TODAY’S TECH ALERT
When the VPN you trust might be the spy
Image: ChatGPT
A recent investigation found that fake VPN apps might have been spying on you all this time. If that doesn’t scream “Why you still need a VPN,” I don’t know what does.
Researchers uncovered a malicious campaign by an ad-tech group pushing fake VPNs like Fast VPN and Super Proxy. They pretended to protect your privacy while secretly stealing it.
These were in Google Play and even the App Store, with hundreds of thousands of downloads. The apps pushed fake subscriptions, tracked users and injected deceptive ads. If you weren’t paying close attention, you’d never know, and that’s precisely the danger.
🐴 Watch out for Trojan horses
This makes one thing crystal clear: You can’t just grab the first VPN you find. You need one you can trust. Head straight for providers with a proven no-log policy, clean reputations and audited privacy practices.
Here’s your real-life takeaway: If someone you’ve never heard of offers you a free VPN that feels too good to be true, it probably is.
⚠️ VPNs with privacy or security problems
Hola VPN – Not even a VPN. It routes your traffic through other users and can steal your bandwidth.
Betternet – Ranked among the most malware-infected Android VPNs. It injects tracking libraries and compromises your privacy.
Psiphon – Only meant for accessing blocked content. Lacks a kill switch, has DNS leaks and retains logs for up to 90 days.
Hotspot Shield – Has been caught injecting ad-tracking scripts and redirecting users to e-commerce sites.
PureVPN – Despite claiming zero logs, it once turned over user data to the FBI.
Windscribe – Was exposed for using unencrypted overseas servers, meaning potential data exposure.
Free VPN Unlimited VPN Proxy – Uses a host of sensitive information to track you across the web. This includes location, usage data and other identifiers.
And there are more, so many more.
VPNs developed by sanctioned or military‑linked firms, like Turbo VPN or VPN Proxy Master, still on app stores despite concerns about ties.
VPNs headquartered in Five Eyes countries like the U.S. or U.K. They may be compelled to log user data and hand it over. Examples include HideMyAss (U.K.), which has a sketchy history.
Fake or scammy VPN apps that don’t actually route traffic through VPN servers, but just collect your data.
If any of these VPNs are on your device, remove them immediately.
✅ What you need to do now
Always pick a reputable VPN provider. Look for real company names, transparent policies and independent audits.
Skip free or shady VPNs. If it’s free, you are the product.
If you travel or connect to public Wi-Fi, use your VPN every time. Your data should always have a bodyguard.
The right VPN isn’t a luxury anymore, it’s essential. Don’t let the fake ones fool you.
That’s why I recommend ExpressVPN. It’s fast, reliable and has been independently audited to prove its no-logs policy. Right now, you can even get 4 extra months free with a 24-month plan. Stay safe, stay private, and don’t leave your digital life wide open.
Photo credit(s): ChatGPT
Companies noted with an asterisk (*) sponsor my national radio show. Also, as an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
This newsletter and its content are intended for informational purposes only. They are provided without warranty of any kind. You shouldn’t construe anything provided here as legal, health, medical, technical, tax, investment, financial or any other kind of advice.
Missed something? View past issues
Join the lists for my weekly small biz and cryptocurrency newsletters!