Besides the perks we’ve enjoyed ever since the inception of internet connectivity, there has been a downside to it, either from the government, hackers, advertisers, or scams. This is evident from the number of complaints filed to the FBI’s internet crime complaint center in 2020, which saw a record of high financial losses of up to $4.2 billion.
Statistical data on the cyberattacks on the internet seems not to be slowing down and your online safety is dependent on the practices you implement to curtail the ever-growing data compromise relayed on the world wide web.
One of the easiest and safest ways to access the internet is with a VPN, which provides an extra layer of security from prying eyes.
How Does Internet Connectivity Work?
Internet access is provided for by companies named as ISPs (Internet Service Providers) through various avenues; digital subscriber line or cable. Now, each time you access the internet you are assigned an IP address that is able to identify your device.
Through this line of access, your internet activity can be monitored and you have no mandate to control what an ISP does with your browsing history. By using simple tools, hackers are able to trace your IP address and even reveal your identity, which they can decide to either attack or impersonate you.
Here lies your solution; use a VPN.
What Is A VPN?
Using a Virtual Private Network is the safest way to browse the internet. A VPN encrypts your data by masking your IP address to maintain some level of privacy that will wade off trackers from either governmental agencies or advertising agencies. Either you can sign up for a VPN service or set up your own VPN.
Why It’s Important To Use A VPN?
The exposure of your data is automated when you visit a website, giving anyone with the technological know-how access to your information. Here are the reasons you wouldn’t want to surf without a VPN, and you can also check clearvpn review to get more information.
Anonymity
As mentioned above, your IP address is able to leave traces on each website you’ve visited, which can then be traced back to you. Meaning you’ll have no control of what that information may be used for; a VPN is able to protect your historical data by hiding your digital footprint and making your access anonymous.
Security on a public and private network
You’re likely to experience data breaches when you access the internet through a public network, especially Wi-Fi connectivity. There is a vast threat associated with such connection with hackers and individuals with malicious intent lurking there to infringe on your privacy. A VPN tackles all that by encrypting your information.
Access to blocked content
Over the years, government agencies or huge corporations have put security measures that prohibit access to their content. This can work against you if you travel a lot and don’t have the privilege to access the content you so desire. Using VPN services allows you to circumvent those network barriers and browse with ease.
Secure data sharing
The current workforce shift from the brick and mortar office premises to a home-based working environment to adhere to covid safety protocols brings about the challenge of securely sharing work files minus the prying eyes. This can be achieved through VPN use, where you’d use an encrypted method to access the company’s network, hence reducing data leakage risks.
Privacy
The use of VPN should be debunked from the common notion that anyone who uses a VPN is hiding something or is doing something illegal. This is far from the truth, your internet privacy and security begins with you. You wouldn’t want to lament about the slow and tenuous process of vindicating criminal acts meted upon you. Take the prerogative to secure yourself from the financial and social threats lurking on the world wide web.
Put Your Internet Safety First
Just like you wouldn’t go to an unsafe neighborhood without the prerequisite safety measures, your online safety shouldn’t be any different. Learn how to set up your own home VPN to maintain a safe and secure digital environment for you and your family.
References;
Infographic: Americans Are Losing Billions Due To Internet Crime
Infographic: Americans Are Losing Billions Due To Internet Crime (2021). Available at: https://www.statista.com/chart/20845/financial-losses-suffered-by-victims-of-internet-crimes/ (Accessed: 8 October 2021).
What Do Internet Service Providers Do With My Browsing History?
What Do Internet Service Providers Do With My Browsing History? (2020). Available at: https://www.thewowstyle.com/what-do-internet-service-providers-do-with-my-browsing-history/ (Accessed: 8 October 2021).
Protecting Your Online Privacy – Valuable Tips About Cybersecurity
Protecting Your Online Privacy – Valuable Tips About Cybersecurity (2020). Available at: https://www.thewowstyle.com/protecting-your-online-privacy-valuable-tips-about-cybersecurity/ (Accessed: 8 October 2021).
VPN Guide: How to set up your own VPN (2021) | EFANI
VPN Guide: How to set up your own VPN (2021) | EFANI (2021). Available at: https://www.efani.com/blog/how-to-set-up-your-own-home-vpn/ (Accessed: 8 October 2021).