A VPN app should provide privacy and security while browsing the Internet – that's a technical stone. However, sometimes it is difficult to see if that privacy is really accessible or not.
It is important to use a VPN from a trusted provider that does not hide your application identity. After all, in the end, you put your trust in that service to keep your work private and out of sight prying.
Recently, VPNpro You researched some free VPN apps from the Google Play store and found a horrible risk that would allow anyone to check which websites you browse and almost all other information that is sent from your Android device to a VPN provider server, including usernames and passwords.
This is because they are badly encrypted and in some cases never encrypted sensitive data. Some have used strong encryption keys that were stored inside the app, meaning that anyone who knows what they're doing can use those keys to extract data and view it.
Some of these programs are still available on Google Play, including:
- TapVPN
- The most accurate VPN
- Korean VPN
- Unblock Unlimited Unlocked VPN Unknown
- Super VPN 2019 USA
It is noted that the worst offender – depending on the number of installations – has now been removed by Google in store. SuperVPN had over 100M downloads, and had a critical error allowing "man-in-the-middle-attack" that could be used to steal your data.
Some apps like Wuma VPN-Pro, VPN Download, and Power VPN Free VPN have been removed recently, but this highlights the issues of Google Play Protect, which should protect your app from malicious apps by testing it before it can download.
However, what the Protocol will do is to notify you when an app is removed from the Google Play Store because it is found that it can access your personal information. So at least you'll get a notice to remove it, and hopefully before any damage happens.
What's being shown is that you shouldn't rely on the app because millions of people have downloaded it.
And beware of false ideas. Deceptive app developers often use malware They are hiding behind and after a fake app review.
And a high five-star review would recommend any app at the top of the charts, as people create and install the app.
These bogus ratings are often available because most reviews use the same phrases and are often written in bad language.
Is it safe to use a free VPN app?
Yes, as long as trusted websites are used. We have a summary of Free VPN apps, all available through Android.
There is a decrease in using a free VPN compared to a paid service (like NordVPN), but in the case of those we recommend, there is no commitment regarding security or privacy.
Original article published on our English website, TechAdvisor UK.