In the digital age, many free VPN apps are stealing user data and sending it to China. Cyber experts have warned that these apps are dangerous for your privacy. Therefore, if you have these VPN apps on your phone, delete them immediately and use a reliable paid VPN.
VPN: In today's digital age, staying safe online is a priority for every user. Many people use VPN (Virtual Private Network) apps to protect their online identity and data. A VPN hides your online activities, giving you a secure browsing experience. But have you ever wondered if the VPNs that promise you security could themselves become a threat to your privacy?
Recently, a major alert has been issued for iPhone and Android users. Cybersecurity experts have warned that many popular and free VPN apps are secretly sending your sensitive data to foreign servers like those in China. This significantly increases the risk of your phone's privacy being compromised and data being stolen.
The Growing Threat of VPN Apps
While China has faced accusations of data theft regarding popular social media platforms like TikTok, this threat has now reached directly to your mobile phone. Many free VPN apps transfer users' sensitive data to foreign servers without regard for their privacy. Cyber experts say that these apps not only track your online activities but can also endanger the personal data on your phone.
Increasing Number of VPN Users and Lack of Security
In recent years, VPN demand has surged after the banning of adult and restricted websites. VPN downloads have increased by thousands of percent, especially in countries like the US, UK, and France. According to vpnMentor data, VPN usage in the UK increased by 6,000% as soon as adult sites were banned. While this trend reflects users' concern for online privacy, the insecurity of free VPN apps has also come to light.
Identifying Dangerous VPN Apps
Reputable organizations like the Tech Transparency Project (TTP) and Top10VPN have released lists in their reports of several VPN apps that are either Chinese-owned or have serious privacy flaws. Simon Migliano, an expert at Top10VPN, says, "Users should stay away from Chinese-owned VPN apps because the risk of data theft is very high."
Reports also reveal that millions of American users have downloaded apps that secretly send their internet traffic to China. This is a serious cybersecurity threat because it can lead to the theft of users' personal information, browsing patterns, and sensitive data.
Which Apps Pose a Threat?
Many of the top downloaded free VPN apps available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store are included in this threat. The names of the prominent apps are as follows:
Apple App Store:
- X-VPN
- Super VPN & Best Proxy
- Ostrich VPN - Proxy Master
- VPN Proxy Master - Super VPN
- Turbo VPN Private Browser
- VPNIFY - Unlimited VPN
- VPN Proxy OvpnSpider
- WireVPN - Fast VPN & Proxy
- Now VPN - Best VPN Proxy
- Speedy Quark VPN - VPN Proxy
- Best VPN Proxy AppVPN
- HulaVPN - Best Fast Secure VPN
- Pearl VPN
Google Play Store:
- Turbo VPN - Secure VPN Proxy
- VPN Proxy Master - Safer VPN
- X-VPN - Private Browser VPN
- Speedy Quark VPN - VPN Master
- Ostrich VPN - Proxy Unlimited
- Snap VPN: Super Fast VPN Proxy
- Signal Secure VPN - Robot VPN
- VPN Proxy OvpnSpider
- HulaVPN - Fast Secure VPN
- VPN Proxy AppVPN
Essential Steps for Users
If you have any of these apps installed on your phone, delete them immediately. It is unwise to put your privacy at risk in the name of a free VPN. Instead, use reliable paid VPN services that better handle your online security and privacy.
Also, always carefully review the app's reviews, developer information, and user ratings when downloading a VPN. In addition, regularly scan your mobile and computer for security to identify any suspicious apps.
