VPNs are often touted as tools that guarantee total online anonymity. Many people think that simply turning one on lets you browse without a trace. But the reality is a bit different.
Here’s how they work: a VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the websites you visit. This prevents potential attackers—say, when you connect to public Wi-Fi at airports or hotels—from easily intercepting the data you exchange.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re completely invisible online. If you log into social networks with your personal profile, register on a site with your email, or shop online using your personal information, you’re still leaving digital footprints that clearly identify you. In other words, while a VPN protects your data in transit, it doesn’t erase your digital identity.
Moreover, VPNs don’t automatically shield you from threats like phishing, malware, or targeted cyberattacks. These dangers depend on how you use the web and the sites you visit, not just on the fact that your data is encrypted.
So yes, using a VPN is useful for securing your connection—especially on public networks. But remember, true online security also requires constant vigilance, careful behavior, and a healthy dose of common digital sense.
