Are Free VPNs Putting You at Risk?
There has been a rapid movement in the worldwide adoption of VPNs. The reasons for using a virtual private network should be obvious: Increased security, anonymity, and online access to geo-restricted content. But what types of VPNs are safe to use? Are free VPNs putting you at risk?
The truth is, not all VPNs are created equal.
And the wrong ones can certainly put your business at risk.
Free VPNs aren’t always what they claim to be, despite their promise to be zero-cost. Why might they be lying? Let’s look deeper into free VPN services.
To begin with, it’s critical to understand that running a VPN comes with significant cost.
The main question is, how do free VPN services fund their operations? Some use a strategy that might compromise your privacy and security.
Let’s set the scene: you’re enjoying your morning coffee while browsing the internet on your free VPN. The reality of this situation is your private data is simultaneously being gathered and sold online to the highest bidder.
It’s not only cyber criminals, even advertisers and government officials are potentially getting their hands on your data.
Shocking, huh?
Free VPNs are also notorious for adding unwelcome ads and tracking cookies to your browsing sessions. Ever wonder why you’re getting strangely accurate ads all of a sudden? Most likely, your free VPN is making money off your online browsing behavior.
Dangers for Businesses
And that’s personal danger. Imagine the possible risk if an employee installs a free VPN on a business computer or personal device they use at the office. Data from the company can be made public, which poses a serious business risk. Imagine the terrifying possibility that your company’s sensitive data ends up in the wrong hands.
What’s the solution to this?
It is important to inform your staff of the dangers of using free VPNs. Promote the use of reputable VPN services that charge a fee but promise no data logging, strong encryption, and greater user privacy.
In fact, it might be a good idea to get them one. Get in contact if we can help you find the VPN that is both safe and appropriate for your business.
Remember, when it comes to online security, free services often come with a higher cost. It is worth investing a few dollars to safeguard the important information of your business.
If you’d like to find out more about what’s new in the tech world, make sure to follow our blog!
Click here to schedule a free 15-minute meeting with Stan Kats, our Founder, and Chief Technologist.
STG IT Consulting Group proudly provides IT Services in Greater Los Angeles and the surrounding areas for all your IT needs.
