Before jumping into a lifetime VPN subscription, it’s important to understand the risks and limitations.
Preventing Access to Your Banking Account
Certain banks limit access to their websites from foreign locations. When using a VPN, your traffic may appear to come from another country, which can lead to your account being blocked.If you prefer using a VPN for added security while banking, choose the same VPN server as your bank's country. Otherwise, you may be unable to log in or complete transactions.
Untrustworthy VPN Providers and Shady Deals
There are plenty of unreliable VPN providers that will store your data or sell it to third parties. Many customers are tempted to go for discounted “lifetime” VPN subscriptions, which let them pay a single amount for continuous access. But in reality, many of these services vanish within a few years.
Untrustworthy providers skimp on quality. You’ll probably experience slower speeds, weak security, and even shutdowns altogether. Some “lifetime” VPNs even let multiple people use the same login information, which is terrible for privacy.
VPN Scams and Data Leaks
Free and low-cost VPNs often come with hidden risks. Some have been caught injecting ads, selling user data, or even exposing browsing activity. In 2023, a well-known free VPN leaked around 360 million lVPN leaked around 360 million logs, including email addresses and payment details.
Poor Customer Support and Service Quality
Some free or cheap VPN services provide no support when problems occur. If servers go down or security features fail, you could be left without help. Test customer support or check the reviews before subscribing. A provider that lacks live chat support or responds after multiple days is a red flag.
Slow Network Traffic
A VPN can slow down your internet connection when overloaded. Sometimes, you’ll notice it right away, and other times, it’s subtle. For example, if you’re downloading a large file, turning off the VPN can improve download speeds. Once you complete downloading, you can reconnect to secure your connection.
Blocking Access to Local Devices or Content
Sometimes, accessing content or devices on your local network requires a direct connection. Certain systems are configured to allow only devices within the same LAN, meaning a VPN could block access. If you can’t reach a shared drive, printer, or internal server, temporarily disabling your VPN should resolve the issue.
How to Know if Your VPN Provider is Trustworthy
Many Australians are using VPNs, but follow these steps to ensure you’re getting the right VPN service:
Verified No-Logging Policy
The most reliable way to determine if a VPN is trustworthy is its no-logs policy, especially if the provider maintains regular independent audits. This policy ensures that the provider doesn’t store records of your online activity or personal data.
A Clear Privacy Policy
A VPN’s privacy policy should clearly state what user data, if any, is collected. It should also detail how the information is stored and handled and whether it is shared with third parties. Additionally, it should provide transparency on any no-logs policy, clarifying whether the provider tracks or retains user activity.
Positive Reviews
Before choosing the right VPN service, take a look at the reviews from other customers. If a provider has mostly positive reviews, it could be a green flag, but don’t fall for it blindly. Check if the reviewers have legit accounts and provide clear descriptions. For example, if you notice mostly vague comments or empty reviews with just 5-star ratings, they might not be real.
A reliable VPN provider has good customer support. Ensure that the VPN service you choose has round-the-clock customer support so that you may ask questions whenever you need them. Most reliable VPN companies will offer troubleshooting tips and tricks, a web chat, an email ticketing system, and helpful videos.
The Bottom Line
A VPN protects your privacy, yet it might not be the perfect fit for every online action. Using a VPN can become problematic when you engage with online banking or become a real problem when you choose unreliable providers. It may end up revealing your sensitive information instead of securing it. However, taking precautions and following the right tips on how to choose a trustworthy service will protect you from future privacy threats.
