Whether you are working from a coffee shop off of a public WiFi connection, online shopping from home, or checking your emails in a corporate office, using a VPN is one of the best ways to protect your privacy and security on the internet.
What is a VPN?
A VPN stands for a virtual private network. It works by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address by redirecting your network activity through a tunnel to a server in another location. This hides your online identity, so you are free to browse the internet safely and securely without being monitored.
When it comes to your online identity, there is nothing more important than online security. So whether you are running a business, streaming a movie, or simply surfing the web, here are eight reasons why everyone should use a VPN.
Privacy From Your Internet Server
Even when you’re connected to your home’s private Wi-Fi, your online data is still susceptible. If you are not using a VPN, your internet provider can monitor your online activity and collect your data. That data can then be sold to advertisers and can potentially fall into the wrong hands. A VPN can help protect your data by hiding your IP address from your ISP.
Public Wi-Fi Security
While convenient, public Wi-Fi can be extremely dangerous. Connecting to Wi-Fi networks in public spaces like airports and coffee shops can make it easy for someone to track your online activity. However, using a VPN can ensure your online safety by hiding your browsing history, secured passwords, and banking information from anyone else using the same network.
Data Privacy From Apps
Whether you are using social media apps like Facebook or streaming a movie through your favorite free streaming app, a VPN is essential for protecting your online identity. A VPN will hide your location and block your browser history to keep your data and location safe and secure.
Data Privacy From The Government
Ever since whistleblower Edward Snowdenleaked information that the NSA has been spying on the American population through online data, there has been significant distrust in the government. If you feel uneasy about your online privacy and government overreach, using a VPN can help you feel more secure while surfing the web.
Access Restricted Content Anywhere in The World
One of the best things about using a VPN besides cyber security is being able to stream restricted online content. Contrary to belief, it is perfectly legal to use a VPN to watch a television show that is only available in another country. Since VPNs jumble your location, it makes it impossible for streaming services to pinpoint where you are streaming from. Therefore you are able to stream any kind of content anywhere in the world without restrictions.
VPNs Are Easy To Use
Unlike other forms of cyber security, you don’t have to be a tech genius in order to use a VPN. Luckily, VPNs are one of the easiest cyber security tools to use to protect your online data and activities. In addition, there are plenty of VPN providers with user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for anyone to use.
VPNs Can Save You Money
Just as a VPN can jumble your location to help you stream restricted content, it can help you save money on certain online purchases. It is well known that streaming platforms and airlines offer services and products at different prices in different locations. Therefore you can use a VPN to hide your location and get the best deals possible.
Cyber Security is Not Guaranteed
While using a VPN is much safer than surfing the web without one, it cannot always guarantee your safety. Just like any other computer program, VPNs can be vulnerable to online attacks and malware. Before choosing a VPN, it is essential to do your research and proceed with caution.
