Beware of Free VPNs: The Hidden Cost of Convenience
Mahesh Atapattu
Transformational CIO / CISO | LinkedIn Top Voice x | InfoSec Leader | Managing Risks, Driving Compliance (ISO 27001, 27701, GDPR, 27017) | Tech Enthusiast & IT Consultant
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for internet users seeking privacy and security. However, the allure of free VPN services can sometimes lead to unexpected and dangerous consequences.
The 911 S5 Botnet: A Case Study
In May 2024, the FBI, in collaboration with international law enforcement, dismantled the 911 S5 botnet, one of the largest botnets ever, spanning 19 million unique IP addresses across over 190 countries.
Shockingly, the botnet's creators used several free VPN services, including MaskVPN, DewVPN, PaladinVPN, ProxyGate, ShieldVPN, and ShineVPN, to build their malicious network. Users who installed these free VPN apps unknowingly turned their devices into proxy servers, channeling someone else's traffic for illicit activities like cyberattacks, money laundering, and mass fraud.
The Hidden Cost of "Free"
The saying "There's no such thing as a free lunch" rings true in the digital world. Maintaining a global network of servers and handling encrypted traffic is costly. When users aren't asked to pay for these services, there's often a hidden catch.
The 911 S5 botnet is not an isolated incident. In March 2024, a similar scheme involving several dozen apps on Google Play was uncovered, with free VPNs making up the bulk of the infected ones. These apps, including Lite VPN, Byte Blade VPN, BlazeStride, and many others, used the ProxyLib library or the LumiApps SDK to turn devices into proxy servers, often without the user's knowledge.
Consequences for Users
While the infected VPN apps were removed from Google Play, they continue circulating on alternative platforms, posing an ongoing threat.
The Importance of Paid VPNs
Given the risks associated with free VPNs, investing in a reputable, paid VPN service is the optimal solution. Paid VPNs are more likely to offer:
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Infected VPN Apps on Google Play
The 911 S5 botnet is not an isolated incident. In March 2024, a similar scheme involving several dozen apps on Google Play was uncovered. Among these apps, free VPNs constituted the bulk of the infected ones.
The list included:
The Bottom Line
While the promise of free VPN services may be tempting, the hidden costs can be significant. The 911 S5 botnet and other malicious activities highlight the dangers of using free VPNs. By investing in a reputable, paid VPN service, users can ensure their online privacy and security without falling victim to hidden threats.
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