A VPN or Virtual Private Network is a tool used to improve your security when online. It creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and a server run by the VPN provider. Besides using strong encryption, your IP address is replaced by the IP address of the server you are connected to. As a result, your online journey can't be tracked. You can also choose the location of the server you connect to allowing you access to different versions of websites. For example, using a VPN, you can trick a website into thinking that you are accessing it from another country and see content not available to read in your country.
Using a VPN can reduce your download and upload data speeds
Because using a VPN adds extra steps when you download or upload data, the use of such a tool will reduce your data speeds. Don't be alarmed if you're using a VPN and run a test on the Speedtest app and notice slower speeds. But there is something that tens of millions of first time VPN users need to be aware of regardless of whether they use an iOS or Android powered smartphone.
Earlier this month Google issued a warning about malicious VPN apps. "Threat actors distribute malicious applications disguised as legitimate VPN services across a wide range of platforms to compromise user security and privacy. These actors tend to impersonate trusted enterprise and consumer VPN brands or use social engineering lures, such as through sexually-suggestive advertising or by exploiting geopolitical events, to target vulnerable users who seek secure internet access," Google wrote in a blog post.
Partial list of VPNs listed in the Google Play Store. | Image credit-PhoneArena
Once these apps are installed, they deliver dangerous payloads containing malware that steals personal data, remote access trojans and banking trojans that collect private messages, browsing history, credentials for your financial apps, and information related to your cryptocurrency wallet.
DHS agency CISA recommends staying away from free VPNs
According to Google, Android and Google Play detect potentially harmful apps by using Google's machine learning algorithms. The company suggests that users turn on Google Play Protect to keep their data private and apps safe. Google Play Protect has an enhanced fraud protection pilot that helps block users from installing apps that request permissions that are often abused in situations involving financial fraud. These apps won't install if you try to sideload them from a web browser, file manager, or messaging app.
Inside the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a standalone organization known as the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). As its name suggests, CISA is supposed to help Americans reduce their cyber-risk every day. CSA has also issued a warning about the use of VPNs. The agency said, "Do not use a personal VPN. Personal VPNs simply shift residual risks from the internet service provider (ISP) to the VPN provider, often increasing the attack surface."
Stick to VPNs listed in the Play Store or App Store
CISA also repeated Google's warning by stating that "many free and commercial VPN providers have questionable security and privacy policies." Be careful from where you source your VPN. Do not install VPNs from Chinese developers. Some of these are free which is a trick used to entice victims. It is recommended that you stick to VPNs developed by western companies which means that you might have to pay for it.
Do you use a VPN on your phone?
Yes, yes I do.
85.71%
No, no I don't.
14.29%
As a result, you might want to install VPNs listed in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for Android and iOS users respectively. If you are an Android user browsing the Play Store for a VPN, make sure that you have Play Protect enabled. Do not disable or pause Play Protect to install a VPN that has been red flagged by the feature. It is also recommended that you refrain from using free VPNs. Instead, stick to a paid VPN with a clear subscription plan.
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Alan, an ardent smartphone enthusiast and a veteran writer at PhoneArena since 2009, has witnessed and chronicled the transformative years of mobile technology. Owning iconic phones from the original iPhone to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, he has seen smartphones evolve into a global phenomenon. Beyond smartphones, Alan has covered the emergence of tablets, smartwatches, and smart speakers.
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