utility among privacy-savvy internet users. VPN makes your web-browsing activity more secure by enabling a private connection on your internet-capable devices. VPNs encrypt your identity and protect the information you upload from unauthorized access. Your devices such as mobiles, laptops, and tablets can be secured with a VPN by downloading a simple VPN application.
In most cases, VPNs can be enabled and disabled easily, so you can choose when to use them. VPNs are also useful for securing the internet connection on mobile devices, especially when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. This helps protect against potential security threats targeting mobile users.
At the same time, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). It's important to debunk these myths to understand better what the best premium VPN can and can not do. Hence, the most common myths about VPNs are debunked here in this article. Busting Six Common Myths About VPNs in 2024
1. VPNs Provide Complete Anonymity
It is not possible to become completely anonymous using a VPN. Even though they help you secure what you are doing on the internet by providing anonymity from websites, ISPs, and advertisers; your VPN provider can still look into your transmitted data. VPNs can enhance your privacy by masking your IP address but it doesn't mean that you become completely anonymous. The fact is that VPNs don't make you completely anonymous and it's crucial to be aware of the VPN provider's privacy policy and reputation. VPNs improve your data privacy and make tracking more difficult but it does not provide 100% protection against every form of surveillance.
When choosing a good VPN service, choose those services that keep your data on RAMs and not on long-term storage for better data privacy. Most reputed VPN service providers like Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and NordVPN follow this practice. 2. VPN Used For Illegal Things
Another great myth about VPNs is that most people think it is used for illegal online activities only such as torrenting and using geo-restricted content. But, this is a complete misconception. VPNs provide a certain level of anonymity but their main purpose is protecting privacy and not aiding illegal activities. VPNs are used to access geo-restricted content, enhance online security, and maintain privacy when using public networks. Any individual concerned with their online presence can use them but they are not synonymous with illegal activities.
In many cases, people do not want prying eyes looking at the normal, legitimate behavior they go through. They believe privacy should be their choice when and how they want to give up some of it. They can control what they share and with whom with a VPN and they don't have to worry about anything else. 3. VPN Is Not For Mobile
VPN is not for your mobile phone and can be used for computers only is one of the great myths among non-technical people. VPNs are for several devices including tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It doesn't matter if you are on WiFi or using mobile data to use a VPN. An encrypted VPN connection on your mobile device redirects your data to a secure VPN server, which encrypts your connection. Using a VPN service on your smartphone is an effective way of protecting your online activities. Plenty of your personal details are exchanged through your phone and hackers are attracted to them. Your smartphone leaves you vulnerable to identity theft and other cyber risks regardless of whether you are on a cellular connection or WiFi. Hence, a VPN is equally useful for your smartphones as well.4. VPNs Completely Protect Against Malware
It is not possible to avoid accidentally downloading a virus with VPN software alone because you can not call them an alternate or substitute for antivirus software. Such services provide an additional measure of security and encrypt your internet traffic, but they do not replace dedicated antivirus software. Rather than detecting and removing threats, it mainly secures your data transmissions and masks your IP address. You can't use a VPN to protect yourself if you voluntarily give out personal information on a malicious site. VPNs are not designed to identify or block phishing sites. Also, VPNs can't protect you if your device is already compromised. They only protect your data while it's in transit. You can, however, prevent some of these attacks by using some premium VPN services. 5. Don't Need VPN at Home
It is essential to use a VPN when using public WiFi but you can also use it at home to protect your data from hackers and your ISP. VPNs already exist in many homes without users knowing it. The Security Socket Layer (SSL) is enabled by default on the majority of web-connected devices. You won't be completely private on the internet with this type of VPN but you will be protected during certain transactions with it. ISPs can track your web browsing without a VPN if you do not use one. It is then possible for ISPs lacking values to sell this data to third parties, compromising the privacy of their customers. Hackers can't intercept your online traffic on compromised home networks if you are using a VPN. Therefore, the installation and activation of a VPN protects your home's cybersecurity. 6. VPNs Are Only For Geeks
The perception that VPNs are only for tech-savvy individuals is a common misconception. While VPNs may have been more closely associated with tech enthusiasts in the past, modern VPN services have become increasingly user-friendly, with simple interfaces and easy setup processes. Many providers offer intuitive and user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for individuals regardless of their technical expertise to use a VPN. Typically it involves downloading and installing a VPN application and then clicking a button to connect or disconnect. This is because VPN applications often come with automated setup processes minimizing the need for users to configure complex settings manually. This makes it accessible to a broader audience including those who may not have in-depth technical knowledge. Final Words
VPNs have potential but need to be used wisely and carefully, debunking myths to embrace their full potential. Also, it's crucial for users to have realistic expectations and to choose a reputable VPN provider that aligns with their privacy and security needs. Reading and understanding a VPN provider's privacy policy is also essential to ensure the service meets your expectations. It is possible to achieve a more secure and safe digital journey by selecting a reputable service, being aware of its limitations, and supplementing its benefits with other security solutions. So, don't fall victim to VPN misconceptions when choosing a VPN service provider, and start protecting your privacy and security today.
