Are free VPN services safe? What is their reliability and what is the nature of such services? Why are VPN services offered for free, what is their business model, and can they be trusted?
The Security of Free VPN Services Raises Serious Concerns
The security of free VPN services raises serious concerns. Most free VPN services cannot be trusted, as their business model is often based on collecting and selling user data, and some contain malware. The reliability of such services is extremely low due to weak encryption, lack of audits, and frequent privacy violations.
Table of Contents
- Dangers of Free VPN Services
- Business Model of Free VPNs
- Risks for Users
- Exceptions and Safe Alternatives
- How to Choose a Secure VPN
- Conclusion and Recommendations
Dangers of Free VPN Services
Free VPN services pose a significant threat to user security. According to research, 38% of free Android VPN services contain malware that can turn devices into botnets or steal sensitive information [source]. Many of these applications request dangerous permissions, such as “READ_LOGS” on Android, which allows them to view system activity and gain access to usernames, passwords, and personal messages [source].
It’s important to understand: A VPN application should encrypt and protect network traffic, but many analyzed applications demonstrate behavior contrary to this purpose. Some request “READ_LOGS” permission, which gives them access to all system activity.
Some free VPNs are direct spyware. They are specifically designed to collect sensitive information, implement intrusive advertising, or install spyware on users’ devices [source]. A classic example is the Onavo Protect service, which was acquired by Facebook and used to monitor competitors and collect application data, which was classified as spyware [source].
Business Model of Free VPNs
The main essence of free VPN services is that they must somehow generate revenue. Unlike paid VPNs, which have a transparent funding model through monthly subscriptions, free services are forced to earn from users in other ways [source].
The main business models of free VPNs include:
-
Collection and sale of user data — this is the most common model. Free VPNs collect vast amounts of data about user behavior, including browsing history and even personal information, and sell it to major analytics or advertising companies [source].
-
Advertising integration — many free VPN services integrate advertising into their applications, which can range from banner ads to more intrusive forms.
-
Speed and data limitations — free versions typically have strict limitations on speed and data volume to push users toward upgrading to paid versions.
-
Monetization through affiliate programs — some services earn through affiliate commissions by recommending other paid services to users.
As experts note, “free services must generate revenue somehow. This is often achieved by collecting and selling vast amounts of user data, including browsing history and even personal information, to major analytics or advertising companies” [source].
Risks for Users
Using free VPN services involves numerous risks to user security and privacy.
Security risks:
- Weak encryption — many free VPNs use outdated or weak encryption protocols that are easily hackable [source].
- Lack of audits — consumer VPN applications and browser extensions often do not undergo independent audits, leaving users vulnerable to weak encryption [source].
- Malware — as research shows, a significant portion of free VPNs contains malicious code, including trojans and spyware [source].
Privacy risks:
- Data logging — many free VPNs track and record user network traffic, selling this data to third parties [source].
- Opaque privacy policies — terms of service often contain fine print and hidden provisions that allow data collection.
- Data leaks — some services, such as CyberGhost, experienced user email address leaks in 2024 [source].
Performance risks:
- Limited speed — free versions typically have serious speed limitations.
- Small number of servers — a limited server network leads to overload and unstable operation.
- Content blocking — some free VPNs cannot bypass geographical restrictions or content blocks.
Exceptions and Safe Alternatives
Despite the general risks, there are some exceptions among free VPN services. Three providers featured in the CNET list are exceptions among the risks of free VPNs. Although all of them have compromises, they also openly report what they do and don’t do. Each has robust security, a clean history of handling user data, and applications that never force users to update just to make them work properly [source].
The safest free options include:
-
Windscribe — offers advanced security features such as R.O.B.E.R.T. — a reliable blocker of ads, malware, trackers, and malicious websites. Allows creating custom security rules, such as configuring the app to block unwanted domains, IP addresses, or networks [source].
-
ProtonVPN — has a simple interface thanks to a recent UI update for Windows, iOS, and Android applications. Although its Chrome extension may be less reliable than others, it has a Linux application with a decent graphical interface [source].
-
Some limited versions of paid VPNs — providers such as NordVPN, Surfshark, and others offer limited free versions with basic security features.
As noted by Mozilla Developer Network, an important factor is that these services openly report their limitations and don’t hide how they make money.
How to Choose a Secure VPN
When choosing a VPN service, you should pay attention to the following security criteria:
-
No-logs policy — reliable VPN services have a strict no-logs policy and regularly undergo independent audits. For example, NordVPN has implemented a strict no-logs policy and commits to regular independent audits to confirm that it does not collect any user activity data (the fifth audit was conducted at the end of 2024) [source].
-
Country of registration — jurisdiction affects applicable data laws. Some countries have data retention requirements or participate in intelligence-sharing alliances. No jurisdiction guarantees absolute security, but knowing where the provider operates helps assess risks [source].
-
Cryptographic standards — ensure that the service uses modern encryption protocols such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, or IKEv2.
-
Reputation and reviews — look for reviews from independent experts and trusted sources.
-
Transparency — reliable providers openly report on their business model and privacy policy.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Based on the research conducted, the following conclusions can be drawn:
-
Most free VPN services are unsafe — they pose a significant risk to user security and privacy due to data collection, information selling, and the presence of malware.
-
Business model is based on user data monetization — free VPNs cannot exist without generating revenue, and the primary source of income is often the sale of user data.
-
Exceptions exist but are rare — several verified providers offer secure free versions, but they have serious limitations.
-
Paid VPNs offer significantly greater security — as noted by CloudExplorer, paid VPNs primarily care about user security through strong encryption, no-logs policies, larger server networks, and other features.
Recommendations:
- Avoid using unknown free VPN services
- If you need to use a free VPN, choose verified providers with a good reputation
- For working with sensitive data, use only paid VPN services with a verified no-logs policy
- Pay attention to the permissions requested by the application and avoid those that request access to system logs or other sensitive data
Ultimately, the choice of a VPN service should be based on a balance between security needs, budget, and level of trust in the provider. For most users, paid VPN services offer significantly greater protection and reliability compared to free alternatives.
Sources
-
Free VPN Apps Found Riddled With Security Flaws - Infosecurity Magazine
-
11 VPN Scams to Look Out for in 2025 (And How to Avoid Them)
-
Cybersecurity Alert: Dangerous Malware Spreading Rapidly, Disguised as Free VPN
-
Free VPN Risks: Why Paid VPNs Offer More Security - CloudExplorer
-
The 5 Best Free VPN Services of 2025: Fast, Secure & Private
-
How to Choose a Reliable VPN for Online Privacy in 2025 | IBTimes