Many people use VPNs to hide their IP address, encrypt internet traffic, or unlock streaming sites. Free VPNs in app stores seem like a great deal. But are free VPNs safe?
This article will tell you about the 5 risks of free VPNs, such as potential malware, excessive advertising, and limited bandwidth.
We’ll also teach you how to choose a more reliable VPN so you can browse the internet safely without exceeding your budget.
What Is a Free VPN?
A free VPN is a virtual private network service that you can use without paying for a subscription. Like paid VPNs, it’s designed to encrypt your internet connection, change your IP address, protect your online privacy, and help you bypass geo-blocks or access restricted content.
On the surface, free VPNs and paid VPNs appear to have similar functions, but their business models are completely different. Free VPNs typically rely on advertising revenue or other methods to sustain operations, which can pose some risks.
Are Free VPNs Safe? 5 Risks You Should Know
While free VPNs may save you money in the short term, you will lose more. Here are 5 risks you need to know.
1. Free VPNs Contain Malware or Trojans
One of the biggest dangers of free VPNs is malware. Research shows that more than half of free VPNs are actually hiding places for malware. They not only spy on your personal information, but may also install hidden viruses or Trojans on your device.
This can slow down your internet speed and even compromise your privacy and security.
Read more: How to Get Rid of Malware [Beginner-friendly Guide]
2. Leak Your IP Address and Personal Info
Up to 80% of free VPNs will leak your information to advertisers, including browsing history, search habits, IP address, and your location information.
If you’re using a free VPN for sensitive tasks like online banking, your private information could be exposed, leaving you vulnerable to serious security threats.
3. Free VPNs Are Full of Ads
Most free VPNs rely heavily on advertising to generate revenue. That means you’ll likely be bombarded with pop-ups, banners, and full-screen ads while using the app.
This not only wastes your time but also violates your privacy. When you’re bombarded with ads for free VPNs, you’re paying for the so-called “free” with your own privacy.
4. Slow Your Internet Speeds
Do you notice that your internet speed slows when using a free VPN? Yes, free VPNs slow down internet speed.
Why does this happen? The reason is that free VPNs offer only limited server resources. As a result, thousands of users are crammed onto an overloaded server, competing for a limited amount of bandwidth.
5. Inability to Unblock Streaming Services
Many people choose VPNs to unblock streaming, such as Netflix movies or Hulu’s films.
Their servers are often blacklisted, meaning you won’t be able to access the content you want. For reliable streaming, only premium VPNs with dedicated streaming servers can consistently bypass restrictions.
Free VPN vs. Paid VPN: Which is Better?
Free VPNs aren’t the only option. Instead of taking the risks of a free VPN to save money, consider a secure and stable paid VPN, or a free trial plan for a paid VPN. The table below shows the differences between free and paid VPNs:
| Feature | Free VPN | Paid VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Security | Employs strong encryption and high-security protocols with additional safety measures. | Employs strong encryption protocols and additional security measures. |
| Functionality | Lacking advanced options like ad-blocking or a kill switch. | Includes advanced features such as solid encryption connections and ad-blocking. |
| Network Speed | Slow speeds and unstable connections. | Fast and stable speeds; More advanced infrastructure. |
| Data Limit | Most have monthly data limits, as low as 500MB. | Offers unlimited data with no usage tracking or restrictions. |
| Privacy Policy | A wide range of server locations is available, offering 50-100 options. | Usually based in countries with strict privacy laws, offers a no-logs policy. |
| Server Options | Limited server choices, ranging from 1-20. | Wide range of server locations available, offering 50-100 options. |
Free VPNs, while affordable, often suffer from limited data allowances, slow and unstable speeds, weak security, a lack of advanced features, limited server selection, and inadequate privacy protection.
In contrast, paid VPNs offer superior service in every aspect: unlimited data, faster and more stable speeds, stronger encryption and security protocols, and a wider selection of servers. Therefore, investing in a high-quality paid VPN is worthwhile.
If you don’t want the hassle of searching, let me introduce you to some great free VPN alternatives.
Best Free VPN Alternatives
1. LightningX VPN
LightningX VPN is one of the best VPN services. It has earned users’ trust with its stable network speed, powerful unlocking capabilities, and secure encryption technology.
- 2000+ servers in over 70 countries, including the US, Japan, and Australia.
- Supports unlocking sites such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Telegram, and ChatGPT.
- Utilizes virtual IP technology and the latest Sing-Box kernel with TLS-IN-TLS encryption protocol to ensure user privacy and security.
- Unlimited speed and data usage
- Supports simultaneous use on up to 3 devices.
- Multiple free high-speed nodes; 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. ProtonVPN
As the best alternative to free VPNs, ProtonVPN has independent vetting and certification, and promises not to store user records. Its free version includes servers in the US, the Netherlands, and Japan.
- Provide 16000+ servers covering 127 countries.
- It uses AES-256 encryption, WireGuard, and OpenVPN protocols for top-tier protection.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, and FireTV.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN uses features such as AES-256-bit encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch to ensure a secure online experience.
- Over 3000 servers across 90+ countries.
- Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.
- Supports 8 simultaneous connections.
- Premium pricing at $12.99/month, the highest on this list.
FAQs: Are Free VPNs Safe
1. Is a free VPN safe on an iPhone?
Not very safe. Even though iPhones are secure, a free VPN can still collect your data, track your activity, or insert ads into your traffic. iOS can’t fully stop a VPN app from doing that.
You can choose the best VPN on iPhone to help you get a more secure browsing environment.
2. Can a free VPN be hacked?
Yes. Free VPNs are generally not very secure. Their servers and applications may have vulnerabilities or use outdated encryption techniques that are easily cracked by hackers. If you use a free VPN, your data is more likely to be compromised.
