Does a VPN Provide Virus Protection?
VPNs, or virtual private networks, have become an increasingly popular way to protect your privacy and security online. But do they also offer protection from viruses?
This article will answer those questions and more, as well as explore the pros and cons of using VPNs for virus protection. We'll also look at some general cybersecurity steps you can take to help keep your devices safe from harm.
VPNs and their role in virus protection
A VPN, or virtual private network, is a secure encryption tunnel between your device and a VPN server. VPNs are used to protect your data and privacy when connecting to the internet, and they can also be used to bypass censorship and geo-restrictions. VPNs can be an important tool for protecting yourself against viruses and other cybersecurity threats, but they cannot protect you by themselves.
When you connect to the internet through a VPN, all of your traffic is routed through the VPN server. This makes it more difficult for others to track your online activity, but a VPN cannot prevent you from sophisticated attacks such as malware or phishing scams. Furthermore, it is unable to encrypt your email address and text messages, which are often the root of security breaches.
If your computer falls victim to a virus, trojan, spyware, or any other malicious entity, even the best VPN service provider can't protect you. These types of malware can put your personal information at risk and allow cybercriminals to access sensitive information such as finances, social security information, and vital passwords.
They could also damage devices with your files stored on them, manipulate social media accounts linked to yours, and send out spam messages using hijacked phone numbers registered under your name. Both individuals and businesses are at risk of these types of cyber-attacks.
Antivirus programs protect your devices from malicious code by filtering incoming traffic, messages, and file downloads. If it detects a threat, the program will automatically block it. Antivirus programs regularly update to ensure they detect the latest threats.
Hackers are always developing new strategies and improving their technology, so it's crucial that your security tools are up to date as well. The best antivirus programs will work with your firewall and other security tools for comprehensive protection.
If you decide to use a VPN, please use it in combination with a top-notch antivirus program to protect your entire system. By utilizing both a VPN and antivirus, you are providing multi-layered protection for yourself. In fact, many well-known antivirus providers have started offering VPNs to their customers as a comprehensive security solution.
Pros and Cons of using a VPN
Pros
While not recommended to be used alone in your cybersecurity plan, there are some undeniable benefits that coincide with a VPN.
1. A VPN creates an encrypted connection, so your personal data is hidden from prying eyes. This is important because many hackers will target unsuspecting users and look through their online data to find information like passwords or credit card numbers. With more and more people managing their shopping and finances online, it's essential to have a secure connection.
Your internet connection is significantly more vulnerable when using public Wi-Fi networks in places such as airports or local coffee shops. Other people connected to the same network could exploit its vulnerabilities to gain access to your sensitive information. Using a VPN provides additional security measures in this type of situation.
2. By utilizing a VPN, you can prevent websites and your internet service provider from accessing sensitive personal data. Many times, these sites will try to access your browsing history or location in order to serve more personalized ads. However, by using a VPN, you can sever this connection and maintain your privacy.
3. Moreover, you can utilize VPNs to access geo-blocked websites. For example, plenty of streaming sites are only accessible in specific parts of the world. Luckily, one of the easiest ways to get around this is by using a VPN so that you can consume the content you're interested in.
Cons
1. Many free and low-cost VPNs log your browsing information and sell it to third parties, which is mainly for advertising but can still present security risks. In fact, this practice is more common than most people realize. A study done for the IMC found that a large portion of VPN apps use third party trackers.
2. While it is legal for VPN providers to give government agencies access to their user's internet activity, this practice is not ideal for people who value privacy. This is why you should always read the privacy policy before signing up for any type of service.
3. Some VPNs can't manage high speeds. If your VPN isn't cut out for the browser you're doing, it'll drag down your speed. Additionally, many free VPNs limit the number of devices allowed at one time making it difficult for companies who have to connect multiple machines.
Does a VPN actually provide any virus protection?
Although a VPN does not guarantee that you will never get a virus, it can help reduce your risk. Stealing data from a person who uses a VPN is much more challenging for hackers than stealing information from someone who doesn't have one because the connection is encrypted. Since it's more difficult, many criminals instead choose to target individuals without a VPN.
By keeping your personal information to yourself, you make it more difficult for cybercriminals to run the ransomware or phishing scams that usually result in viruses. It's not impossible for them to get what they want without your help, but it is less likely.
Steps to Prevent Viruses and Malware
Although no one wants to be a victim of cybercrime, you may eventually suffer from an attack. If that happens, it is crucial to limit the damage done. Whether you are an individual or part of a large business, and whether you have weak security or robust protection in place, taking the following steps will help secure your devices:
1. Have cybersecurity training for the entire team
If all employees are aware of what to look for, it becomes much easier to avoid malware and viruses altogether. This education can help every part of the company in spotting potential threats and identifying different types of cyber threats.
2. Keep in close contact with your IT team or MSP partner
If an attack does manage to slip through, a speedy response from your cybersecurity team can make all the difference. They should of course be taking proactive steps to prevent any attacks in the first place, but it's always better to have them on hand just in case.
3. Be careful what websites you visit and what files you download
Only explore websites that are reputable, and only download files from reliable sources. Never open email attachments unless you can confirm they're secure, and never install software updates or plugins from untrustworthy sources.
4. Keep your antivirus software up to date and running
Antivirus software is crucial in keeping your computer free of malware. It does this by scanning for potential threats and then either isolating or deleting the files that contain malware. Many antivirus programs also come with a firewall feature to additionally protect your computer from any unauthorized access attempts.
5. Back up your data regularly
If your computer unfortunately becomes infected with malware, you can minimize the damage by having a backup of your data. An online backup service is one option to consider; these services store your data online so you can access it from anywhere.
Another viable solution is utilizing a secure portable hard drive or USB drive for backing-up purposes too. Before plugging either device into your computer, double-check that it's completely safe. By taking these precautions, you'll have a recent copy of your emergency in case...of an emergency!
6. Use a firewall
A firewall is a program or hardware device that helps protect your computer from malware and other online threats by blocking unauthorized access to your computer.
7. Keep your operating system and other software up to date
By installing software updates as soon as they become available, you can help protect your computer from attacks. In most cases, these security patches are found in the settings or preferences menu of your software.
8. Use strong passwords
By using different passwords or passphrases for all accounts and frequently changing them, you'll be better protected against malware and viruses accessing your computer or device.
Though no individual tip can protect against all types of cyber threats, combining various tips together will create a stronger line of defense for any person or business.
Final Thoughts
While VPNs can provide some benefits to you, they also come with some risks. If you are looking to invest in a VPN, please do your research. Before purchasing, make sure it is the right fit for your needs, and never use it as the only defense against viruses and malware. If you have further questions about your cyber security needs, please contact us at Kotman Technology.
Kotman Technology has been delivering comprehensive technology solutions to clients in California and Michigan for nearly two decades. We pride ourselves on being the last technology partner you'll ever need. Contact us today to experience the Kotman Difference.