What can happen if you don’t use one

Whether you’re using an older model or the latest Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, an important tool you need on your device is a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN will protect your browsing habits and internet activity from being accessed by your mobile carrier, ISP or law enforcement. Furthermore, if you’re worried about exposing your personal information when connecting to an insecure network at an airport or coffee shop, VPNs can offer an extra layer of security.

Setting up a free VPN service on your mobile is relatively easy, and the benefits far outweigh the risks of leaving your device exposed to potential threats.

Most people and organizations today use VPNs on their PCs and laptops to protect their data and increase security while browsing the web. Mobile VPN users, on the other hand, use VPNs for a different reason: VPNs were used by 57 percent of mobile users to get better streaming content, compared to 54 percent of PC or laptop users. While this is a compelling argument for using a VPN on mobile, the same level of privacy consideration given to PC web browsing should be given to mobile internet browsing.

There were 4.67 billion active mobile internet users worldwide in 2021, meaning a significant amount of personal data was at risk. Furthermore, Android smartphones account for only 37% of VPN usage. When we use our phones to get online, we’re usually out and about, presumably connected to unsecured networks for internet access. This exposes us to potential hackers who may attempt to intercept data sent from your mobile device over a compromised network.

There is also a risk that if your operating system is not up to date, you are more likely to be targeted by hackers. Malicious hackers may find it difficult to exploit ordinary users of public Wi-Fi, but outdated software can give them the ability to obtain the passwords to your most sensitive accounts, including bank credentials.

VPNs add an extra layer of security to your mobile device. When you connect to a VPN, your web traffic is authenticated with the remote server location. When you browse the web, the data is encrypted based on the security protocol you use, sent to a remote server and then sent out to the public web. Your new IP address is spoofed with that of the VPN provider, masking your true IP address. Encrypted data packets are transmitted between you and the remote VPN server, ensuring your safety and security at all times. This is often referred to as VPN tunneling.

While there are steps you can take to look for information as securely as possible online, a VPN makes it more challenging for you to be tracked based on information like your IP address and helps prevent hackers and third parties from gain access to your sensitive data.

Many of the apps we use on our mobile devices have upped their game when it comes to security and privacy, such as Instagram introducing new privacy-centric features back in 2021. That said, mobile privacy and security threats continue to rise. Phishing attacks via text, also known as smishing, are a way for criminals to gain access to sensitive information by luring individuals to follow links containing malware. Using our mobile phones for tasks such as banking makes security even more important. Here are some threats you should be wary of when using your mobile device.

Data leaks

Before installing a new app on your mobile device, consider privacy and security risks. Almost every app collects data from your device. Names, dates of birth, credit card and bank account information, location tracking, phone numbers, photographs and other personal information may be included. All data can be obtained and used for fraud if the app’s systems are hacked or if a technical error leaves them vulnerable.

Spyware

Be wary of apps that claim to track the whereabouts of your loved ones and children, as they may be spyware meant for intrusive digital surveillance. Criminals can use these apps to read text messages and emails, track the mobile’s whereabouts, listen to nearby conversations and take pictures.

Password

When it comes to practicing greater security, passwords are often overlooked. Many users make mistakes, such as using the same password for multiple accounts. If a hacker obtains your password through a data leak or other means, they will have access to many accounts that contain sensitive personal information.

Trojan horse apps

Some apps are specifically designed to install malware on your device. An app may appear to be beneficial, providing free access to something that should cost money, but it includes a virus. On the other hand, the malware can use the phone’s online banking app to discreetly transfer money to the criminal’s accounts.

A mobile VPN should be used to give you better security and peace of mind when surfing the web or completing sensitive tasks, such as online banking. The risk of not using a VPN on mobile opens up a host of threats from hackers and leaves your data exposed to many devices, including your ISP.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement