If you like your privacy, buying a VPN (Virtual Private Network) may be right for you.
Have you ever thought about how much of your life is broadcast-ed over the internet? Do you understand the benefits of a VPN? If you are concerned about your privacy, one way to take control of how you appear online while also securing your data is to use a VPN.
What is a VPN and how does it work? A VPN creates a virtual encrypted tunnel that operates between you and a VPN service. All of your internet traffic goes through the encrypted tunnel, which keeps your data safe. A VPN also allows you to mask your identity and location because your computer has the same IP address as your VPN server.
Here are a few things to consider before buying a VPN:
1. Payment Methods
Although the VPN will keep you anonymous, payment methods may often be carried out in a non-anonymous ways such as credit cards, etc. Be sure you understand all of the information before buying a VPN. In some cases, some websites offer an anonymous payment method in the form of a gift card. In conclusion, make sure to do your research!
2. VPN Security
A virtual private network is something you should consider for your own personal security. Encrypting your internet traffic is essential and you should use it when using the internet. Make sure to you find out what level of encryption your provider is offering. For example, AES-256 encryption would make sure your activity online is buried between under layers of security. This would make your personal info untouchable on public Wi-Fi.
A lot of the time, we use the internet to download images, music and even send important documents. Before buying a VPN, you must make sure you have the correct level of security. Another question you can ask, is your VPN provider certified by an independent security checker? This information is good to have for your own personal knowledge.
3. VPN Privacy
To avoid legal liability, you should think about buying a VPN service that will not log your personal data. Make sure you know that the VPN provider receives data completely anonymously and it is not connected to your real location or IP address.
Tip: Make sure the VPN is not a part of Nine Eyes, Five Eyes or Fourteen Eyes Network. These networks have an agreement between different countries and they log your internet traffic. You want to be sure that you are signed up to a VPN where there is no internet activity logged at all.
4. VPN Advertising
You should never trust a VPN service that advertises on sketchy websites. Right now, there is a big market for third party VPN lifetime subscriptions. If you are looking to get a VPN for privacy, why would you trust a middle man- a third party website -with your banking details and private information? Basically, avoid third party websites and go through the VPN Company directly.
5. Suspicious Plans
You know when something seems like it is too good to be true? Well that’s most likely because it is. When buying a VPN, keep an eye out for the cheap lifetime plans. Think about it, in order to run a secure and safe network of VPN servers with good applications and support, it is expensive. If you see a VPN network offering cheap lifetime subscriptions, it is most likely because they are collecting your user data and selling it to third parties. Just make sure to avoid these cheap lifetime plans, and remember to ask questions.
Reminders:
- Always read the Terms of Service before buying a VPN.
- Also, make sure your future VPN provider has not handed out user data in the past.
- Be sure your future VPN provider offers OpenVPN support across any platforms that you use.