Dangers of Free VPN Services, Security and Privacy Risks

Dangers of Free VPN Services

Collection and Sale of User Data

Free VPN services rarely operate “out of altruism.” In most cases, they generate revenue from user data.

What data may be collected

• Browsing history.
• IP address and approximate location.
• Connection time and session duration.
• Device and browser type.

This data may be sold to advertising networks, analytics companies, or third parties.

Logging of User Activity

Unlike paid services with transparent no-logs policies (learn more about what your provider sees when using a VPN), free VPNs often keep detailed activity logs.

Why this is dangerous

• Loss of online anonymity.
• Possibility of log sharing with third parties.
• Risk of data leaks in case of server breaches.

Claims of “complete anonymity” made by such services often do not reflect reality.

Weak Encryption and Security Vulnerabilities

Maintaining a secure VPN infrastructure requires resources. Free services often cut costs on security.

Possible issues

• Use of outdated encryption protocols.
• Errors in VPN client implementation.
• Lack of protection against DNS and IP leaks.

As a result, the VPN may create a false sense of security while failing to actually protect traffic.

Malware and Hidden Activity

Some free VPN clients contain built-in trackers or malicious code.

What may happen in practice

• Injection of advertisements into web pages.
• Installation of additional software without user consent.
• Use of the device in proxy networks or botnets.

In such cases, the user becomes part of someone else’s infrastructure.

Speed Limitations and Instability

Free VPN services almost always have serious technical limitations.

Typical limitations

• Low connection speeds.
• Data caps.
• Frequent connection drops.
• Overloaded servers.

This not only reduces usability but can also lead to data leaks during connection interruptions.

Traffic Manipulation and Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

Man-in-the-middle (MITM) is a type of attack in which an attacker secretly positions themselves between the user and an internet resource. The user believes they are communicating directly with a website or service, while in reality all traffic passes through a third party.

In the context of free VPN services, this “third party” may be:

• The VPN provider itself.
• A compromised VPN server.
• An attacker who has gained access to the VPN infrastructure.

Possible consequences

• Modification of downloaded content.
• Injection of advertising or malicious scripts.
• Interception of unencrypted data.

This is especially dangerous when using financial services or personal accounts.

How to Reduce Risks When Using a VPN

1) Avoid free VPN services

If security and privacy matter, a free VPN is a poor choice. Consider paid services with a transparent reputation instead.

2) Review the privacy policy

Check what data the service collects, where it is stored, and who it may be shared with.

3) Pay attention to the service’s reputation

Before using a VPN, review:

• User reviews.
• Company history.
• Availability of independent security audits.
• Provider jurisdiction.

4) Use a VPN only when necessary

A VPN should not be enabled at all times without a clear reason. Use it consciously and for its intended purpose. If you use a VPN together with antivirus, conflicts may occur — here is how to fix them.

Conclusion

The dangers of free VPN services are often hidden behind promises of anonymity and security. In practice, such services may collect data, weaken protection, and even pose a direct threat to the user’s device. A conscious choice of VPN provider and an understanding of how it works are key factors in maintaining privacy and security online.