“If something's for free, if the service is for free, you are not the customer, you are the product” - OTW
These words have been echoing in my mind for days—arguably the most tech-relevant truth I've encountered lately. Ever find yourself muttering, “Wow, another free service—I’ll take two!” only to wonder later why your inbox is suddenly flooded with ads for cat sweaters in your exact size? As hackers like David Bombal and OTW (Occupy The Web) say, when a service costs nothing, it’s often because you are the product being sold.
1. The VPN Hype—and Its Dirty Laundry
VPNs get a ton of ad space these days, promising total anonymity and superhero-grade security. But not so fast: OTW highlights how some major VPN providers (looking at you, Fortinet!) keep discovering facepalm-level vulnerabilities—like old-school directory traversals and unencrypted credentials. Imagine your front door’s lock being stuck with chewing gum.
Instead of a security fortress, these devices can become a gateway for hackers who want to snoop around, steal data, or even cackle like villains while they rummage through your entire network.
A Few Hard Truths
VPN ≠ Invisibility Cloak
Sure, a VPN hides your IP from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). But that’s like putting sunglasses on at night—still cool, but not invisible.
Browser Fingerprinting
With over 50 data points (browser version, fonts, screen resolution, maybe even your favorite pizza topping!), trackers can figure out exactly who you are. A concealed IP only goes so far.
2. Defense in Depth: The ‘Double Sandwich’ Strategy
Relying on one device or software for protection is like wearing just one sock to a blizzard. OTW suggests defense in depth, also known as “the cybersecurity sandwich.” Instead of stacking multiple layers of turkey and cheese, you layer different security solutions from different vendors.
Why Bother?
If one piece of gear (say, a VPN) has a big, juicy exploit, at least your next firewall or security system might catch the intruder before your data becomes dinner.
3. The True Cost of “Free”
Online freebies are the bright neon signs of the internet, luring you in with zero-dollar price tags. But remember:
“If you’re not paying, you’re probably the product.”
Whether it’s a free VPN or a free proxy, be aware that these freebies might be logging every click and keystroke—perfect for resale to advertisers or, worst case, intelligence agencies. If a government wanted to spy on people evading censorship, a free, super-fast VPN would be the perfect honey pot.
4. When (and Why) You’d Use a VPN
Despite the doom and gloom, there are legit reasons to use a VPN:
Public Wi-Fi
Checking your email at a coffee shop or airport? A VPN at least keeps the person next to you from sneakily reading your messages over the shared network.
Bypassing Censorship
If you live in or travel to countries that block certain sites, a VPN’s foreign server can give you access (…unless it’s on their radar too).
Regional Streaming Content
Let’s be honest—sometimes a show is only available in another country. No judgment here.
5. How About Tor?
When privacy is the main course and speed is a mere side dish, Tor is a more robust option than a conventional VPN. It routes your traffic through multiple nodes, making tracking more difficult. But again, it’s not foolproof—government agencies have big budgets and bigger brains for tracking those they really want to catch. (So if you’re launching a Bond villain operation, proceed with caution.)
6. Key Takeaways for the Savvy Techie
Free = Product
Free services profit from your data or your traffic. That’s how they stay in business.
Multiple Layers
Combining varied security solutions is more effective than trusting a single product to do all the heavy lifting.
Browser Fingerprinting
Even with a VPN, your browser can spill the beans on who you are.
Stay Informed
Keep an eye on new vulnerabilities. Patch early, patch often, and hold vendors accountable.
Where To Learn More
Catch the full discussion between David Bombal and OTW, where they expand on:
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CTG Networks & Quaternion Systems (Pty) Ltd
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Key Words: Free VPN risks security vulnerabilities
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