Malicious apps masquerading as VPNs can turn your device into a tool for cyberattacks

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are important if you’re looking after yours data and privacy. They create a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the Internet, hiding your IP address and protecting your online activity.

There are many programs that claim to offer VPN services, but not all of them are legitimate. Some of them are fakes trying to steal your data.

In the third quarter of 2024, security researchers found that the number of users who encountered fake VPN programs increased by 2.5 times compared to the second quarter worldwide. These applications were either malicious programs or programs that could be used intruders.

I dive into the rise of fake VPNs and how you can stay safe.

I’M GIVING AWAY THE LATEST AND GREATEST AIRPODS PRO 2

VPN for mobile phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)

What you need to know about the surge in fake VPN software

According to Kasperskycybercriminals take advantage of people who want to use free VPN services. In May 2024, law enforcement shut down a botnet, a network of compromised devices called 911 S5. Several free VPN services, including MaskVPN, DewVPN, PaladinVPN, ProxyGate, ShieldVPN, and ShineVPN, were used to create this botnet.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

When users installed these VPN apps, their devices were turned into proxies, meaning they were used to redirect other people’s internet traffic.

This massive network spans 19 million unique IP addresses in over 190 countries, making it possibly the largest botnet ever created. The people controlling the botnet sold access to these infected devices to other criminals who used them for cyber attacks, money laundering and fraud.

VPN on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

Don’t trust free VPNs

You can’t trust free VPN apps because they have no reason to protect you and your data. Here’s why you should be careful:

• Data sharing: Many free VPNs share user data with third parties.
• Weak encryption: About 36% of free VPNs use weak encryption, compromising your online security.
• Data leaks: Almost 90% of free VPNs leak some data, and 17% leak more than necessary.
• Untrusted connections: More than half of free VPNs have unstable connections.
• Excessive permissions: Almost 70% ask for permissions they don’t need, such as tracking your location (20%) or checking installed apps (46%).

Why people fall for fake VPNs

There is a growing demand for VPN apps on all platforms, including smartphones and computers. Users often believe that if they find a VPN app on an official store such as Google Play, it is safe to use. They are especially attracted to free services, thinking that it is very good. However, this can often be a trap.

MASS DATA BREACH EXPOSED PERSONAL INFORMATION OF 3 MILLION AMERICANS TO CYBER CRIMINALS

Choose reliable VPN services for optimal security and privacy

If you need a VPN, choose a service that is well-known, reliable, and not free. Look for the ones that are talked about on major sites and backed by reliable reviews. If you don’t know where to start, I’ve put together a handy one list of my favorite VPNs. I’ve tested them myself and you can trust them to keep your data safe. To find the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for private web browsing on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

A woman is looking at a VPN app on her phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutson)

UNDERSTANDING CLEANING FRAUD AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

7 important tips for choosing and using a VPN

Here are seven basic steps to help you choose a reliable VPN and protect your online privacy.

1. Stick to official app stores: Always download apps from trusted platforms like App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android. These stores have built-in security measures to help detect and remove fake or malicious software. Avoid downloading programs from random websites or third-party stores, as they are more likely to host malware. Even in official stores, check the reviews, ratings, and number of downloads of the app to make sure it’s trustworthy.

2. Pay attention to program permissions: Be careful about the permissions you give programs during installation. A flashlight app, for example, doesn’t need access to your contacts or location. Question any permission that doesn’t match the app’s functionality. Both iOS and Android allow you to view and manage app permissions in Settings, so take the time to double-check what you’ve already allowed.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

3. Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Implement 2FA for your VPN accounts to add an extra layer of security beyond a simple password.

4. Update your software: Regularly update all VPN-related software, including clients, servers, and associated network equipment, to take advantage of the latest security patches and enhancements.

5. Use strong encryption: Look for VPN services that use strong encryption protocols like AES-256 to protect your data.

6. Monitor VPN traffic: Continuously monitor VPN traffic and logs for unusual patterns that may indicate security issues.

7. Invest in strong antivirus software: A strong antivirus program can help detect and remove malware before it compromises your device. Many antivirus applications also come with features such as web protection, anti-phishing tools, and the ability to scan new programs for threats. While there are free options, premium versions often offer more comprehensive protection. When choosing an antivirus solution, look for a trusted name in cybersecurity. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection of 2025 for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

The key is from Kurt

Fake VPN apps are everywhere, and that’s bad news. They are not just useless. They can turn your device into a tool for cybercriminals. The 911 S5 botnet showed us just how dangerous free VPNs can be, turning millions of devices into a giant fraud and attack network. The truth is that free VPNs aren’t really free. They often come with weak security, leak your data, or require permissions that put your privacy at risk. If you’re serious about protecting your online activities, invest in a reliable paid VPN service.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS PROGRAM

How often do you check the trustworthiness of downloaded programs? Let us know by emailing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report newsletter by following the link Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you want us to cover

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to CyberGuy’s most frequently asked questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.