[Written By External Partner]
The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly made more people curious about Virtual Private Network (VPN) services. According to Statista – VPN usage has spiked worldwide. For example, VPN usage in Italy went up by 160%, while in the United States, it went up by 124%.
There are many reasons why VPNs became more popular during the pandemic. As more people observe physical distancing protocols and stay-at-home orders, they’re turning to VPN technology to improve their security and privacy in the face of alarmingly high cybersecurity attacks. Additionally, a VPN subscription opens many entertainment and shopping options.
How Do I Pick the Right VPN Service?
A quick search on the Internet shows that there are many VPN services to choose from today. Picking the right one depends on your needs. Of course, you must stay away from free VPNs for the following reasons:
- The owners of free VPNs often spy on their users for profit, making them counterproductive to use.
- Free VPNs use obsolete technology and are a security risk.
- Some businesses that run free VPNs often sell the bandwidth of their users.
- Free VPNs can deliberately slow down your connection to sell you ‘upgrades’.
- A movie streaming through a free VPN can often turn into a slideshow during peak hours.
Use a Technologically Advanced VPN If Security Is a Concern
A significant advantage of using a VPN is that it encrypts your data, making it nearly impossible for state-sponsored actors, cybercriminals, and hackers, to decrypt your information. Select a cutting-edge VPN service that uses a superior protocol like WireGuard. Here are some advantages of WireGuard technology:
- Latest encryption
- Performance enhancements
- Lighter and faster than the outdated OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec protocols
Pick a Reputable VPN Provider If Privacy Is a Concern
Many people use VPN services to protect their privacy. A VPN masks your IP address so that threat actors can’t trace you to your home. Instead of the IP address provided by your ISP, you select from a list of IP addresses from your VPN.
But what’s the point of using a VPN if the VPN itself is spying on you? That’s why you should subscribe to a reputable VPN service provider known for online safety. For example, the Malwarebytes VPN protection service is from a renowned name in cybersecurity. Malwarebytes produces cybersecurity software used by leading organizations globally and regularly publishes critical research on online privacy and security.
Critics call their VPN the most secure VPN today, and they pledge not to retain or log any data related to web traffic, DNS requests, IP addresses, bandwidth or network connections.
Pick a VPN with 256-Bit Encryption If You Travel
You know that public WiFi isn’t particularly safe, but you probably don’t have a choice but to use the Internet connection at airports, hotels, cafes, and malls when travelling. Thankfully, a VPN with 256-bit encryption can secure public WiFi. Remember, such a VPN would take millions of years to crack.
Pick a VPN That Bypasses Geo-Blocking Technology to Shop or Consume Entertainment
Websites like Netflix, PayPal, Steam and more, use geo-blocking technology to block visitors from certain geographical locations. You need a VPN that bypasses geo-blocking technology if you want to watch Netflix USA from Canada or use PayPal in a country where it’s unavailable. Although there are many VPNs to choose from, not every service offers the same features and technology. Take the time to select the right one for the best results.
