Can You Get Hacked Through A VPN?

With cyber threats on the rise, you may have googled or researched how you could protect your data online. Chances are, the first thing that would have popped up is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs encrypt your data and hide your IP address so it appears as if you are browsing from a different location.

According to Forbes Advisor, around 49% of the UK population use a VPN and trust that it keeps them safe when using the Internet.

Sure, there’s no disputing the fact that VPNs greatly enhance your privacy online but are they entirely hack-proof? Not quite.

 

 

What Exactly Do VPNs Do?

 

When you use the Internet with no VPN, information gets transferred from your device to your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It will then go from the ISP to whichever website you are using.

The issue with this is that the data runs the risk of being intercepted along the way by third parties. Of course this isn’t always the case, but it’s risky especially if you use an unsecured network or public Wi-Fi.

The VPN’s job is to encrypt that data as its being transmitted as if it were put inside a secure tunnel. This makes it significantly harder for anyone, even your ISP, to access it and see what you’re doing online.

 

Can You Still Get Hacked With A VPN?

 

Theoretically, yes, you could still get hacked even if you are using a VPN. But it all depends on how you are being targeted. Here are a couple of ways that your data could be compromised even with a VPN installed.

 

Your Device Could Become Infected

 

VPNs are usually used together with an antivirus software but they shouldn’t be confused with each other. An antivirus protects your device from different types of malware, which is something a VPN can’t do. To put it simply, a VPN protects your online browsing while an antivirus protects the device itself.

So if you were to unknowingly download a file or install an app with malware on it, your device can become infected. When this happens, hackers will be able to gain access to your passwords and even your microphone and camera.

 

 

Phishing Attacks Can Still Happen

 

Phishing is one of the most common types of hacking because it’s very easy to fall victim to it. An e-mail or link is sent to you by a hacker impersonating someone you know personally or a brand that you trust.

As soon as you click on it, the hacker gets access to all of your information. Remember, a VPN will encrypt your traffic but it can’t stop malicious content being sent to you.

 

Your VPN Provider Could Put You At Risk

 

In reality, you’re only as safe as your VPN provider. If they have weak encryptions, it could lead hackers straight to you through their infrastructure.

Some free VPNs are also known to sell your data to third parties. Since you’re not paying for their service, they have to make a profit in other ways. If you use a reputable provider that has strong privacy policies, you’re less likely to run into issues.

 

Man-In-The-Middle Attacks Are Still Possible

 

If a hacker intercepts your connection before your VPN kicks in, there is a brief window where they would be able to access your information. This typically happens in cases where you connect to a public Wi-Fi network and there is a time frame hackers can work with.

To avoid this from happening, make sure your VPN automatically connects when you join new networks.

 

Should You Still Use A VPN?

 

The short answer is yes absolutely. VPNs are the best way to keep your online activities private and secure but they are just one layer of your cybersecurity. Here’s how you can stay safe online while using a VPN.

Use a reliable provider: Trusted VPN providers will have a no-logs policy to ensure your data isn’t being tracked as well as strong encryptions and a kill switch feature in case they are compromised.

Use an antivirus: Your device needs just as much protection as your online browsing and a combination of the two will give you maximum protection.

Avoid free VPNs: These usually come with some sort of catch like selling your data so investing in a paid plan can go a long way in ensuring your security.

Use Two-Factor Authentication: 2FA adds an extra layer of protection. Even if your passwords are stolen, you still need to approve access from another device.

While 100% security can never be guaranteed, using a VPN and making smart cybersecurity choices can greatly reduce your chances of being hacked or having your data stolen.