A sniffer is a computer program that can sniff out data and make it readable. Usually, hackers use these codes to access encrypted data and steal account information for identity theft. Sometimes, programmers use sniffer programs to check the security of a network. Although almost all data are vulnerable to sniffers, unencrypted data is particularly at risk at all times. Wireless connections are at high risk of sniffer interruption. The use of a VPN or a virtual private network can protect your device and your data from the attack of the sniffers.
Using a VPN can help you by allowing you to communicate privately on an unsecured and unencrypted public network. There are several versions of encryption that these VPN tools provide for data security. This private, controlled network helps you to connect to the internet securely. Virtual private networks are perfect for those, who do not want the telecom companies to pry on their private data exchange. Most importantly, it takes ISP out of the equation since it only shows endless logs of connections to a VPN server. Using it makes it harder for the spurious parties and programs to eavesdrop on your conversations.
Is VPN good enough for protecting your data?
There will be many experts and regular internet users, who will tell you that VPN is ineffective. In truth, VPN is a good start towards protecting your privacy rights. There are more aggressively effective options for protecting one’s privacy. Tor is an anonymous browser that allows people to delve further into the depths of the web without any notifications from the ISP or other parties. However, Tor is neither safe nor recommended for the amateur users. It is more complicated, and it poses more threats in case you do not know about the darker side of the web. It is smarter for all regular internet users to opt for VPN services for their day-to-day privacy needs. VPNs are ideal for connecting your device to an open network like a cafe Wi-Fi or an airport wireless internet.
A virtual private network provides an extra set of protection to the data exchange between your mobile device and an internet gateway. It can prevent the entry of snoopers, sniffers, hackers, and ISPs to your browsing history, downloaded data, browser cache, account information and instant messages. Since it is quite easy to use and cost-effective, VPNs are ideal for almost all internet users.
Most of us don’t like to think that there are people, who would like a go at our private information. The consecutive attacks on WordPress websites and Joomla user sites show how wrong we are about internet security. Some parties would love to access our credit card information and bank account details. Therefore, irrespective of which public network you are trying to connect to, there are hackers and unscrupulous programs that are trying to get a hold of your personal information. There is always a persistent threat of data breach. Unprotected network connections are dangerous and using a VPN significantly lowers the chances of an infection.
Can VPN be a threat to your data privacy?
Today, the web is a confusing place. It really does not help when we understand that VPN companies are in a position to do exactly the things your cable company or ISP is capable of doing. Your private network provider can choose to access your private data and track your activities online if they want to. That means just one thing. The company you choose to be your VPN provider has to be more trustworthy than you internet provider.
Are you sure that your VPN company is the best?
Saying that your VPN Company is 100% trustworthy is a very tricky thing to do. How much of a risk are you taking each day by using a VPN that is cheap, but does not have solid reviews? A new provider can give you budget prices, but are they the best for safeguarding your privacy? Is there a way to ensure that your VPN does not track your activity logs?
A good company does not keep logs of their customer activities, and they are very clear about it in their company policies. There are several companies that make it extremely clear to law enforcement as well that they do not track customer logs. In case any federal agency or law enforcement branch serves them a subpoena, they have no liability to produce the history or track records.
Before you rent a VPN service, check their terms and conditions of service. The presence of a no-log policy is always an assurance. Double check Fastest VPN Guide to learn more about your chosen service. Understanding the quality of service a VPN may or may not provide is very difficult indeed. There are several bogus VPNs that do not provide any service they claim. This is true especially in case of mobile VPNs.
How can you ensure that your VPN really delivers?
To know if your VPN really serves what it claims is next to impossible. Aside from checking the online reviews and testimonials, you can always go for a paid service. This is true for all types of VPN services. Not all free VPN services are bad, but paid services often have more resources to offer. Customers have often experienced better connectivity and enhanced security when they have shifted from a free service to a paid service. Check their independent assessment reputation on trustworthy review sites. There can be some flaws in the services, but their overall data protection services should be good enough for all mobile users.
Do you need a proxy or a VPN?
A proxy server is quite a popular choice for the web users, who are concerned about their data privacy. In several ways, it is similar to VPN, but they are definitely not identical. The former one keeps your internet activity anon. However, it does not create a tunnel of security for the data exchange between your devices and your internet connection. A proxy server can provide you access to locally forbidden websites. For example – you can access Facebook, YouTube or Twitter in case they are restricted.
A proxy server does not provide any encryption to your connection. That automatically makes your data vulnerable to hacking attacks and sniffers. In a way, VPN is a proxy server, but it has added encryption features that can safely keep your data away from the hackers and law enforcement. A VPN scrambles your data and sends it through an impenetrable tunnel. The potential interceptor cannot access the real meaning of the data. It can turn any public network into a private one. You can be sure that a VPN can alter your IP address. That is how VPN users often find it possible to access blocked sites.
If you need only anonymity, you can go with a proxy server. However, if your need is both anonymity and data protection, you might want to go with VPN services. The better option is to go with a proxy server with VPN. This elite combination will keep you anonymous, and it will keep your sensitive data safe.
How to ensure data safety on a public network?
Public Wi-Fi networks are very useful, but at the same time, they can be quite dangerous. While using the public network at an airport or the train station, always exercise caution.
Here are a few ways you can increase your data protection –
- Do not leave your mobile device or laptop on its own while staying connected to public wifi. You would definitely have to be super lucky to see your laptop still there, but you would likely find a keylogger or a similar malware on your device.
- Do not send work emails, emails with bank details or messages with the sensitive material through a public Wi-Fi connection. Wait till you reach office or home.
- In several places, hackers have set up networks that sound legit, but they actively collect user data. So, before you connect to a network, ensure that it is the correct one. If you are unsure, do not go online! Otherwise you can always download and start using VPN which is designed for mobile devices and surf the internet safely.
- You have full reason to see every wifi connection with suspicion. In a place with multiple open networks, ask the employee behind the desk to confirm the name of the network.
- In case you do not have to access a wifi connection at all times, do not leave the wifi option on your phone, tablet or laptop on. This can invite unwanted trouble leading to a breach of security and privacy.
- Never engage in online banking or payments on an open public network. Keep them for the time you get home.
Without a VPN, you will always have to watch over your shoulder to ensure that no one is trying to steal your data or take a look at your browser history. A number of people have to access restricted sites every day for research purposes or work. They find it assuring to have a proxy server and a VPN to watch their back.
