The Role of VPNs in Enhancing Online Security and Privacy

• By Aston Rhodes
• 22-08-2024
• Technology

A virtual private network, commonly known as a VPN, is designed to create a secure connection with the outside world. Most often used for secure network access from a personal or corporate device. How does it achieve this? By using encryption to create a secure network over an otherwise unsecured internet infrastructure. Without a key, it is very difficult to decrypt data, and in the case of some advanced encryption standards, it is almost impossible.

Every device that connects to a VPN employs encryption keys. It is embedded during encoding and is needed when decoding information. Even if the data is intercepted on an unsecured network, it will still remain unreadable. In 99.9% of cases, cracking the encryption is a dubious and too expensive business for hackers, so they are simply looking for an easier victim.

Encryption is far from all that a VPN can offer. It helps protect privacy and security, and can also help unblock a geo-restricted resource or even save money. Below is a list of pretty good reasons to turn to a VPN.

Why Use VPN?

A VPN is a tool that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. This is necessary to protect your identity and data on the internet. It hides your real location, IP address, through which a targeted hacker attack on the device can be carried out, and hides data. Among the advantages are:

Enhanced Privacy

A VPN masks your real IP address, making it challenging for anyone to track your online behavior. This added layer of privacy helps keep your personal information safe and secure.

Access to Restricted Content

When a user connects to a remote VPN server, they receive a new IP address. Any service determines location primarily by IP. This means that VPN users can bypass regional restrictions of streaming services and various web resources.

Online Anonymity

VPNs help maintain your anonymity online by hiding your real IP address. This can be crucial for journalists, activists, or anyone looking to circumvent censorship or surveillance.

Technologies Behind VPN for Cyber ​​Defense

No-Log Policy

VPN users trust their data to the provider and responsible providers should not store it. However, the law requires knowing their customers. For this reason, most VPN providers are based in countries with more lenient legislation. No-log VPN policy means that even if requested by law enforcement agencies, the provider will not be able to give out any information about users. It simply does not store it - this is the best approach to security. In this way, users eliminate any risks of data leakage: hacking of VPN servers, leaking or selling of data, requests from law enforcement agencies, etc.

Double VPN

Double VPN is an advanced security feature that enhances your online protection by routing your traffic through two VPN servers instead of just one.

How Double VPN Works:

• First Encryption: Your internet traffic is initially encrypted on your device. The encrypted data is then sent to the first remote VPN server.
• Second Encryption: Upon reaching the first server, your data undergoes a second layer of encryption. The doubly encrypted traffic is then routed to a second VPN server.
• Final Decryption: At the second server, the traffic is decrypted. You securely and privately reach your destination on the internet.
  Threat Protection

Like an antivirus, Threat Protection Pro scans the files you download for malware and removes them if they’re infected. Finally, Threat Protection Pro uses AI-powered phishing detection tools and robust databases to stop you from accidentally entering dangerous websites. It even recognizes zero-day phishing attacks and websites that are likely to scam or trick you.

Meshnet

Meshnet lets you securely access devices from anywhere around the globe. Once configured, Meshnet operates like a secure local area network (LAN) by directly connecting your devices. This setup is ideal for activities requiring high speed, low latency, and robust security—think file sharing, collaborative work, and intense multiplayer gaming.

Ad blocking

While VPNs typically don't block ads, some VPN providers have learned to do so. Such VPNs can block the appearance of advertising windows, banners, embedded advertising on websites and similar manifestations of marketing. They filter data from advertising content, thereby saving us traffic and speeding up page loading. From a security point of view, this approach is also preferable, since advertising often appears due to viruses or carries malware.

Protocols

• OpenVPN: OpenVPN is perhaps the most widely used VPN protocol, utilizing TLS with SSL/TLS for private key exchange. It depends on the OpenSSL crypto library, which includes a collection of secure cryptographic algorithms to enhance tunnel security. OpenVPN operates using two primary network protocols: User Datagram Protocol (UDP): Offers less data verification, making it faster. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP): Involves multiple data verifications, which can slow down data transfer but ensure stable connections, ideal for remote server access.
• L2TP/IPSec: Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) lacks encryption and hence pairs with Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) using the 256-bit AES variant for encryption. L2TP forms the tunnel and manages authentication. It combines the functionalities of the older Layer 2 Forwarding Protocol and Point to Point Tunneling Protocol. While considered secure, L2TP/IPSec’s co-development with the NSA raises concerns about potential backdoors.
• WireGuard: WireGuard is the latest prominent tunneling protocol, providing excellent connection speeds and robust security. It addresses the complexities and potential misconfigurations of IPSec and OpenVPN. With a lean codebase, WireGuard is simple to implement and patch. It utilizes publicly available cryptographic packages like Poly1305 for data authentication and ChaCha20 for encryption. WireGuard also offers tools for developers to integrate custom extensions and scripts.
• SSTP: Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP), derived from PPTP and L2TP, channels PPTP or L2TP traffic through the SSL 3.0 channel. During the data flow, encryption and file integrity checking also occur. The system relies on standard SSL and port 443. This is enough to bypass most of the regional restrictions and firewalls of these services. SSTP employs 2048-bit certificates for authentication and 256-bit SSL cipher for encryption. Today, this is one of the most secure and new VPN protocols.

What Cyber ​​Threats Can a VPN Protect Against?

Cookie Theft

Cookies store your online activity and preferences. When a hacker obtains your session ID, they can duplicate your cookie and hijack your session, even if your credentials are encrypted.

Once a hacker commits cookie theft and hijacks your session, they can access whatever you’re doing online at that moment. Hence, many websites prompt you to log in again after periods of inactivity. Cookie theft is particularly prevalent on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.

Watering Hole Attack

In a Watering Hole attack, hackers use multiple methods to extract confidential information. The name derives from hunters who wait at watering holes for prey. Similarly, attackers infect a frequently visited website with malicious code. When users visit the compromised site, they unwittingly trigger the code, which then steals data. The attacker targets popular sites where potential victims are likely to go.

DNS Spoofing

Also known as DNS cache poisoning, DNS spoofing is a method of penetrating the DNS cache to redirect the user. For example, a user accesses google.com, and a hacker, if he replaces the cache, can make you open a fake google site and ask you to enter your login information. DNS cache is a memory where website addresses are stored. When you revisit a site, the DNS cache recalls the address. DNS spoofing corrupts this memory, leading you to a fraudulent site instead.

Remote Hacking

Cybercriminals often try to remotely infiltrate your device, aiming to seize complete control over your files and data. They employ various strategies to achieve this. One common technique involves deceiving your device into recognizing counterfeit Domain Name System (DNS) traffic.

Phishing

Phishing attacks involve creating fraudulent websites or applications designed to trick you into divulging personal information like passwords and credit card numbers. Attackers send messages with links to these fake sites. If you enter your details, they can steal your information. VPN ad blockers can help by preventing you from accessing these deceptive sites and links, offering an additional layer of protection against phishing attempts.

Threats VPN Doesn't Always Protect Against

Malware and Viruses

Always be cautious when clicking on links or downloading files. A VPN can't shield your devices from malicious software.

Ad Tracking

Advertisers employ various methods—like MAC addresses, device types, Wi-Fi network names, and browser or device fingerprints—to track you. A VPN might not fully prevent this.

Computer and Device Breaches

If your device is compromised or stolen, a VPN won't safeguard the data stored on it.

Online Account Breaches

Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. A VPN can't protect your online accounts if your credentials are leaked.

Data Outside the VPN Tunnel

Information sent or received outside the VPN's secure tunnel—like certain IoT device communications—remains unprotected.

Application-Level Data Leaks

Be aware that some applications might bypass the VPN and leak data, such as DNS queries or actual IP addresses.

VPN Data Breach

A VPN server/provider can also be a focal point for mass data gathering. If you’re a journalist or at risk, consider using the TOR Project.

Main Criteria for Selecting a VPN

When it comes to protecting your online privacy, choosing the right encryption and VPN tools is crucial. Here are the key factors you should consider:

• The Truth About Free VPNs. Free VPNs aren't actually free. Every company needs to generate revenue to cover their costs. Some free VPNs achieve this by displaying ads, while others may sell user data. Additionally, free services often come with slower connection speeds and fewer features.
• Vendor's Security Background. The number of VPN providers is growing at a fairly rapid rate, and many of them lack experience or transparency. It is better to choose a provider with extensive experience in cybersecurity and a clear business model.
• Not All Reviews Are Unbiased. When researching VPN options, you'll find numerous comparisons and reviews online. It's often difficult to distinguish between unbiased and biased reviews, so it's important to critically evaluate the information you find.
• Security Risks of Extensive Server Networks. VPN providers often rent servers worldwide, especially those offering a large number of server options. This expansive network can lead to less control over individual servers, potentially compromising security. Instead of focusing on the number of servers, consider selecting a provider with servers in the locations you actually need.

Other Cyber ​​Defense Tactics

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) uses 2 "factors" to authorize users. One of them is almost always a password, and the second can be different. Somewhere it is biometric authorization, in other places - a one-time password or confirmation by SMS. Usually you can choose the type of authorization.

Don’t Use Unofficial Apps

Unofficial apps may contain malware or try to trick users into exposing their personal data. Avoid these apps as they may put you at risk — and always stick to the official app stores for downloads.

Read Permissions Carefully

Before downloading an app, check what access permissions it needs and ask yourself if they make sense. If a racing game asks you for your mobile contacts, think twice. The more you share with apps, the more vulnerable you become online.

Log Out of Your Devices

Protecting your laptop with a password might seem like a hassle, but if you ever lose that laptop, a password could be the only thing standing between a thief and your files. Take the time to log out after use.

Use Malware Removal Software

Make sure all your devices are equipped with reliable antimalware or antivirus software. Detecting, preventing, and removing malware infections (e.g., worms, viruses, and trojans) will become much easier.

Conclusion

Encryption and VPNs are essential tools for safeguarding your online privacy and security. Meanwhile, VPNs shield your online activities from being monitored or intercepted by third parties.

However, selecting the right encryption and VPN tools is crucial. Consider factors like security, speed, compatibility, user-friendliness, and reputation to make an informed choice. Also, don't overestimate the capabilities of a VPN and ignore other security measures. It makes more sense to take a comprehensive approach to security, which can and should be based on a VPN. Although nothing in this world is guaranteed, we can come closer to the standard of cybersecurity, according to the level of our skills and the number of resources available.