12 Aug 9 Myths about VPN and Staying Anonymous
Anonymity on the Internet is much sought after these days and as the demand goes up, companies are coming up every other day promising to offer anonymous browsing. But should Internet users believe all these companies claim to do? Having a clear understanding of VPN services is key in deciding whether or not to choose these services. Here are 9 myths about VPN services.
One can be anonymous when browsing the web
Anonymity is truly a myth when it comes to Internet browsing. There exists at least one piece of information that can be used in differentiating various Internet users. However, this information may not reveal the details of the VPN user.
Even though VPN services do not provide complete anonymity, they go a long way in boosting privacy and security. ‘Anonymity’ should be replaced by ‘privacy’ when talking about VPN services.
Anonymity and privacy are one and the same
VPN services work by trying to get rid of any identifying data, a situation that would lead to true anonymity. However, this is not entirely possible. They end up providing enhanced privacy to the users by limiting access to the personal data of their users. The VPN services protect users from surveillance, either by the government or by other private companies.
VPN ‘anonymous’ services don’t keep data logs
Some VPN providers log user data despite advertising anonymous services. However, limited VPN logging has its advantages in enhancing the user experience of VPN services.
Lack of data logging implies anonymity
Lack of logging by a company is not a guarantee of online anonymity and privacy. Minimal logging is vital to proper maintenance and optimization of networks. All companies carry out some form of logging and use the data to differentiate between users.
Anonymity can be provided even if the VPN provider uses cloud-based VPN servers
Providers that run their own infrastructure find it hard enough to avoid logging completely. The problem is compounded when another provider is running the infrastructure. Most VPN providers rent servers from other companies, and this poses a great threat to the privacy of the VPN users. These other companies might provide information that will lead to the identification of the users.
Anonymity can be provided even if the VPN provider is not the owner of the network
Most VPN providers use networks that are run by other providers. This allows the hosting companies to monitor the traffic. This being a major blow to privacy. VPN providers that do not run their own networks fail to provide the privacy they claim to provide.
VPN logging is generally bad
VPN providers carry out minimal logging as this goes a long way in improving the user experience of their services. The data, however, should only be used in providing better services and should be deleted immediately the intended purpose is achieved.
Privacy companies are not involved in collection or sale of data
There are privacy companies that offer free services and end up collecting information from their users. These companies go on to sell this information or use it to achieve other purposes other than privacy.
All VPN services are basically the same
Various VPN services suffer from different problems. Some suffer from IPv6 leakages with others suffering from DNS vulnerabilities. However, there are other VPNs that use their own networks and servers thus eliminating most of the vulnerabilities suffered by other VPNs.
