VPN Recommendation
What is a VPN
a tool that creates a private network connection across a public network connection, capable of providing privacy (obfuscation) and security (encryption) while on the public network (internet). VPN does not provide anonymity. Instead, The Onion Routing (TOR) is required to achieve anonymity.
Privacy Policy Comparison
As of 20230319
| Attribute from Privacy Policy | Mullvad VPN | IVPN | Proton VPN | Nord Security | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Data | Payment info, support/problem report info. | Account, payment, usage, crash logs, device perms. | Account creation, support/bug reports, etc. | User-provided data, automatic data, third-party. | |
| Data Retention | 40 days - statutory period, six months for support. | 90 days (mostly); accounting unlinked; logs/perms as needed | Retained for active accounts, deleted when closed. | Varies by data type. | |
| Third-Parties | E-mail service providers, payment suppliers. | Braintree, PayPal | Referrer platforms, routing technology. | Payment processors, support, analytics, marketing. | |
| Transfer to Third Country | No, data stored in EU/EEA. | None (EU Data Protection Directive compliant) | No, data stored in Switzerland. | Yes, with appropriate safeguards from Panama. | |
| Individual Rights | Correction, deletion, limitation, complaint. | Access, rectification, erasure, revoke permissions | Access, edit, delete, export, complaint. | Access, rectification, erasure, etc. | |
| Contact | [email protected] | [email protected] | Route de la Galaise 32, 1228 Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland. | [email protected] | |
| Policy Updates | Yes, updates are published on the website. | Posted on the website, emailed to customers | Yes, notification of changes for enabled users. | Yes, updates communicated on website. | |
| Cash | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | |
| $/Device/Month | $1 | $1.42 | $1 | $2.4 |
Recommended VPN
Here are our top picks for VPNs that prioritize privacy and security:
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MullvadVPN
MullvadVPN is a privacy-focused VPN service with the following features:
- No email association
- No-logging policy and encrypted traffic
- Transparent privacy policy
- Legally proven privacy record
- Accepts multiple payment options, including cash or crypto
- Works with OpenVPN config files for obfuscation and router client
- (14 eyes Jurisdiction)
- MOST trouble using services or getting flagged
- TOR .onion
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iVPN
iVPN is a reliable and privacy-focused VPN service that offers the following features:
- No-logging policy and encrypted traffic
- Transparent privacy policy
- Supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and L2TP/IPSec
- Wide range of servers in over 50 countries
- Accepts multiple payment options, including cash or crypto
- Dedicated IP address available for an additional fee
- Offers a 7-day money-back guarantee
- Works with OpenVPN config files for obfuscation and router client
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ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is another great option with a free tier available that does not require a billing address or phone number. It has the following features:
- Legally proven privacy record
- Combined with ProtonMail
- Free Tier does not always work with the ProtonVPN App, use pre-browsing checks.
- Works with OpenVPN config files for obfuscation and router client
-
NordVPN
NordVPN is the most popular VPN with the following features:
- Proprietary Nordlynx instead of wireguard makes this much more difficult or impossible to configure with many devices and routers
VPN Security Mechanisms
The section discusses the VPN security mechanisms and highlights a potentially sketchy VPN provider - KAPE Technologies. KAPE Technologies, formerly Crossrider, is operated by Teddy Sagi and Koby Menachemi, associated with Unit 8200 of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the Israeli equivalent of the NSA or GCHQ. KAPE Technologies has made several acquisitions in the VPN industry, including: - CyberGhost VPN - Zenmate VPN - Private Internet Access (PIA) - ExpressVPN. - SurfShark
While VPN providers are expected to enhance online security and privacy, KAPE Technologies’ history and acquisitions raise red flags. For instance, CyberGhost VPN was purchased by KAPE Technologies for $10 million in 2017 and Private Internet Access for $127 million in 2019, raising concerns about their privacy policies and data collection practices. In 2021, KAPE Technologies purchased ExpressVPN for $936 million, which could indicate the value of customer data to the company.
Users should exercise caution when selecting a VPN provider and thoroughly research the provider’s ownership, history, and privacy policies. In most situations, STAY Clear of these VPNs. Choosing a VPN with a proven track record of transparency and privacy policies is critical in safeguarding online privacy and security.
References:
Crossrider acquires CyberGhost SRL for $10M What is Kape Technologies? What you need to know about the parent company of CyberGhost VPN Kape Technologies Owns ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, PIA, & Zenmate VPN Review Sites Kape Technologies Agrees to Buy ExpressVPN for $936 Million