If you're among the growing number of Canadians concerned about digital privacy—from location tracking on smartphones to targeted ads using personal information—you've likely heard about virtual private networks (VPNs) as a protective measure. But is this security tool necessary for average internet users who don't engage in risky online behavior? Digital privacy experts unanimously say yes.
How VPNs Protect Your Online Activity
A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a remote server, routing your internet traffic through that server before reaching its final destination. Henry Fisher, founder of Techlore and digital rights activist, explains that this process hides your real IP address from websites, making it appear you're browsing from the VPN server's location rather than your actual physical location.
This encryption provides crucial protection against potential threats. Rahul Telang, professor of information systems at Carnegie Mellon University's Heinz College, emphasizes that VPNs make it difficult for hackers and internet service providers to track your activity, particularly when using public WiFi networks. The technology also allows users to overcome location-based restrictions by masking IP addresses, enabling access to region-locked streaming content (assuming this doesn't violate service terms).
Beyond Streaming: The Real Value of Privacy Protection
While accessing geo-restricted content might be the most talked-about VPN benefit, experts stress that privacy protection offers far greater value for everyday users. Wes Anderson, founder and president of Reveille Advisors, notes that privacy and lack of traffic history associated with your IP address represent the most significant advantages.
Consider the sensitive information you regularly share online: home addresses, credit card details, medical records. Anderson warns that this data holds tremendous value for both corporations targeting advertisements and criminals engaged in malicious activities. Whether you work in finance or manage household affairs, maintaining privacy restores innate autonomy and serves as a practical tool for modern digital life.
Understanding VPN Limitations and Choosing the Right Service
Despite their benefits, VPNs cannot solve all digital privacy challenges. Fisher cautions that the biggest misconception is that VPNs provide complete anonymity. Websites can still track users through cookies, browser fingerprinting, and account logins. Additionally, VPNs offer limited protection against malware, phishing attempts, or data breaches from services you use.
Telang adds that if users click malicious links, negative consequences cannot be avoided regardless of VPN usage. Fisher also questions marketing claims about military-grade encryption, noting this typically refers to standard encryption protocols used universally.
When selecting a VPN service, both Fisher and Anderson recommend Proton VPN for its transparency and privacy-focused approach. Currently available at a discounted rate of $3 monthly (regularly $10+), Proton VPN operates under Swiss jurisdiction, which must adhere to comprehensive European Union privacy laws rather than less stringent regulations in Five Eyes nations (including Canada).
The service features a strict no-log policy, strong encryption, and a kill switch that blocks external network traffic if the VPN connection drops. Additional benefits include DNS ad-blocking capabilities and protection for up to 10 devices simultaneously—crucial for what Anderson describes as 24/7 use pattern protection.
Fisher emphasizes that VPNs should be used across all devices for maximum privacy benefits, not just during travel or on specific devices. While free VPN options exist, experts generally recommend paid services for better performance and reliability.
As Telang summarizes, reputable VPN services require investment, but the protection they offer for your digital footprint—from shopping habits to medical information—makes the modest monthly cost worthwhile for Canadian consumers concerned about their online privacy.
