Security

Could Your VPN App Be Tracking You With Malware?

It’s always concerning how much of our information seems to be accessed, shared, and stored by different applications, websites, and companies at any given time. There are many applications we use daily that need our personal information in order to function. However, how many other apps are also accessing and storing our information when they don’t need to — perhaps without our knowledge? It’s especially troubling that many VPN applications have been storing and stealing the very information they are supposed to protect. So what are we to do?

Be sure to run a full virus scan on your device after you download any news apps. This DFNDR feature scans your device for potential threats on both your device’s storage and your SD card. If it finds anything, it will alert you and assist you in removing it so that your information is secure. That way, you’ll catch any malicious apps immediately that may have installed spyware onto your device. Click the button below to run a full virus scan now:

It is also beneficial to always check the permissions that applications request before you install them. Whenever you want to download a new app, make sure to pay close attention to the permissions. Some permissions make sense but selfie apps, VPN apps, and camera apps don’t need to access your personal information under any circumstances. Therefore, if any of the permissions are unusual, don’t download the app.

VPN Apps and Tracking

There are people all over the world that have been attempting to secure and protect their information with the use of VPN apps, but many of these apps have been dishonest about their actual intentions. It was recently revealed that 38% of VPN apps on the Google Play Store contain malware — and that percentage doesn’t seem to be getting any smaller.

In addition to stealing your information, malware can also damage your device. Many apps might allow individuals and companies to access this information that they collect. In many cases, this can compromise your other personal accounts or even financial information as well. But at the very least, this information is used for targeted marketing purposes.

Before you download a VPN app, make sure that it’s from a reputable source. This is especially important if you’re paying for a monthly service. If a VPN app has few downloads, appears suspicious, or has a lot of negative reviews (particularly related to security), don’t download the app.

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The dfndr blog is an informative channel that presents exclusive content on security and privacy in the mobile and business world, with tips to keep users protected. Populated by a select group of expert reporters, the channel has a partnership with dfndr lab's security team. Together they bring you, first-notice news about attacks, scams, internet vulnerabilities, malware and everything affecting cybersecurity.