The Internet is teeming with security threats, so a virtual private network (VPN) is a must, especially if you are an active web surfer. But how does a VPN keep you safe online? Can I track you if you use a VPN? Let's figure it out!
How do VPNs work?
VPN services route your Internet traffic through their own servers, not through your Internet service provider's server. When you connect to the VPN server, your IP address changes. Your actual physical location will be replaced with the location of the VPN server. After that, the Internet service provider will not be able to correlate your online activities with your original IP address. Moreover, an encrypted tunnel is created between your device and the Internet, which will prevent your Internet service provider and third parties from tracking activities inside the tunnel.How can I track a user of VPN services?
A VPN does not guarantee complete anonymity. Even paid services can't fully protect you from online surveillance. Let's take a look at the most popular ways to track users:- VPN logs. You can be tracked if you use a VPN, leading logs that record personal information (login details, email address, payment details, connection timestamps, bandwidth data, etc.). To solve this problem, it is enough to use VPN services that use the "no logs" policy.
- Third-party cookies. They are used by advertisers to find out your preferences and adapt ads for you. This is a violation of user privacy. Unfortunately, a VPN can't protect against tracking via cookies.
- Browser fingerprints. Websites use them to find out what browser you are using, what OS is running on your device, what cookies you accept, etc. A VPN cannot prevent websites from tracking you using browser fingerprints.
- Social network. Excessive online sharing also exposes your personal information. VPNs can't hide the personal information you share on social media.
- Malware attack. A VPN cannot protect your privacy and personal data from a hacker attack.
What should I do to limit online surveillance?
A VPN will not stop surveillance by malware, browser fingerprints, or third-party cookies. But you can limit online surveillance. Use VPN services that use the "no logs" policy, study other users ' reviews, and try not to post confidential information on social networks.Frequently Asked Questions
- Can Google track VPN users?
Yes, it can. Surveillance starts when you log in to your Google account. Even if you are connected to a virtual private network, Google can link your actions to your account. To limit Google's surveillance, you can log out of your account, use incognito mode, or try other browsers, such as DuckDuckGo. - Can an Internet service provider track VPN users?
No, it can't, because without knowing your current IP address, the provider does not see your actions on the Internet, but it knows that you are using a VPN. - Can the police track VPN users?
Maybe, but not immediately. The police need to request information about your online activities from Internet service providers or VPN providers. In addition, the police will not track your online activities if you comply with the law. - Can the government track VPN users?
This depends on the quality of the VPN service you are using. If your VPN keeps logs, the government will have no trouble tracking you. Poor encryption can also not protect you from the attention of the authorities. To protect yourself from government surveillance, choose high-quality VPNs that use a "no logs" policy. - Can I be tracked if the VPN goes down?
If your VPN suddenly goes down, you may be tracked. Even the best VPNs are not immune to sudden disconnections, especially in highly censored countries. As soon as this happens, your real IP address will be revealed, and the provider will be able to detect your connection to any sites and find out what you are doing on these sites. To avoid this situation, use a VPN with the kill switch function.