TL;DR: Learn about the risks associated with free VPNs in the app store and why non-technical users should avoid them to protect their online privacy and security.
Due to their ability to protect online privacy and secure data transmitted over the internet, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become increasingly popular among internet users in recent years. However, the popularity of VPNs has also resulted in a proliferation of free VPN services available on the app store, many of which claim to offer the same level of security as paid VPN services.
Even though a free VPN may seem attractive to non-technical users, the risks associated with these services should be considered. We will discuss why using a free VPN can be dangerous and provide examples to illustrate these risks in this blog post.
Malware and Spyware
With free VPNs, there is a risk of malware and spyware being bundled with the app. VPN providers may make money by selling user data or injecting advertisements into the browsing experience of their users. This can result in installing malicious software on the user's device, which can be used to gather sensitive information such as login credentials, bank details, and personal information.
Weak Encryption
The majority of VPNs use encryption to secure the user's data and prevent it from being intercepted by hackers or government agencies. However, free VPNs may use weak encryption algorithms or do not use any encryption at all, which means that the user's data is not adequately protected. As a result, data leaks can occur, and the privacy of the user may be compromised.
Limited Bandwidth and Slow Speeds
A free VPN provider may limit the bandwidth available to users, resulting in sluggish connection speeds and buffering when streaming content. In addition, it can be frustrating for users who wish to watch their favourite television shows or movies uninterrupted.
Logging and Selling User Data
In some cases, free VPNs may log user data, including browsing history and IP addresses, and sell this information to third parties for advertising. As a result, it can compromise the user's privacy and result in targeted advertising, spam emails, and even the theft of personal information.
Examples of Risky Free VPNs
Hola VPN
Hola VPN is a free VPN service that allows users to access blocked websites in their country. However, Hola VPN was accused of selling user bandwidth to third parties, which means that others may be able to use the device as a proxy server. As a result, the user's IP address can be used for illegal purposes.
Free VPN Hola Sells Users' Bandwidth, Puts Them at Risk
Hotspot Shield
Hotspot Shield is a free VPN service that claims to provide secure and private browsing. However, Hotspot Shield was accused of snooping on VPN users and selling data to advertisers.
Hotspot Shield accused of snooping on VPN users and selling data to advertisers
Cannot lock down data
Some free VPN providers may not have the money to protect and lock down your valuable data. This isn’t necessarily malicious or nefarious, but it still severely affects users.
Seven Hong Kong VPN providers accused of exposing private user data
Conclusion
Therefore, non-technical users should be cautious when using free VPNs available in the app store. Although some free VPNs may offer basic protection, they often come with risks that can compromise the privacy and security of the user. Instead, you should use a reputable paid VPN service that offers better encryption, unlimited bandwidth, and does not log user information.
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