The VPN Industry Is Getting More And More Shady.

The internet and the emergence of digital tools have become a universal activity that has completely changed how individuals do various things. From leisure activities, such as streaming movies or music, to working or studying remotely and accessing information almost entirely from online sources, there is no denying that people are extensively relying on the internet. Products and services are made available online so that convenience has also become a great value on which consumers base their buying behavior. With so much accessibility, some issues are bound to appear.

Hence, there is a downside to the accessibility of the internet or, in other cases, the lack of it. Whether you need to access public Wi-Fi or some websites have restricted access in some regions, there is a demand for VPN services. This service allows you to use such websites or platforms and provide secure internet networks by hiding your IP address and, thus, your location. But even the use of VPN services has become quite controversial. This happens for multiple reasons. It is seen as suspicious behavior as to why you need to use it. Or, it’s because the VPN industry is generally getting more suspicious, mainly because of the emergence of VPNs that keep logs and don’t protect users’ privacy as they should.

The following article will discuss VPN use, why to avoid certain VPN apps due to their logging issues, and which ones that don’t log traffic can be used instead.

VPN Industry

How does a VPN service work?

VPN services have become so popular because it allows users to connect more securely to internet networks. Essentially, a VPN uses secure encryption by rerouting the internet traffic through a secure tunnel between the user and a remote server. This added security and increased privacy are highly valued by users, especially if they have to use a public network. Not only is your identity protected from prying eyes, but also your location.

Therefore, when using a VPN, the IP address of a user is no longer visible, making it hidden to your internet service provider or ISP. Such a feature allows you to access websites from abroad, as there is no particular location attached to you, given your IP address is concealed. So, there is no denying the usability and benefits of using a VPN service. But, not all VPNs are secure, and some don’t use the no-log policy, which means VPN providers have access to users’ details, invalidating the promise of privacy.

How do some VPN providers log traffic? 

Although VPNs are beneficial and can indeed protect your online activity, as they are meant to keep private information private, it is also an industry that is, in some situations, becoming shadier and shadier. One might ask themselves whether to use a VPN service at all if their sole purpose of providing privacy is a questionable matter. Don’t worry; you can still use a VPN, as there are some reliable services available. However, you have to do your due diligence before selecting and deciding on a VPN service.

So, what does it mean for a VPN provider to log traffic? The fact is that the VPN industry is surrounded by controversy. This happens because many providers are known to keep records on their users – known as traffic logs. The contents of these logs include browsing history records, the messages you send, and other types of internet traffic information. Undoubtedly, this matter is a significant concern for users, as that means the reason for using a VPN to ensure privacy is no longer valid. 

How to choose a reliable VPN service?

If you have to use this service, it is best to be safe than sorry and thoroughly research no-log VPN providers before jumping to the first VPN service you encounter. Indeed, reliable ones are not free. However, most of them have a money-back guarantee, a free trial, or affordable plans to choose from. With all the suspicion and controversy around the VPN industry, it is even more advisable to spend some time looking for a reliable no-log VPN. 

Apart from the common feature of ensuring users’ privacy, these VPN services also have a no-log policy which means that the VPN will not keep a record of the users’ data. This is highly valued and what individuals seek from a VPN service. What’s more, the recommended and trusted VPNs offer different features that suit different needs. Hence, you can choose one that fits your preference, also taking into account various price plans. For instance, you may want a fast VPN to use for streaming platforms.

Other privacy issues with VPN services

Research has revealed that several VPN apps also request “dangerous” permissions, like your mobile number or the type of cell network you use. This has made people skeptical in regards to using such a service or what kind of VPN is to be trusted. To clear the air and explain the situation better, here are some of these unnecessary permissions that some VPN services request:

          Phone call logs and phone number;

          Cell network;

          Unencrypted phone state data;

          Precise location requests and access to SD card;

          DNS leaks;

The above are present in various VPN services that are free or too cheap, making you wonder whether it is too good to be true. Not having to pay for a VPN service can be a great incentive for many. However, it is of the utmost importance you conduct thorough research and see whether this particular free or inexpensive VPN is among the ones under scrutiny. 

Why is there such a need for VPN services?

There are numerous reasons why people need to use a VPN. For starters, it gives you a secure internet connection if you need to use public Wi-Fi, which can be quite dangerous in terms of tracking online activity. Another reason is the need to access video or music content from streaming platforms from other countries. Certain TV shows, for example, are not available in all countries. With a VPN, you don’t have this restriction.

But one of the main reasons certain people need to use a VPN service is for remote work. Thanks to its data encryption features, you can access sensitive and vital information from the company you work for from your device. For this reason, many employers invest in VPNs for their remote workers. A noteworthy mention would be that you should opt for a no-log VPN provider, regardless of why you need this service.



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