As we move into 2020, the threat of cyber-attack is increasing by the day. Attackers are targeting users and their data with phishing attacks, ransomware, and malware infections. In many ways, a cyberwar is underway and protecting yourself online is now essential. That is why you should be using a VPN when you’re online.
Whether you’re browsing for your favorite movie news, hitting social media to chat in a pop culture group, or looking for a casino online to play a superhero slot game, a VPN will keep you secure. Not only will a VPN keep you anonymous and secure online, it will also allow you to access services that are restricted in your area.
What is a VPN?
If you are unfamiliar with a VPN, it is a software solution that provides you with a new (fake) IP address from a proxy server. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows you to easily connect to servers held in other regions and stay secure online.
VPN’s are available as dedicated applications on mobile and PC, while can also be downloaded as browser extensions and add-ons.
Why You Should Use A VPN in 2020
Online Security – All good VPN services keep your data and online activity completely secure. This includes encrypting all data so not even the developer of the VPN service can see what you are doing. This is important in an online climate where bad actors are attempting to access data and even companies like Google are constantly gathering information about your online habits.
With a VPN, the encryption means you become a very difficult target for hackers. Furthermore, you will also be completely protected when you access a public network. For example, if you are in a coffee shop and sign into the public Wi-Fi, a VPN will ensure no-one can access your data.
Stay Anonymous – Because VPNs keep you secure and encrypt your online activity, no-one knows what you are doing online. When you browse the internet with a VPN you are connecting to a proxy server. This means you will not be visible on your usual IP address.
Internet service providers and anyone else can tell your location through an IP address. By connecting through a proxy server, you are essentially invisible online to those parties. It is worth noting that VPN’s do not just work for browsing but can also keep you secure and anonymous on apps, VOIP communication services, and streaming platforms.
Bypass Geo-restrictions – For various reasons, some websites and services are blocked in certain countries. For example, did you know WhatsApp is unavailable in China? One of the best things about VPNs is they allow you to connect to services outside your country. Proxy servers are held around the world. When you connect to a server, you can access all services and apps in that region.
So, if you link to a server in the United States, you can use all apps in the U.S.
Truthfully, this is a major reason why many people use VPNs. For example, if you subscribe to Netflix, you are normally limited to the movie and TV catalog for the country you are located. With a VPN, you can change proxy servers and access the Netflix catalog in any country.
