TITLE: Free VPN Risks: 12% of UK Users Still Choose Unsafe Options
Millions Opt for Free VPNs Despite Security Dangers
A recent survey reveals that millions of British internet users continue to choose free VPN services over paid alternatives, potentially exposing themselves to significant privacy and security risks. The study, conducted in August, found that a concerning 12% of UK VPN users rely on free services, likely underestimating the dangers involved.
Growing Awareness Isn’t Enough to Change Behavior
While cybersecurity awareness among UK users has been increasing—even surpassing levels in the United States, Canada, and Australia—a consistent portion of the population continues to select free VPN options. This suggests that basic knowledge about online security alone isn’t sufficient to deter people from using potentially risky services.
Marijus Briedis, CTO of NordVPN, explains this phenomenon: “People understand security intuitively. However, online threats often feel abstract until one becomes a victim.” He believes economic factors play a significant role in this decision-making process, with inexperienced users seeking quick solutions to immediate privacy concerns without fully considering the long-term consequences.
The Hidden Costs of “Free” VPN Services
What exactly are the risks that free VPN users face? Beyond the obvious limitations like reduced performance and functionality, many free VPN services engage in practices that directly compromise user privacy:
- Data logging and selling: Many free VPNs track and record browsing history
- Bandwidth reselling: Some services sell user bandwidth to third parties
- Tracking code injection: Inserting tracking codes that monitor user activity
- Weak encryption: Inadequate security protocols that leave users vulnerable
Briedis emphasizes that users often mistakenly assume free VPNs offer the same core protection as premium services, just with advertisements. “The reality is that they often provide inadequate security while actively compromising privacy,” he notes.
International Concerns and App Store Misinformation
Recent investigations have revealed additional concerns, including free VPNs with undisclosed ties to countries known for questionable data collection practices. Some services have been found to have connections with both Russia and China, raising questions about data sovereignty and government access to user information.
The problem is exacerbated by app store rating systems that prioritize speed and ease of use over privacy practices. This often misleads users into believing that highly-rated free VPNs have proven their trustworthiness, when in reality, privacy violations typically occur invisibly—users don’t see their data being collected or sold.
When Are Free VPNs Acceptable?
Not all free VPN services should be automatically dismissed. Some legitimate free options exist, typically supported by ideological principles, community funding, or as part of larger business models. ProtonVPN, for example, represents one of the safer free alternatives available.
However, these remain the exception rather than the rule. As Briedis points out, managing a large-scale consumer VPN service requires significant infrastructure investment, bandwidth costs, and ongoing security maintenance. When you encounter “free and unlimited” claims in app stores, the economic reality dictates that revenue must come from somewhere—usually through data monetization, bandwidth reselling, or aggressive upselling tactics.
Making an Informed Decision
Before choosing any VPN service, particularly free options, Briedis recommends asking critical questions:
- Who owns this service?
- How are the servers and infrastructure funded?
- Are their no-logging claims verified by independent auditors?
If these answers aren’t readily available or transparent, users should assume their personal data will become the price they pay for the “free” service. As highlighted in the original investigation, the irony remains that what appears to be free might ultimately become the most expensive digital purchase users never realized they were making.
This analysis builds upon recent research into free VPN usage patterns and risks, drawing from comprehensive survey data and expert insights.
