A VPN is the best technique for a lot of problems you might experience online-accessing blocked websites, hiding your internet browsing activity, getting rid of internet throttling, finding better deals, and much more. With a virtual private network, communication between devices is made private. The virtual private network creates an encrypted connection between your device and a private server that serves as your protected go-between.
When your device sends data, it is covered by the encrypted tunnel and forwarded to the remote server, which communicates with the site or app for you. The same thing happens when it gets information back: the server receives it first, then sends it to your system through a protected connection.
But does a virtual private network protect you from hackers? Are your files safer on the internet with a virtual private network? How much difference does it make in terms of data protection? The answer to these queries is not as simple as Yes or No. In this blog, TechNinjaPro will discuss the answers to the above-mentioned questions.
Does a VPN Prevent Hacking?
You should make use of a VPN on a public network or your home wifi because it protects your online privacy. But a virtual private network cannot simply save you from every single type of cyber attack. Some attacks are sophisticated and complex, which even a VPN cannot prevent. But let’s look at some of the internet attacks that a virtual private network can stop.
1. MITM Attack
A MITM attack is when a cyberattacker comes in between you and the web browser that you need to communicate with over the internet. It is like eavesdropping, as the hacker interrupts and steals information from an existing conversation or data transfer. When hackers know which network you are on, they can exploit its weak encryption standards to intercept your data transfers. The shocking thing is that you would not even notice it. Using this technique, hackers can steal private information like credit card details or login credentials.
Most public networks use the WPA2 security standard, which is a very weak encryption standard and vulnerable to MITM attacks. Even the WPA3 standard is not completely foolproof. So, how does a virtual private network help in this condition?
A virtual private network encrypts all of your internet activity. VPN encryptions are so robust that it is nearly impossible to crack. When using a virtual private network, IP addresses will be bounced around numerous locations. The hacker would not know your actual IP that is connected to the network.
2. Remote Hacking
One of the practical tricks used by hackers is gaining access to your device through your IP. Almost every site you visit tracks your IP. If one of those sites is compromised by an attacker, they will access your IP address. Then it is a case of using that IP address as a backdoor into your device.
TechNinjaPro is talking about your PC, TV, CCTV, Smartphone, and everything connected to your wifi. A virtual private network covers your real IP, preventing hackers from gaining access to it. So, if you are connected to a virtual private network when browsing the internet, every website you visit would not be tracking your actual IP address, so there is no way for hackers to know about it.
3. DDoS/DoS Attack
DDoS attacks are when hackers floor your network with unwanted traffic and requests. The aim is to force users offline for some time or run into the site you are trying to access. However, with a virtual private network, you do not need to worry about DDoS attacks. For this attack, the hacker needs to know your IP. Without knowing your IP address, where is he going to target the attack?
By masking your IP address, a virtual private network protects you from becoming a target of such cyberattacks, and you can keep enjoying an uninterrupted connection. It is essential to note that a VPN would not protect you from someone who already knows your actual IP address. In such situations, the finest way out is to talk to your internet service provider.
Which Attacks a VPN Cannot Prevent?
Basically, a virtual private network would not protect you against attacks that do not need access to your IP. Such as phishing attacks and malware attacks. Some attackers can gain control of your system by injecting malicious software, codes, and files into your system.
Sometimes, cyberattackers can send you a fake email containing malicious data, which can compromise your system once opened or downloaded. In such situations, a VPN would not b able to help you. You should consider getting antivirus on your device for better protection against malware attacks. Similarly, a virtual private network would not help you much against phishing attacks.
Conclusion
Yes, a virtual private network will protect you from cyberattacks that need access to your real IP. Regardless, a virtual private network can provide you protection in terms of securing your information online. So, having a VPN does reduce your chances of getting hacked online.
Additionally, a VPN can help you enjoy an uninterrupted internet connection and even an added boost to your internet speed in some cases. TechNinjaPro will recommend using PureVPN for complete protection against hackers.