VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that allows you to access the internet while connected to another server, usually in a distant location. This way, it appears as though it was connected to the server’s location.
On the other hand, VPNs have been around for years and had since grown in popularity. It was originally used by organizations to securely share information. But today, many people now individually own VPNs and have been used to bypass firewalls and do other sorts of activities.
Common VPN Myths and Misconceptions
However, since the inception of the technology, there has been some myths and misconceptions about VPNs you shouldn’t believe. Here are the most common.
1. VPNs are illegal to use
While many people fear that the use of a VPN may land them into legal issues, this is untrue. VPNs were created by organizations to transfer sensitive data securely and are still being used for that purpose. However, the personal use of VPNs for shady purposes has led many into thinking that the use of a VPN is illegal.
A VPN should be used for encryption of information sent or received over the internet. It is possible, (though unlikely) for a hacker to get to your information. But even if he gets there, it’s of no use, it’s encrypted.
On the other hand, VPN, likewise any other tool can be used for legal and malicious purposes. The fact that other internet users utilize VPN for malicious activities does not make VPN illegal, does it?
2. You don’t need to pay for a VPN
Everyone jumps at free offers. We’re programmed to be sensitive to free offers.
A free VPN may just be good, but you’re unknowingly paying for the used services, and most times, you’re giving up a lot.
Imagine trying to binge a live video on a streaming website, you log on to your free VPN and discovered that the bandwidth has already been used up. Even if it hadn’t, it loads at an annoyingly slow rate or does not even load the video. This is the case with those who use free VPNs.
One way or the other, you need to pay for what you use. Some dubious free VPN service providers in the cybersecurity market sell your information to afford the server costs and other fees.
However, you can make use of a premium VPN service provider like RitaVPN. With RitaVPN, you can eliminate issues of low bandwidth, slow connections or insecure information.
3. VPN Will Slow Down Your Internet Connection
Some people had spent their entire lives believing that the use of a VPN will slow down your internet connection, this is not true. It depends on the server speeds of the VPN service provider you utilize.
Using a free VPN provider may be the reason for the lagging internet connection. It may be because the VPN provider is far away, thereby leading to a longer time to connect to the service.
However, RitaVPN users reported the ease in using the service for streaming Netflix as well as other geo-restricted streaming sites. This suggests how fast and reliable RitaVPN can be. Using a free low-quality VPN will only make you join the VPN-are-slow group!
4. VPNs are for illegal internet users
Some people will tell you; “I’m not a cybercriminal, why do I need a VPN?”
However, VPNs were not created for thieves and cybercriminals. Although some features of a VPN service may be attractive for criminals, it was not entirely created for them.
As a typical internet user, you will need a VPN service for many reasons. You should be using a VPN service for the encryption of your vital information. Once your data is encrypted, you’ve successfully kept hackers away from it.
VPNs are used for many other reasons, including accessing geo-locked content or bypassing restrictions. However, you shouldn’t be using a VPN for any illegal reasons.
5. VPNs Provide Complete Anonymity and Security
Is there something like complete anonymity? Even if there is, a VPN isn’t the correct toolset to provide that.
A VPN won’t give you an off-jail guarantee if you engage in illegal activity. So, if you plan to use a VPN to defraud businesses or other internet users, you need to reconsider.
Above all, if you think you can do anything because you have a VPN protection, you’re wrong. In addition to using a good VPN provider like RitaVPN, you also need to apply other online privacy tools, techniques, and tips that will ensure your complete online anonymity. This may include using good antivirus software, staying safe whenever connecting to public Wi-Fi, making use of Tor browser, among others.
6. All VPNs are the same
Every VPN service you use advertises military-grade encryption. They advertise hundreds of servers and they all keep a no-logs policy.
With constant study and research, it has been discovered that some things make a VPN service standout such as customer support, compatibility (with digital devices), server speeds, DNS leak protection, etc.
If you happen to get into an issue with your VPN, you’ll need their customer support team to help you. However, if you send a message to your VPN customer support and they manage to reply only one month later. Worse still, they did not reply. Then you should reconsider such a VPN service provider.
Another feature to consider is that all VPN providers promise a no-logs policy. However, except you use a trusted VPN service like RitaVPN, you should have to worry a little about how much of your information, and how long it is kept.
You may also like:
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10 Bad Internet behaviors and how to fix them
How to check if your VPN is leaking your IP address
8 Tips to Keep Your Data Private
Conclusion
Voila! Now you know the common misconceptions about VPNs and you got yourself corrected. However, you need to make the right choice when it comes to opting for a VPN service provider.
To get the most from VPN services, make sure you read through their terms and conditions and privacy policy. Also, use a secure VPN like RitaVPN to make sure you’re encrypted.
Lastly, avoid free VPN services as earlier mentioned, they get more than you get from them!
