Does a VPN Protect You from Hackers in 2025

Keeping your data safe from hackers is crucial, and staying one step ahead of them is the only way to do that. Hackers have a lot of tricks up their sleeves that can make you a target. Using a VPN is one of the top ways to protect yourself.

When you use a VPN, it hides your real IP address and uses strong encryption to keep your online activities secure. But remember, a VPN does not shield you against all kinds of hacks. To learn more about this, read on.

How does a VPN protect you from hackers?

A VPN keeps you safe from hackers through two main ways:

1. Encryption

When you use a VPN, it encrypts your data as it leaves your device. This encrypted data then travels securely to the VPN server, where it is decrypted and sent to its intended online destination. 

Top-rated VPNs like PureVPN employ AES 256-bit encryption, a robust standard in the cybersecurity world. While it is technically possible for hackers to break this encryption, the effort is immense – potentially taking decades.

Furthermore, PureVPN is one of the few VPNs to use quantum-resistant encryption keys, which future-proofs your data security.

2. IP Masking

Your IP address is like a digital fingerprint, sometimes even traceable to your physical location. A VPN masks this by assigning you the server’s IP address instead. This disguise means any online activity traces back to the VPN server, not to you. 

As a result, hackers cannot determine your actual location, significantly reducing the risk of targeted attacks on your data or interconnected devices. The best VPNs like PureVPN offer an extensive pool of 300,000+ shared IPs.

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Most common hacks that VPNs can protect you from

While a VPN will not protect you from phishing or installing malware, it does keep you safe from certain techniques used by hackers. These include but are not limited to: 

1. DDoS attacks

DDoS, short for Distributed Denial of Service attacks, involves overwhelming a target system or network with a flood of traffic, rendering it unavailable to users. This attack often uses countless infected devices, forming a botnet, and floods the target with a large number of requests.

A premium VPN is useful in warding off DDoS attacks because it conceals your actual IP address. When your true location is hidden, it becomes much harder for a DDoS attack to pinpoint and target your system effectively.

2. Man-in-the-middle attacks 

Man-in-the-Middle attacks occur when a malicious actor intercepts and possibly alters communication between two sides without their knowledge. These commonly target public W-iFi users, compromising sensitive information such as login credentials, financial details, etc.

To stay safe against MiTM attacks, using a reliable VPN is a smart move. It ensures that all your online activities are encrypted, offering an additional layer of security when you access public Wi-Fi networks.

3. Session hijacking

Session hijacking, often known as session hacking or session stealing, is a serious security breach where an unauthorized individual gains control over a legitimate user’s computer session. The hacker typically captures or steals the user’s session identifier like a cookie or token. 

Once in possession of this session identifier, the attacker can effectively impersonate the victim and manipulate sensitive information, carry out transactions, and more. Using a good VPN protects your online sessions, preventing hackers from getting their hands on your session identifier in the first place.

4. Fake Wi-Fi hotspots

Hackers often set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots (such as “Free McDonalds Wi-Fi” to trick people into connecting. When you use these hotspots, your data goes through the hacker’s system, letting them see everything you do online. 

A high-quality VPN helps prevent this by encrypting your data, and turning it into unreadable code to anyone intercepting it. So, even if you are connected to a fake hotspot, your activities remain completely private and secure.

What else can you do to protect yourself against hackers?

A VPN provides an additional layer of defense, but there are ways to improve your security further. Here are some tips you should keep in mind: 

1. Keep your software updated

Keeping your software, including VPN and antivirus programs, regularly updated is crucial. These updates are more than just feature enhancements; they patch security vulnerabilities. Promptly responding to update notifications is a key step in maintaining a robust digital defense

2. Enable firewalls

Most modern-day computers are equipped with built-in firewalls. These are designed to monitor and control your digital traffic, allowing or blocking data packets based on established security rules. By enabling the firewall, you can stay safe against external threats, block malicious programs, and prevent unwanted traffic.

3. Use antivirus software

Antivirus software protects your device from various online dangers. It constantly works in the background, scanning for and removing harmful software like viruses and ransomware. Keeping your antivirus updated is key, as it adapts to tackle the latest cyber threats, offering you continuous and up-to-date protection.

4. Secure your router

Enhancing the security of your home Wi-Fi network is critical. Utilize the latest security protocols like WPA3, which acts as a gatekeeper, allowing only password-authenticated devices to connect. 

For more security, consider updating your Wi-Fi password periodically with a strong, complex combination. Additionally, keeping your router firmware updated and monitoring for unauthorized devices is advisable.

4. Be careful on public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks pose significant security risks. When using these networks, ensure your VPN is active to safeguard your connection. It is also wise to avoid accessing sensitive information, like banking details, on public networks to minimize the risk of data interception.

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