When browsing the Internet we can suffer computer attacks, data theft or simply that our personal information is leaked when visiting a website. To avoid this, we can take into account some tips and one of them is to use a VPN, especially when browsing through public networks. Now, are they always safe? Why can a VPN collect personal data and sell it? In this article we are going to talk about it and explain what to do to prevent it from happening.
Your personal data is worth a lot on the network
The pages we visit may record certain information about users. For example where they are, what type of device they use or how much time they spend on that site. This is used for statistics, in order to also improve the services offered to customers. Whenever we browse the Internet we leave some kind of trace, in one way or another.
When we enter the network through a VPN, it can collect data. You can create a record of the sites visited, the networks we use to browse, our location, etc. With all this they can create a profile, learn more about us, our tastes, interests and in general information that may be of interest to other companies.
With all that VPNs can collect, marketing companies could take advantage. At the end of the day, it is one more way that these types of programs have to profit at the expense of users. They offer a service, they get information, and then that kind of data they can sell to third parties and earn revenue.
Is this dangerous? The truth is that it does not mean that our security is in danger, although our privacy is. At the end of the day it is information that they are sharing with others. They can start offering us advertising for certain services, platforms, etc. They will gradually create a profile.
How to prevent data leaks when using VPN
So what can we do to prevent this from happening? You will find a large number of options available when it comes to VPN. There are both free and paid. Not all of them are going to work equally well, nor are they all going to be equally safe to protect personal data on the network. Our advice is to avoid the ones that are free.
Whenever you are going to install a VPN, make sure that they do not keep records. This type of information can be found on the Internet, by searching forums and specialized pages. There you will also find comments from other users who talk about that particular VPN, whether it works well or not.
It is also important to keep the device protected. These types of applications can take advantage of existing vulnerabilities and bugs. For example, you must have the system updated and correct any type of vulnerability. Also install a good antivirus that protects you against unwanted software.
Ultimately, a VPN can expose your personal data if you don’t take action. It is essential to prevent the VPN from being cut, for example, in addition to ensuring that it does not use personal information that puts our privacy at risk. Therefore, you should always choose well which one to use.
