Does a VPN protect you from hackers?

How does a VPN protect you from hackers?

A VPN acts like a secure tunnel for your internet traffic. When you use a VPN, your data is encrypted, your IP (Internet Protocol) address is hidden, and additional security features are applied.

Here are some of the key ways a VPN protects you from hackers:

Encryption

Encryption basically turns information into a secret code. When you connect to the internet through a reliable VPN, all your data gets encrypted. This means that even if a hacker intercepts your data, they won’t be able to read it. Think of it as sending a postcard inside a sealed envelope.

Hiding your IP address

Your IP address is like your online home address, telling websites where to send the information you request. If leaked, it can be the first step toward tracking your activity or even infiltrating your network. A VPN masks your real IP address with one from its server, making it much harder for hackers to target you.

Ad blocking

Many VPNs come with built-in ad blockers. These not only stop annoying ads but also protect you from malicious ones that could lead to phishing sites or malware. It’s like having a bouncer who keeps bad actors away, letting you browse in peace.

Kill switch

A kill switch is a safety feature that cuts your internet connection if your VPN connection drops. This way, you can be sure your data is never exposed, even for a brief moment. It’s like an automatic lock on your door that activates if you accidentally leave it open.

Secure protocols

VPNs use secure protocols that ensure your connection is secure and reliable. When you connect to a VPN, it creates a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server, encrypting all data sent over the internet. This way, anything you do online is protected from hackers, government surveillance, and other third parties.

No-logs policies

No-logs policies mean that the VPN service provider doesn’t keep any records of your online activities. This is crucial for privacy because it ensures that even if someone tried to get information about what you’ve been doing online, there would be nothing to find.

The most common hacks a VPN can protect you against

Using a VPN is a great way to keep your online security on point. It’ll protect you from quite a few common types of cyberattacks, including:

Man-in-the-middle attacks

A man-in-the-middle attack occurs when a hacker gets in between you and the website you’re visiting. With a VPN, your data is encrypted, which makes it really difficult for hackers to read or alter your information, even if they manage to intercept it. It’s like speaking in a coded language that only you and the website understand.

DDoS attacks

A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack involves overwhelming your device or network with traffic, causing it to crash. By masking your IP address, a VPN makes it much harder for attackers to target your specific device and engage in a DDoS attack.

Fake Wi-Fi hotspots

It’s not uncommon for hackers to set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots or target unsecured public networks with the intention of stealing your data. When you connect to these hotspots, a malicious third party can see virtually everything you do online. However, a VPN will encrypt your data and keep it secure on all networks.

Remote hacking

Remote hacking involves unauthorized access to your computer or network from a distant location. A VPN helps by hiding your real IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, making it much harder for hackers to locate and infiltrate your system. 

Session hijacking

Session hijacking happens when a hacker takes over your active web session. This can occur when you’re logged into an online account. A VPN encrypts your data and secures your connection, so having a hacker hijack your session is less likely. It’s like securing your seatbelt to prevent someone from taking over your car.

Cross-site scripting

Cross-site scripting (XSS) is a type of cyberattack where hackers inject malicious scripts into the pages you visit. While a VPN can’t stop the injection itself, it can protect you from hackers by encrypting your traffic and hiding your real IP address, making it harder for hackers to target you.

Digital footprint leaks

Your digital footprint includes all the data you leave behind while browsing the internet, such as cookies and browsing history. Some of this information is sensitive and can be used by hackers to target you. A VPN minimizes your digital footprint and makes it harder for hackers to trace it back to you.

Cyberthreats a VPN can’t protect you against

While VPNs offer significant protection against many online threats, it’s important to understand their limitations.

Here are some cyberthreats that a VPN alone can’t protect you from:

Malware

Malware is a catch-all term for viruses, Trojans, ransomware, and other malicious software that can harm your device or steal your data. A VPN doesn’t scan for or block malware — to protect against it, you need good antivirus software. Luckily, Antivirus comes with our Surfshark One bundle.

Phishing attempts

Phishing attacks are designed to trick you into providing personal information by pretending to be a legitimate entity, such as a bank or social media site. Unfortunately, a VPN won’t protect you from these scams — no software can. It’s essential to stay vigilant and learn how to recognize phishing attempts.

Human error

Human error, such as using weak passwords or clicking on malicious links, remains a significant security risk. Although a VPN secures your connection, it can’t prevent you from making these mistakes. Remember to use strong, unique passwords and be cautious online.

Insider threats

Insider threats come from individuals within an organization who misuse their access to steal sensitive data or cause harm. A VPN can’t prevent trusted individuals from misusing their access — companies need their own security policies and monitoring systems to deal with this risk.

Physical theft of devices

Physically stealing a device is the most straightforward way of accessing your data, and VPNs have no way to protect you against it. Keep your devices within arm’s reach and use features like device encryption and remote wipe to protect your data in case of physical theft.

Does private browsing protect you from hackers?

Private browsing, also known as incognito mode, is a feature offered by most web browsers. It creates a temporary browsing session that deletes your history, cookies, and form data once you close the window.

It’s essential to understand what private browsing can and cannot do to protect you from hackers:

What private browsing does:

• Keeps local activity private: private browsing ensures that other users on the same device can’t see your browsing history, cookies, or search queries after you close the session. This is useful for shopping for a surprise gift or when using a public computer;
• Prevents cookie tracking: websites can’t track your activity across multiple sessions using cookies. This means your previous searches and visits won’t influence what ads or content you see.

What private browsing doesn’t do:

• It doesn’t hide your IP address: your IP address is still visible to websites, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and potential hackers. This means your online activities can still be easily tracked and monitored;
• It doesn’t encrypt your data: unlike a VPN, private browsing doesn’t encrypt your internet traffic. Your data is still vulnerable to interception by hackers, especially on unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Private browsing vs. VPN protection

• Scope of privacy: private browsing is mainly focused on keeping your local browsing private from other users on the same device. A VPN, on the other hand, provides broader privacy by hiding your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, protecting you from external surveillance and hackers;
• Data security: a VPN offers a higher level of security by encrypting your data, making it inaccessible to hackers even if intercepted. Private browsing doesn’t provide any additional data security;
• Tracking prevention: while private browsing prevents cookie-based tracking within a session, it doesn’t stop other forms of tracking by your ISP, websites, or malicious actors. A VPN hides your online activities from these trackers, offering more comprehensive protection.

How to find a secure VPN

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose a VPN that meets your security needs:

• Research and reviews: start by reading reviews and researching different VPN providers. Look for user reviews, expert opinions, and independent tests;
• Security features: check that the VPN uses advanced encryption standards and verify that it enforces a strict no-logs policy, meaning the provider doesn’t store any records of your online activities. Ensure the VPN includes a kill switch, which automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN connection fails, preventing any accidental data exposure. 
• Privacy policies: make sure the VPN provider’s privacy policy clearly states that no logs are kept and that your data is not shared with third parties. A transparent privacy policy is a good indicator of a trustworthy VPN provider;
• Jurisdiction: some countries have data retention laws that could compromise your privacy. VPNs based in privacy-friendly countries like the Netherlands or the British Virgin Islands are preferable;
• Performance and speed: many VPN providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees. Take advantage of these offers to test the VPN’s speed and reliability, especially if you plan to use it for streaming or gaming;
• Customer support: look for VPNs that offer 24/7 support through live chat, email, or phone. Reliable customer service can help resolve any issues you might encounter;
• Compatibility and ease of use: ensure the VPN service offers easy-to-use apps for your phone, computer, and other devices. A user-friendly interface makes it easier to manage your VPN settings and ensure you’re protected;
• Price and payment options: while free VPNs can be tempting, they often come with significant privacy and security risks. Paid VPNs usually offer better protection and features. Look for payment options that suit you, including cryptocurrency, if privacy is a major concern;
• Additional features: some VPNs offer extra features that can enhance your security and privacy. These include double VPN (routing your traffic through multiple VPN servers), ad and tracker blocking, or split tunneling (choosing which apps or websites use your regular connection instead of the VPN).

Free vs. paid VPNs

While the idea of a free VPN might be appealing, free VPN services often come with significant drawbacks that can compromise your privacy and security:

• Data logging and selling: many free VPNs make money by logging and selling your browsing data to third parties. This completely undermines the purpose of using a VPN for privacy;
• Limited features and bandwidth: free VPNs typically offer limited features and bandwidth, which can result in slower speeds and less comprehensive protection;
• Weak security protocols: free VPNs may use outdated or weak encryption methods, leaving your data vulnerable to hackers;
• Intrusive ads: free VPNs often rely on ads for revenue, which can be annoying and sometimes even malicious;
• Lack of customer support: free services usually don’t offer robust customer support — if you encounter problems, you’re on your own.

In comparison, paid VPNs offer a significantly more reliable and secure experience:

• Strong privacy policies: reputable paid VPNs have strict no-logs policies and are transparent about how they handle your data;
• Advanced security features: paid VPNs offer strong encryption, secure protocols, kill switches, and other advanced security features to protect your data.
• Better performance: paid VPNs generally provide faster speeds and more reliable connections, ensuring a smoother browsing experience;
• Comprehensive support: paid VPN services usually offer better customer support, helping you resolve any issues quickly and effectively.

What else can I do to protect myself against hackers?

In addition to using a VPN, there are a few other things you can do to enhance your online security and protect yourself against hackers:

Use a password manager

Password managers help you create and store strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. This prevents hackers from gaining access to multiple accounts through password reuse.

Enable two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. This could be a code sent to your phone or an app-based verification.

Don’t use unofficial apps

Unofficial or pirated apps often come with hidden malware or security vulnerabilities. Always download apps from official sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. This guarantees that the apps you install have been vetted for security.

Read permissions carefully

When installing apps, carefully read the permissions they request. Avoid apps that ask for access to more information than is necessary for them to function. A simple flashlight app shouldn’t need access to your contacts or location, for instance.

Keep all your software up to date

Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities. Regularly updating your operating system, apps, and other software helps protect you from the latest online threats. Conversely, ignoring updates can leave your devices exposed to malware and cyberattacks.

Secure your router

Change your router’s default password and ensure it uses WPA3 encryption for the highest level of security. Disable remote management and regularly update your router’s firmware. A secure router acts as your home network’s first line of defense.

Log out of your devices

Always log out of websites and devices when you’re finished using them, especially on shared or public computers. Doing so ensures your personal information stays safe and prevents unauthorized access to your accounts.

Use malware removal software

Malware removal software scans your internet-connected device for malicious programs and removes them. This is crucial for keeping your system clean and preventing hackers from exploiting malware.

Install antivirus software

Antivirus software protects your devices from viruses and other cybersecurity threats. It actively monitors your system for suspicious activity and blocks potential risks. You can try Surfshark Antivirus that comes with the Surfshark One bundle.

Invest in ad blockers

Ad blockers do more than just eliminate annoying ads — they also protect you from malicious ones. Some ads can lead to phishing sites or malware. Plus, filtering out these threats can help web pages load faster.

Use Surfshark Alternative ID

Surfshark’s Alternative ID feature helps protect your online identity by providing a disposable email address and phone number. This keeps your real contact information private, reducing the risk of identity theft and spam.

Use Incogni

Incogni helps you manage and remove your personal data from data brokers. By reducing the amount of personal information available online, you lower the risk of being targeted by hackers. You can get Incogni with Surfshark, which we include in our One+ bundle.

Regularly back up your data

It’s a good idea to regularly back up your data so you can recover your information in case of a ransomware attack or hardware failure. Use cloud services or external hard drives to keep copies of essential files.

Educate yourself about phishing tactics

Understanding how phishing works and recognizing suspicious emails, messages, or websites is crucial to avoiding scams. Stay informed about the latest phishing tactics, and be cautious when providing personal information online.

Conclusion – for maximum security, add smart practices to your VPN mix

While a VPN is a great way to keep your online security up to date, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. You also need to adopt a set of smart practices to cover the security gaps a VPN can’t fill.

As cyberthreats continue to evolve, it’s important to stay proactive about cybersecurity. Using the right tools, like a secure VPN and antivirus software, along with smart online practices, will help you stay one step ahead of hackers and protect your digital life now and in the future.

FAQ

Can you be hacked while using a VPN?

While a VPN significantly enhances your security, it doesn’t make you invincible. Hackers can still target you through methods like phishing, malware, or exploiting software vulnerabilities.

What doesn’t a VPN protect you from?

A VPN doesn’t protect you from malware, phishing attempts, human error, insider threats, or the physical theft of your devices. It primarily secures your internet connection and online privacy.

Does a VPN protect against man-in-the-middle attacks?

Yes, a VPN protects against man-in-the-middle attacks by encrypting your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept and read your data.

Will a VPN stop phishing?

No, a VPN cannot stop phishing. Phishing relies on tricking you into giving away personal information, which a VPN cannot prevent.

Does a VPN make your phone untraceable?

A VPN hides your real IP address, making it harder to trace your online activities. However, it doesn’t make your phone entirely untraceable. It can still be tracked through other methods, like GPS and cell tower data.

Can a VPN be hacked?

While it’s rare and difficult, a VPN can potentially be hacked, especially if it uses weak encryption or has vulnerabilities. Choosing a reputable VPN provider with strong security measures is crucial.

Does a VPN protect me from hackers on public Wi-Fi?

Yes, a VPN is particularly effective on public, free Wi-Fi. It encrypts your data and protects it from hackers trying to intercept your connection.

Does a VPN protect me from hackers at home?

A VPN protects your online activities at home by encrypting your data and hiding your IP address, but it doesn’t protect against threats already on your network, like malware. Combining a VPN with other security measures is essential for comprehensive protection.