When it comes to online security, you would do everything to make sure everything is right and safe. Unfortunately, no matter what you do, there are still chances that you could be exposing yourself and your personal information to potential threats. How is that possible?
If your data security plan includes the use of the wrong VPN, then it’s one way that you are putting yourself at risk. It’s actually worse than having no VPN at all. You’ll find out why below.
But why do people use a VPN?
VPNs and the Dark Web
Ever heard of the dark web? It is a virtual place that has caught our imaginations because it runs in ways we cannot fathom.
For people who don’t know much about technical stuff, the dark world is very interesting as it provides them all-access to a lot of things. Here, they can download free content and stuff without any restriction. While it seems like a harmless way to take advantage of an uncontrolled environment, accessing this space actually comes with a high price, especially for innocent individuals.
With all the threats that await us on the web, many are lured to use just any VPN service that comes first in the search results. Once they have a VPN set up, they just use it to access BitTorrent and explore the dark web to access free content. What they do not know is that they are already exposing their details to bad actors.
Wrong VPN Choice: The Most Common Cybersecurity Mistake
In today’s fast-paced realm, ignoring Internet threats and dark web risks is not an option. However, many people still choose not to pay attention to their web security. Yes, they may have set up a basic security system, but they may have failed to update their software and set up a firewall.
You know what’s even worse? It’s when an individual or an organization chooses the wrong VPN service, assuming the encryption process is already set in place. Here’s the thing. Not all VPN services are created equal. While some VPN services are secure, others are designed to take advantage of and prey on the weak.
If you are among those individuals who make a wrong choice when it comes to VPN services, know that you are putting yourself in big trouble as you are leaving obvious loopholes in your security, which hackers and malware can use to retrieve crucial data.
So, the best thing you can do is to carefully choose a VPN provider to avoid exposing yourself to risky liability issues.
How to Choose a Safe VPN Service Provider
How do you choose a “safe” VPN service provider? With lots of VPN service providers out there, choosing a “safe” one can be a challenge. Hence, to narrow down your options, begin by checking the following factors:
- Reputation
Do not be tempted by cheap plans and offers. As much as possible, do your homework first and seek recommendations from others who have been using VPN services. If you are not confident with your choice, consider working with an IT consultant and ask him or her to help you decide.
- Standards
Be sure you choose a VPN service provider that follows and observes the industry standards. Once you have VPN companies on your list, check if they’re peer-reviewed and if they follow the laws and regulations of your state as well.
- Cost
The word “free” may sound very tempting, but in the world of VPNs, a provider that offers free services does not really make a good and safe choice. It will only recoup the costs in ways you do not know. For instance, they could sell your private data. If you are saving on cost, your best option is to find a low-cost VPN service provider. Don’t worry because the service will be worth your money and you will be protected against data theft and loss.
- Features
Find a VPN service provider that covers everything, including basic encryption. If you are uncertain about a feature, do not hesitate to ask. After all, it’s your data that are at stake here.
How Safe Are VPNs?
So, you’ve finally made a choice and decided to use a VPN. Still, you question the efficiency and security a VPN offers. Is it really safe to use a VPN? As long as you use the correct VPN, you are in safe hands. Here are the reasons why we think the right VPNs are safe:
- A VPN improves security.
When you connect to a VPN, your data is encrypted and secured. That way, information is concealed from hackers.
- It offers remote access.
If you use a VPN as an organization, you can reap more perks. Because information can be accessed remotely, employees can still be productive even if they are at home.
- It enables online anonymity.
With a correct VPN, you can browse the web anonymously. Unlike using web proxies or hide-IP software, a VPN service allows you to access websites and web applications in complete anonymity.
- It bypasses filters and unblocks websites.
A VPN service can be used to access a blocked website or to bypass an Internet filter. It’s the primary reason why VPN services are popular among countries with Internet censorship.
Why the Wrong VPN is More Dangerous than No VPN
Seriously, it is better to not set up a VPN than using a wrong one. Setting up a wrong VPN does not make sense at all because the provider can still see your traffic details and do anything with them.
Even if the provider promises not to log your details, you have no way to verify that. And of course, it’s the same thing that malicious and fraudulent VPN providers would claim. To be safe, think that every VPN service provider creates logs.
As you can see, a VPN can be a double-sided sword. While it can be used to protect people who want to access the web in a secure and safe way, it may also be a reason for malware and virus exposure.
If you want a reliable VPN service that won’t put your data at risk, we highly recommend Outbyte VPN. It does not log your activities, offers a high-speed connection with unlimited bandwidth, provides military-grade AES-256 encryption, and bypasses firewalls and Internet censorship. It also connects up to 5 different devices with one account. Secure your online experience with Outbyte VPN.