What is a VPN?
It’s software you install on your smartphone, tablet or computer that can help secure your personal information from being tracked by Internet providers, the government and criminals. But choosing a VPN may not be as simple as it sounds.
WHAT DOES A VPN DO?
Normally, when you’re perusing the Web, an Internet service provider helps to route traffic from your devices to each website you visit. In doing so, service providers like Verizon and Comcast can see what device you’re using, based on a unique string of numbers assigned to your phone and computer known as your IP address. They can also see what websites you visit, where you’re located and how much time you’re spending online. Using a VPN helps to conceal certain information from the Internet provider and any hackers or spies that might intercept your data. When you connect to a VPN server, all Web traffic from your device gets routed through the VPN provider’s Internet connection. That means that while you’re using the VPN, all your Internet service provider can see is the VPN server’s IP address. It cannot track the device you’re using, where you are or what websites you’re visiting. VPNs are especially recommended while using public Wi-Fi networks at airports, coffee shops and hotels, where you do not know who the Internet service provider is or what they’re doing with your data — and there is often less security.
ARE VPNS SAFE?
Though there are many pluses to using VPNs to secure your information, not all VPN providers protect your data with the same amount of diligence. In recent weeks, several fake VPN companies have cropped up, in an effort to take advantage of rising interest in data privacy by conning people into signing up for their service, which would then take user data and sell it. Be wary of free or ad-supported VPN providers and those that are new to the market. Look for VPN services that encrypt data end-to-end and do not record or keep customer information. Most reputable VPN services will charge a small monthly fee. Look for those that have been in business longer and have a history of privacy advocacy.
VPNS ARE NOT A CURE-ALL
Though VPNs are a good step toward keeping your information safe from prying eyes, they will not address all security concerns. If you have weak passwords, for instance, a VPN cannot keep hackers from gaining access to your devices or accounts. Strong passwords generally consist of an alphanumeric code of at least eight characters that is not repeated across devices or accounts. Several privacy groups provide online tools that can help amp up your privacy, including Fight for the Future’s privacy tutorial, Get Safe, found at www.letsgetsafe.org.