Why Using The Wrong VPN Spells Danger
It sounds a little odd but it’s better you don’t use a VPN, rather than using the wrong one. The consequences could be dangerous.
When most of us speak of cybersecurity, we tend to think that we’re doing it all according to the book and maintaining our security at the highest levels. What we don’t realize is that there could still be a chance of our exposing ourselves to a huge amount of risk.
In other words, using the incorrect VPN could simply throw your cybersecurity/data protection badly out of gear than not using a protection plan at all. Your company and you could simply end up in the doldrums if you haven’t done your due diligence on the issue.
Most Common Mistakes Regarding Online Security
Even though the majority of people understand that ignoring online risks is foolish, they often end up neglecting their security actually.
They usually have a fundamental security system going but again fail to upgrade their necessary software, choose a reliable VPN provider, set up the appropriate firewalls, and secure the access to their respective networks.
This undoubtedly leads to creating open holes in your cybersecurity system. Malware and hackers can have a field day while you end up at the wrong side of the pole.
Others may implement security measures but don’t keep sufficient data backup plans. Then there are those who overlook risks associated with cloud-based services that come without protection or use public Wi-Fi that’s devoid of encryption.
So if you fall in any of the aforementioned categories, you’re actually setting yourself up for trouble. What’s more, your organization could face much more severe flak and end up with irreparable damage.
The crux of the matter, however, is that an organization or individual may choose a VPN in good faith; with the belief that a foolproof encryption process has been put in place to diligently and safely protect their online security and data. But what if the data gets exposed to greater risks if a shady VPN services provider is being used?
Choosing a reliable VPN to Cut Risk
All VPNs aren’t created equal. That’s why selecting a VPN service provider without vetting it carefully could lead to disaster.
You could simply open your doors to hackers or download malware accidentally in the process. Therefore, the four following critical protocols need to be observed and complied with to choose the right VPN provider:
- Fix your standards: Select only that provider which produces convincing evidence that it adheres to your industry standards. Look at peer reviews received by all VPNs that you shortlist. Make sure that the VPN you use has a zero-logs policy.
- Make sure to check out their reputation: Never open the window for a VPN you haven’t ever heard about or don’t personally know. This calls for doing extensive homework, which includes getting reliable recommendations from those who’ve used their services earlier. Make use of the services that offer 24/7 professional customer support.
- Insist on full-scale implementation: A VPN service provider which covers all the bases should be the one to select. Avoid those offering last-mile encryption only or partial services and which leave gaps in your security protocol.
- Take costs into consideration: Often anything that comes for “free” could make you end up with the worst deal. In most cases, VPN providers offering free service tend to recoup their costs by resorting to unfair means. They usually sell private and sensitive data. This can be highly detrimental to your business. Rather, search out low-cost providers who will guarantee your safety against costly data theft and loss.
Dangers of Using the Wrong VPN
Every online security measure and data protection system isn’t on par with others. While doing nothing amounts to inviting terrible risks, using the wrong protection, on the other hand, may still be worse. You end up opening the proverbial and infamous Pandora’s Box and this certainly won’t work to your benefit.
Always do your homework before signing up with a VPN service provider. Just because some VPNs advertise themselves as free doesn’t mean you should give them a go. As with everything else in life, you get what you pay for.