"VPN ads are everywhere now. It feels like you can't even open YouTube or listen to a podcast without hearing that "hackers" are waiting to steal your data and that a VPN will solve everything. While VPNs can be useful, they're privacy tools, not security apps. A virtual private network can hide your traffic, but it probably won't stop you from getting hacked."
"VPN ads didn't necessarily get big because people began caring more about privacy. They got big because selling fear works. The more panic they can create, the better the pitch will sound to the person listening, watching or reading. Influencers can make money by telling their audiences the internet is dangerous, then pointing to a sponsor that claims to fix it."
A virtual private network encrypts web traffic between a device and a remote server and hides visited sites and app usage from ISPs or network administrators. VPNs improve privacy on untrusted networks and can mask location, but they do not provide true anonymity or comprehensive security. A VPN will not stop phishing attacks, prevent malware infections, or protect accounts after login. Marketing often exaggerates capabilities by selling fear, and influencers may promote VPNs for sponsorship income. Research shows such ads can increase fear rather than user understanding. Users should evaluate threat models and keep strong security hygiene alongside VPN use.
Read at CNET
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