A VPN stands for ‘Virtual Private Network’. This is a ‘tunnel’ between you and a server ‘located somewhere in the world’ and your internet traffic will be directed through the tunnel. It essentially keeps you privately connected to whatever server that may be.

A lot of businesses will use a VPN for employees to access work related information. This is normal and very secure.

Now there are a LOT of VPN companies out there. What they are promoting is SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT! Let’s say you want to watch Netflix, but only what is being shown in a different country. This is what you could use a VPN for. It’s designed to HIDE you from the internet, or specially hide your location in the world.

Now it’s been advertised that these companies do not track and record what you’re doing through their VPN service. Don’t believe everything you read! There have already been reports of them doing EXACTLY THAT. Why should you be concerned? Well … a VPN like that is only routing your internet traffic through someone else’s server or computer. Meaning they can capture everything, including your IP address, passwords, credit card info, almost anything!

So… why do so many companies offer VPN services?

One answer would be so they could CAPTURE YOUR INFORMATION! Remember, identity theft is the highest it’s ever been these days. I don’t care who’s VPN is it, I don’t trust any of them, especially the ones offered along with your free anti-virus applications.

Unless you are using a VPN to connect to your work place, we do not recommend users having a VPN application on their computer. It only puts your information at risk. Better to be safe, than sorry.

One note… Kaspersky is a GREAT ANTIVIRUS PROGRAM, but they also offer VPN services. Just keep in mind, they are located in Russia. The big question is how are they handling your private information? Think about it!