The point of this post is to highlight that while you may need a VPN for certain purposes, it is not necessary to keep your connection secure. Built-in capabilities on your browser, iPhone, or computer provide sufficient security without one. A VPN won't protect you from viruses, malware, or most modern tracking methods, despite what the commercials claim. It simply conceals your IP address from websites you visit by routing your traffic through a middleman, who then forwards it to the destination.
Regarding privacy, it's worth noting that using a VPN means trusting the VPN provider with your browsing data instead of your Internet Service Provider (ISP). While some argue that VPN providers are more trustworthy than large ISPs like Verizon or AT&T, this is not something you should take as a fact. If anything, smaller VPN startups may have a greater incentive to monetize your data compared to large ISPs, as they often rely on additional revenue streams to sustain their business.
Moreover, modern websites have numerous ways to track users beyond IP addresses. Browser fingerprinting and other advanced techniques mean that hiding your IP address alone doesn't guarantee anonymity online. Even if you hide your IP address, it's still possible for websites to track and identify you using a combination of other pieces of information they are able to see. Tak a look at the browser information we were able to see from this session below as an example.
When You Need a VPN
- Accessing region-locked streaming content
- Watching sports events blocked in your region
- Bypassing network restrictions at school/work
- Accessing blocked websites in restricted countries
- Using public WiFi in countries you don't trust
When You Don't Need a VPN
- General web browsing security
- Protection from viruses or malware
- Keeping your online activity private
- Securing your passwords
- Preventing tracking by websites
Your Browser Information Dashboard
The items below were shared by your browser when you visited this page. A combination of these items and others not listed here are what websites use to track you, not the IP address alone. Even if you conceal your IP address with a VPN, you can still be identified through this unique combination of browser characteristics.
Your Device Fingerprint
Browser Details
Screen Information
System Information
Connection Information
Battery Status
Input Status
Additional Privacy Testing Tools
For more detailed analysis of your browser fingerprint, you can visit these specialized tools: