VPNs are solutions to information security issues. These internet technology tools are very useful in protecting users’ information. For this reason, many people are now lax in their security consciousness. However, we want to know that some security risks come with using VPNs.
The world of cybersecurity is increasing in complications by the day. While you can easily find a VPN that provides perfect performance, you should be aware that some come with their own set of potential risks.
It’s important to know these security risks to ensure you are staying as safe as possible online. This blog post will explore six VPN security risks that everyone should be aware of before using any virtual private network.
Security Risks of Using a VPN
There are many security risks associated with using a VPN. One of the most common is that someone using the same VPN service as you can intercept your data. This is because all data sent through a VPN is encrypted, but someone with the right key can still decrypt it.
Additionally, some VPN providers keep logs of their users’ activities, which government agencies or hackers can access. While most paid VPNs claim that they do not have logs, some of them do not mean it. Thus, you should ensure that you are certain that the VPN provider you want to choose does not keep a log of users’ activities. Then again, it would help if you run away from free VPNs, as these servers practice logging more than is necessary.
Insecure Protocol
Another security risk of using a VPN is that some of the protocols that VPN service providers use are insecure. For example, PPTP is a protocol that VPN providers often use, but it is vulnerable to several attacks. In addition, L2TP/IPSec, another common protocol, has also been shown to be insecure. As such, it is important to ensure that your VPN provider uses a secure protocol such as OpenVPN or IKEv2.
Malware and Spyware
One of the security risks associated with using a VPN is that you can download malware or spyware onto your device. This is because some malicious websites will disguise themselves as legitimate VPN providers to trick people into downloading their software.
Once installed, this software can collect your data or infect your device with malware. Then again, it is more dangerous for iOS and Android devices using VPN, as their device asks for permission for many third-party applications and data. Thus, users can intentionally or mistakenly grant access to the roaming malware. In addition, some malware ads spy on users’ activities and details while the unsuspecting user thinks it’s a harmless advert.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are another common security risk that comes with using a VPN. This attack occurs when someone tries to trick you into giving them your personal information, such as your login credentials or credit card number. They may do this by sending you an email that appears to be from your VPN provider but which contains a link to a malicious website.
DNS Leaks
Another security risk of using a VPN is DNS leaks. A DNS leak occurs when your DNS requests do not go through the VPN server but goes directly to your ISP. This can happen if your VPN connection drops or the server is compromised. Thus, we advise that you only use VPN service providers with a kill switch or leak protection. It’s dangerous to settle for fewer VPN servers, as it will expose you to unnecessary internet danger.
IP Address as Exit Nodes
Another security risk with VPN is the issue involving using your IP address as exit nodes. This security risk is very incriminating and can put you in trouble if you are not careful.
Some free VPN service providers use an inefficient approach in creating their VPN service. They build it so that you use volunteer peers and their IP addresses. Thus, when you join such a network, you become an exit node and use others as exit nodes. This type of network is dangerous as other users can use your IP address for illegal activities when they have it as an exit node.
About The Author
Ashley Rosa
Ashley Rosa is a freelance writer and blogger. As writing is her passion that why she loves to write blogs related to the latest trends in technology and sometimes on health-tech as well. She is crazy about food.
