Byline: Daniel FuschA free Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you browse the internet more securely, but it’s important to vet the app you’re using to make sure it fits your needs and provides the level of security you require.Amid concerns over privacy and cybersecurity when using public Wi-Fi, more people are using a free Virtual Private Network (VPN) to surf the Web anonymously. Every month, about 46 million people use a VPN in the US. You may be one of them, or you may be looking for your first VPN app. Recently, Gizmodo published a comparison of the best free VPNs to help you get started. However, not all free VPNs are created equal, and not every free VPN offers the same degree of protection. It’s a good idea to check the VPN’s privacy policy, encryption, data limits, device permissions, and business model before downloading.What to Know Before Choosing a Free VPNWhen you are checking your email at an airport or browsing from a café, a VPN can help protect your browsing activity on unsecured, public WiFi by routing your Web traffic through an encrypted connection. However, this isn’t the same thing as complete anonymity. In fact, not all VPNs encrypt your information (or all of it), which has prompted the Federal Trade Commission to warn users to research a VPN app thoroughly before use.When selecting a VPN, seek clarity on what practical benefits the app offers, and be ready to spot any exaggerated claims. Also, while an effective VPN can help secure your browsing, it is no substitute for using a strong password, installing all software updates, and exercising caution when clicking links; a VPN won’t protect you from a well-targeted phishing attempt.That said, here’s what to look for:Does the VPN provider clearly explain its logging policy? You want to know what data the VPN app stores and for how long, and whether any of your data is shared or sold to third parties.Does the app disclose its bandwidth or server limits? With a free VPN, you may run into a cap on the amount of data you can transfer or on your download speed. If you plan to watch a lot of movies on the go, some free VPNs may offer only limited or unreliable streaming.Does the VPN ask you for unnecessary permissions? Some apps might request more permissions on your device than you are comfortable with.How specific does the app get about its encryption standards and protocols?What is the VPN’s business model? What features are limited, compared to what might be available to you with a paid upgrade?Can you find independent reviews or a long public track record for this provider? It’s important to install privacy tools that are from trusted sources.When a Free VPN May Not Be EnoughAfter working your way through that checklist and vetting the app you have in mind, a free VPN may help you browse more securely. Yet you may want to do more than just check your inbox or peruse the news. If you are handling sensitive work files, logging into your bank, or even just streaming large amounts of data frequently (for example, streaming movies or playing online games), you may need a more robust tool. It can be helpful to check what paid upgrades are available for the free VPN app that has caught your eye. You might find that you need the upgrade later.FAQQ. Are free VPNs safe to use?A. A free VPN may be safe for light browsing, but you should check the provider’s privacy policy, permissions, encryption details, and public reputation before you install that app.Q. Can a free VPN make someone completely anonymous?A. No. While a free VPN may conceal your browsing history, Internet cookies, and account logins may still expose your online activity.Q. Why do free VPNs have limits?A. The infrastructure for a VPN can get costly, so some providers offer their free app as a pared-down version with slower download speed, less data, and fewer privacy protections, to encourage you to opt for a paid upgrade that will help cover the cost of providing the network.Q. When should you consider a paid VPN instead?A. You might consider a paid VPN plan if you travel frequently, work remotely, need to check sensitive data online, or engage in high-volume streaming or gaming. In these cases, speed, fewer data limitations, and stronger privacy features probably matter to you.\:::tipThis story was distributed as a release by Jon Stojan under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. :::\