When a user installs a VPN application, the service gains certain permissions that go beyond simple connectivity. Some of these permissions can access data on the device and the network, and not all of them are strictly necessary for the VPN to function. This concern was discussed by Vladimir Zykov, who holds a leadership role in a professional association focused on users of social networks and messaging platforms. He noted that many people underestimate what a VPN provider can see and control once the app is on a device.
Experts warn against placing blind trust in VPN owners, especially when a product’s security is claimed without transparent verification. The way information collected by the app is used depends largely on the conduct of the provider.
According to Zykov, the VPN service operator ends up with substantial visibility into a user’s traffic. This raises the question of what happens to that data and how it might be used beyond the immediate goal of creating a secure tunnel. Some free or low-cost VPNs have been accused of monetizing user information, and this appears to be a recurring pattern in the industry. The concern is that when a VPN is active, the server can observe traffic patterns, destinations, and even the content of non‑encrypted data in certain scenarios. The broader implication is that privacy is not automatically guaranteed by simply enabling a VPN, especially with services that do not offer strong guarantees about data handling.
The message from the expert is clear: choose VPN services with established reputations for reliability and privacy. Before downloading any client, it pays to read independent reviews and search for credible information about the provider. A cautious approach helps ensure that what is promised aligns with actual practices, particularly in markets where consumer protection varies by jurisdiction.
Efim Kazantsev, who serves on a legal support commission within a digital economy section of a professional bar association in Moscow, echoed the same cautions. He stressed that anything transmitted through a VPN may be accessible to third parties. This reminder highlights the importance of maintaining basic safety hygiene while using these tools.
Kazantsev also outlined practical precautions. He advised against relying on a VPN for highly sensitive tasks. It is prudent to avoid making payments or entering credit card details while connected through a VPN, and never store or transmit passport information while the VPN is active. He warned that leaking information could create risks or potential liability if data is exposed.
Another important point is to verify the legal details of any VPN service. If a provider does not disclose its physical location, its legal form, or its governing jurisdiction, it becomes difficult to pursue any claims in case of issues. This transparency is a basic element of accountability that users should expect from a reputable service.
In a practical sense, users in Canada and the United States should approach VPNs as tools with potential benefits and notable caveats. While a VPN can mask a user’s location and help secure data on public networks, it is not a magic shield. The credibility of the provider, the scope of data access, and the business model behind the service all influence the level of privacy a user can expect.
Overall, the guidance from industry experts emphasizes informed selection, due diligence, and ongoing awareness of privacy practices. Verified providers with clear privacy policies, transparent terms, and robust encryption standards are the preferred path for anyone considering a VPN. The aim is to minimize exposure while using these tools and to remain vigilant about who has access to the data that travels through the VPN tunnel.