Over the past two decades, the internet has transformed from a novelty to part of the fabric of society, with people using it for everything from socializing to banking to booking medical appointments.
However, while it offers many conveniences, the internet also comes with certain risks, from cybercrime to online censorship.
We’re going to dig into the realm of Safe Browsing, examine what it entails and why it matters. We’ll also take a look at why VPNs are a key feature of modern safe browsing and explain why people use them, and how to choose one.
What is Safe Browsing?
Safe Browsing refers to browsing the internet without the constant threat of malware infections, phishing attacks, and other security threats. It is the practice of using secure browsers and being mindful of the websites we visit. Safe Browsing ensures that we are less likely to be victimized by cybercriminals or suffer a malware infection on our devices.
Safe Browsing is not a new concept, and savvy users have been taking precautions since the early days of the internet.
However, cybercrime is a rapidly evolving industry, and attackers are finding increasingly sophisticated ways to exploit vulnerabilities. Therefore, keeping our activities secure requires a multi-layered approach that utilizes both technological solutions and vigilance.
Why do people use VPNs?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a tool that creates a secure, private connection between a device and the internet. A VPN encrypts the data that the device sends and receives, thus protecting it from prying eyes.
According to Statista, by 2022, the number of VPN users worldwide is projected to reach 42.1 million out of the total 4.54 billion internet users globally.
A whopping 41% of internet users worldwide say they currently use a VPN or are considering doing so in the near future, according to a survey from Clario, a cybersecurity company.
The reasons people turn to VPNs vary, but they typically fall into the following categories:
- Privacy: One of the primary reasons people use VPNs is to safeguard their online privacy. When someone visits a website, their IP address is shared with that site, and the site can use that information to track the user’s online activity. A VPN hides the user’s true IP address, making it difficult or impossible for others to see where they are browsing or what they are doing.
- Access Control: Due to various reasons, some countries impose restrictions on websites and online content, limiting access to certain platforms and resources. With a VPN, individuals can circumvent these restrictions, accessing content and websites that may be otherwise unavailable in their regions.
- Protection from Cyber Threats: VPNs create an encrypted connection between a user’s device and the internet, protecting their online activity from prying eyes. This added security helps protect users from viruses, malware, spam, and phishing attempts.
Do VPNs work?
The efficacy of VPNs has been a topic of discussion for many years, with various opinions espoused. However, important evaluative metrics have surfaced, proving their effectiveness in bolstering online privacy and security.
In a report published by the Center for Democracy and Technology, researchers explored the efficacy of VPNs in various areas, including security, privacy, and performance issues.
The report found that VPNs do, in fact, work in terms of both encrypting a user’s online activity and masking their IP address.
A high-quality VPN can create a secure connection that thwarts cyber attackers’ attempts to monitor or steal personal information.
Can VPNs block malware?
While VPNs are not antivirus software, they can provide an additional layer of protection against malware.
According to a report by Atlas VPN, approximately 1 in 548 websites host malicious software, with the majority aimed at stealing users’ personal data. VPNs can serve as a preventative mechanism, blocking users’ access to such nefarious websites, minimizing the risk of infection.
Which is the best VPN to use?
There are numerous VPNs that users can choose from, each with its unique features and benefits.
Atlas VPN, a relatively new player on the market, has been earning rave reviews for its privacy and accessibility features.
The service provides a robust network of over 700 servers worldwide, ensuring fast and reliable connections. Additionally, Atlas VPN follows a strict zero-logging policy, prioritizing user privacy and safeguarding personal data.
Conclusion
Safe Browsing and VPNs are essential tools that everyone should use to ensure their online security and privacy. Safe Browsing involves adopting secure browsing practices to shield ourselves from online security threats, while VPNs provide users with a secure, private connection to the internet by encrypting the data.
In today’s interconnected world, selecting the right VPN provider is crucial to our online safety and privacy. Atlas VPN is an excellent choice, providing users with speedy and secure connections, and reliable privacy features.
