A few weeks ago, I wrote a blog post about how to install and use a VPN on your iPhone or iPad. In that post, I recommended that you use a specific hostname with your VPN connection so that you can be sure that you’re always connecting to the right VPN. I explained that some VPNs don’t always return the correct hostname when queried, which can result in you connecting to the wrong VPN.
The post went pretty viral, getting over 140,000 views in a couple of days, and it brought up an important point: it’s important to keep your VPN up-to-date with the most recent patches and software releases. Otherwise, you could be in for a lot of trouble if you use outdated software or an unpatched VPN vulnerability.
Let’s say you’re using a VPN service called ZenVPN, which I’ve had good experiences with in the past. When you initially launch the app, you’ll be presented with a pop-up saying that the hostname for your VPN connection has changed and that they’ve given you an updated list of possible hostnames to choose from. Just pick one and hit the ok button to continue using their service.
Keep in mind, though, that not all VPNs are created equal and that some are just more secure and stable than others. While I recommend ZenVPN, for example, if you’re using a less reputable VPN service, you might want to consider another alternative. That’s why it’s important to do some research before you make your decision.
Why do I need a VPN?
Whether you know it or not, your mobile devices are constantly collecting data about your every move and interaction. That data is then sent to servers which analyze it and provide statistical summaries back to you. For example, you might use Google Analytics to track the sites that you visit, your device’s location, the apps you download, and more.
While I’m sure Google Analytics’ intentions are pure, the reality is that the company stands to make money from selling your data so, naturally, they’ll be inclined to try and keep you as a consumer. That’s not the only company that stands to make money from your data, however. Other companies, such as TikTok and Whatsapp, keep a copy of your entire contact list in the cloud, which they then use to target advertisements at you. Or say that you frequently use a public WiFi hotspot at coffee shops and hotels across the world, the data from those connections is what allows them to sell targeted ads and offers to you.
To protect your privacy and ensure that your personal data stays private, you need a VPN. Allowing you to remotely connect to secure servers located all over the world, a VPN will encrypt your data before it’s sent, thus rendering it unusable for anyone else to access. It then goes without saying that if you have valuable information that you don’t want anyone else to have access to, a VPN is a must.
What type of data does a VPN protect me from?
If you’re worried about your personal data, you should be. Since the aforementioned companies have such extensive user bases, getting access to even a tiny bit of personal information, such as your device’s location or the websites you visit can lead to a wealth of information being gathered about you.
One of the best features of a VPN is that it gives you total control over what data you want to protect and what you want to expose to the world. It’s not that difficult to see why. Imagine, for example, that you want to keep your daily activity private but you also don’t want to hide your IP address from your friends and family members. You can use a VPN for your daily activity and then separate out your business and professional contacts from your personal life, ensuring that no matter what, your privacy is always protected.
How can I be sure that I’m always connecting to the right VPN?
One of the biggest worries when it comes to using a VPN is ensuring that you’re always connecting to the right one. If you use the same username and password for multiple accounts, however, this will almost certainly lead to you connecting to the wrong one. The worse case scenario is that you’ll end up giving your personal details to a malicious party, resulting in you being hacked. This could put your entire life in danger. So, it’s important to take some time out and reconfigure your VPN connections so that you can be sure that you’re connecting to the right service.
VPNs should be configured using a strong password that you can remember easily. If you use the same password for all your accounts, it’s very easy for a hacker to gain access to all of them if they discover your password. Additionally, make sure that you’re not logged into any of your accounts when you use a public WiFi hotspot at a coffee shop or a hotel. This is because your personal data can then be gathered by the company providing the WiFi service. You should be aware, however, that if you’re at home and you connect to a VPN server located somewhere else, your personal data may still be gathered. It depends on the specific configuration of the VPN server you’re connecting to. As long as you’re not logged in to any of your accounts when you use a public WiFi hotspot, your personal data should remain private and safe.
What should I look out for when purchasing a VPN?
When shopping for a VPN, it’s important to keep your safety in mind. Not all VPNs are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before you make a purchase decision. Look for reviews online that can give you an idea of how others experience using a particular VPN. You can also contact the company direct to get more information. Doing some research and finding a reputable VPN that meets your needs is essential if you want to enjoy your privacy.