Your Free VPN App Might Be Spying on You Here’s What You Need to Know
In a world where online privacy is becoming harder to protect, tools like VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) seem like lifesavers. Many people use them to hide their IP addresses, secure their data, and browse safely. But what if the VPN you trust the most is actually spying on you?
That’s not just a possibility—it’s happening.
Google recently issued a fraud and scam advisory warning users that some so-called “free VPNs” are, in reality, sophisticated traps designed to steal personal information. Behind their clean interfaces and privacy promises, some of these apps are actually malware disguised as VPNs.
How a VPN Works—and How Fake Ones Exploit It
A legitimate VPN routes your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel, hiding your real location and making it harder for anyone—including your internet service provider—to track what you do online.
However, malicious VPNs turn this protection on its head. According to Google’s findings, some of these fake apps are secretly installing:
- Info stealers – programs that extract saved passwords and browsing history.
- Remote access trojans (RATs) – tools that give hackers full control of your device.
- Banking trojans – malware designed to steal login details for your bank and cryptocurrency accounts.
Instead of shielding you, these VPNs act as spyware, giving cybercriminals direct access to your private world.
How to Tell if a VPN Is Safe
1. Download Only from Official Sources
Always install VPN apps from trusted stores like Google Play or Apple’s App Store. Avoid links shared through messages, websites, or social media posts. While even app stores aren’t perfect, they’re still far safer than sideloading unverified files.
2. Look for Google’s VPN Verification Badge
In January 2025, Google introduced a new VPN verification system.
VPNs that pass a Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) Level 2 and undergo independent security audits receive a “Verified” badge on the Play Store.
To qualify, the app must:
- Be at least 90 days old on the store
- Have over 10,000 downloads
- Receive at least 250 genuine reviews
But remember—verification isn’t a guarantee. Even a verified Chrome VPN extension was caught spying on users earlier this year. So treat the badge as a sign of effort, not absolute safety.
3. Be Skeptical of “Free and Unlimited” Offers
Running a VPN requires expensive infrastructure. So if a company offers “unlimited data” for free, you’re paying in another way—usually through your data. Free VPNs often make money by selling user information to advertisers or worse.
If privacy truly matters to you, invest in a reputable paid VPN. It’s a small price for genuine protection.
4. Check App Permissions Regularly
A VPN doesn’t need access to your camera, microphone, contacts, or photo gallery.
Review your app permissions and revoke anything that doesn’t make sense.
Do this not just for VPNs—but for every app on your device.
The Bottom Line
Privacy tools are meant to protect you, not exploit you. Unfortunately, the rise of fake VPNs shows that cybercriminals are adapting faster than ever.
Your best defense isn’t just installing another app—it’s understanding how these tools work and using them wisely.
When it comes to online privacy, remember:
If something claims to be free and unlimited, it’s probably you who’s the product.