Malicious applications that may be VPNs can turn your device into a tool for cyberattacks

Virtual private networks (VPNs) are important if you care about your data and privacy. They create a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet, hiding your IP address and protecting your online activity.

There are tons of apps that claim to offer VPN services, but not all of them are legitimate. Some are fake trying to steal your data.

In the third quarter of 2024, security researchers found that the number of users encountering fake VPN apps jumped 2½ times compared to the second quarter worldwide. These apps were either malware or programs that could be used by malicious actors.

I dive into the rise of fake VPN apps and how you can stay safe.

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A VPN on a mobile phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What you need to know about the rise of fake VPN apps

According to Kasperskycybercriminals take advantage of people who want to use free VPN services. In May 2024, law enforcement shut down a botnet, a network of hijacked devices, called 911 S5. Several free VPN services, including MaskVPN, DewVPN, PaladinVPN, ProxyGate, ShieldVPN and ShineVPN, were used to create this botnet.

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When users installed these VPN apps, their devices were turned into proxy servers, meaning they were used to redirect each other. internet traffic.

This large network spread across 19 million unique IP addresses in over 190 countries, making it possibly the largest botnet ever created. The people who control the botnet sell access to these infected devices to other criminals, who use them for cyberattacks, money laundering and fraud.

A VPN on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Don’t trust free VPNs

You can’t trust free VPN apps because they have no reason to keep you or your data safe. Here’s why you should be careful:

• data sharing: Many free VPNs share user data with third parties.
• Weak encryption: About 36% of free VPNs use weak encryption, compromising your online security.
• Data leak: Almost 90% of free VPNs leak some kind of data, with 17% leaking more than they should.
• Unreliable connections: More than half of free VPNs have unstable connections.
• Excessive permissions: Almost 70% ask for permissions they don’t need, such as tracking your location (20%) or checking what apps you have installed (46%).

Why people fall for fake VPNs

There is a growing demand for VPN applications across all platforms, including smartphones and computers. Users often believe that if they find a VPN app in an official store, such as Google Play, it is safe to use. They are particularly attracted to free services, thinking it is a great deal. However, this can often be a trap.

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Choose trusted VPN services for optimal security and privacy

If you need a VPN, use a service that is well known, trusted and not free. Look for ones that are talked about on mainstream sites and backed by solid reviews. If you don’t know where to start, I put together a practice list of my favorite VPNs. I’ve tested them myself, and you can trust them to keep your data safe. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs to browse the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices..

A woman looking at a VPN app on her phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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7 important tips for choosing and using VPN

Here are seven essential steps to help you choose a reliable VPN and safeguard your online privacy.

1. Stick to official app stores: Always download apps from trusted platforms like the App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android. These stores have built-in security measures that help detect and remove fake or malicious apps. Avoid downloading apps from random websites or third-party stores, as they are more likely to host malicious software. Even in official stores, check the app’s reviews, ratings and download numbers to make sure it’s reliable.

2. Pay attention to app permissions: Be careful about the permissions you grant to applications during installation. For example, a flashlight application does not need access to your contacts or location. Question any permission that is not aligned with the functionality of the app. Both iOS and Android allow you to review and manage app permissions in your settings, so take the time to check what you’ve already allowed.

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3. Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Implement 2FA for your VPN accounts to add an extra layer of security beyond just a password.

4. Keep the software updated: Regularly update all VPN software, including clients, servers and associated network hardware, to take advantage of the latest security patches and improvements.

5. Use strong encryption: Look for VPN services that use strong encryption protocols like AES-256 to protect your data.

6. Monitor VPN traffic: Continuously monitor VPN traffic and logs for unusual patterns that could indicate security issues.

7. Invest in strong antivirus software: A strong antivirus program can help detect and remove malware before it compromises your device. Many antivirus apps also come with features like web protection, anti-phishing tools and the ability to scan new apps for threats. While there are free options, premium versions often provide more comprehensive protection. Look for a trusted name in cybersecurity when choosing an antivirus solution. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Kurt’s main important

Fake VPN apps are everywhere, and that’s bad news. They are not just useless. They can turn your device into a tool for cybercriminals. The 911 S5 botnet showed us how dangerous free VPNs can be, turning millions of devices into a giant network for fraud and attacks. The truth is that free VPNs are not really free. They often come with weak security, leak your data or ask for permissions that put your privacy at risk. If you are serious about protecting your online business, invest in a reliable and paid VPN service.

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