If you’re interested in using a VPN you should know that VPNs keep logs of some sort, even if they’re claiming that they’re “zero log VPNs.”
And while the type of logs they keep may not be the kind you really care about, the more you understand about VPN logging, the better. Because you never know when the VPN service you use will start logging sensitive information that you don’t want them to.
What is a Zero Log VPN and Can You Trust Them?
People who use VPNs are looking for anonymity. That’s one of the reasons the inbound marketing strategy by VPN services is that they don’t log anything.
That’s where zero log VPNs come into play.
In simple terms, a zero log VPN is a VPN service that does not collect, or “log,” any information through the network. This means that they will not store your personal details, where you go online, what you do, or what you search for.
But you have to remember, VPNs are not services people can use to cover every single move they make on the internet, so they can do whatever they want. If that were the case, people would be conducting all sorts of illegal activities.
Take for instance the case involving Ryan Lin. He was under investigation by the FBI for harassing, cyberbullying, and hacking. He was also using a zero log VPN to cover his tracks. But if this were true, he would have never been caught – but he was.
This is because the so-called zero log VPN he was using did in fact log some information about him. In fact, they were able to hand the authorities Lin’s IP address, which eventually led to his arrest and conviction.
So, here are the things to keep in mind when using a zero log VPN:
VPNs always log some information
You cannot use a VPN to conduct illegal activity
Some “zero log VPNs” will blatantly lie about not logging information
So, Why Are VPNs Lying?
VPN services aren’t trying to lie to their customers. In fact, they’re just trying to give their customers what they want, which is anonymity while browsing the internet.
But that doesn’t make it right. And if you’re going to hand over your hard-earned cash for VPN services expecting one thing – no logging – and later find out that they are in fact logging information about you, you’ll have every right to be upset.
So, what’s the solution you ask?
Here are the questions you should be asking when considering a zero log VPN:
What information does my VPN service log about me and my online activities?
How long are logs kept on file?
What does the official logging policy say?
Additionally, you should always avoid VPN services that log the websites you visit, files you download, and the software or devices you access.
In the end, there are no true “zero log VPNs.” But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use a VPN. Just pick on that logs minimal information and more importantly, stays transparent about their logs.
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