Few digital services that demand more trust than virtual private networks (VPNs). When you use a VPN, you put everything you do online through its servers. Every website you visit, every app you open, and every message you send goes through their encrypted tunnel, effectively handing the provider the keys to your online activity.
Used properly, though, the best VPNs can be invaluable. They encrypt your traffic so your internet provider (or anyone sharing your network) is unable to see what you’re doing, and they hide your IP address to make it harder for advertisers and data brokers to track you. They also help you stay connected to the same streaming services you use at home while travelling abroad. If picked correctly, a VPN is still one of the most effective tools for maintaining privacy online.
