Think your online activity is private? Think again. Whether you’re streaming on your laptop in a hotel room or checking your bank balance on public WiFi, your data could be exposed to prying eyes.
Increasingly, people are realizing that digital security is no longer optional—especially while traveling. That’s why choosing the right VPN is one of the first steps after unboxing your new device. It’s a modern-day must for protecting yourself online at home and abroad.
Here’s a quick guide on why more and more people are turning to VPNs—and how to choose a VPN for travel, privacy, and peace of mind.
Why safety matters more on public WiFi
Public networks in coffee shops, airport lounges, trains, or any other place are breeding grounds for cybercriminals. Whenever you log on without protection, your login details, banking credentials and browsing activity can be easily intercepted. A VPN works by creating an encrypted ‘tunnel’ between your device and the internet – your data is shielded from hackers, eavesdroppers, and even network administrators. The basic rule of thumb is this: if it’s not your home network, it’s not safe without a VPN.
Privacy in the shadow of new surveillance laws
In the US, the Investigatory Powers Act (with its secret Technical Capability Notices on operators), and the Online Safety Act have all vastly expanded government access to the online activity and data of citizens. In addition, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) may be required to collect and store users’ internet histories. A VPN can helps counter this overreach, hiding your browsing activity and giving you back a sense of control over what you do online.
Why users are turning to VPNs
More and more people are using VPNs. According to recent figures, 16% of users now turn to VPNs regularly. The introduction of age-verification laws for adult content and fears about app bans (notably, the possibility of a TikTok ban raised its head this past year) have driven a surge in searches for VPNs (reaching 1566% at one point) as people try to protect their privacy and autonomy.
What to look for in a reliable VPN
Not all VPNs are created equal. Look for one with a nologs policy (it won’t store your activity data) that’s been independently audited, RAMonly servers that don’t use hard drives for storage, strong encryption, and malware protection. A good provider will also support multiple devices across different platforms. And remember – don’t try to save money by going for the cheapest VPN option. Chose the one that actually keeps you safe or you’ll end up paying more money down the road.
Stay one step ahead of digital snoops
Online privacy is no longer a fringe concern that only businesses need to worry about. Think of it as a basic necessity for everyone. Whether you’re shielding yourself from cybercriminals or government snooping, a trustworthy VPN is a powerful tool. With more people turning to VPNs every year, now’s the time to make sure you’re protected too.
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