Do you need a VPN on your phone? A deep dive into mobile security
July 21, 2024
You might already use a virtual private network (VPN) on your computer to encrypt your data, protect your IP address, and access geographically restricted websites. But do you need a VPN on your phone, too?
While VPNs enhance security in some ways, they can’t do everything, even on your computer. They don’t secure your login information, mask your credit card number, or protect against identity theft — meaning a VPN isn’t even close to enough online security. They also don’t prevent common cyber crimes like phishing or hacks.
Here’s everything you need to know about using a VPN on your phone and whether it’s worth it.
What’s a VPN?
A VPN creates a secure and private internet connection, so when your data travels from one place to another, nobody can intercept it. It also masks your IP address so websites and hackers can’t see where you are, protecting your location and giving you access to a more global internet.
VPNs essentially make it harder — though not impossible — for cyber criminals to access your sensitive information. If you fall victim to a phishing scam and give away sensitive login information, or a cyber criminal accesses your credit card and steals your money, a VPN can’t protect you. But it does limit the chances that someone intercepts your information while it’s in transit.
To really stay safe online, you need a comprehensive app like IronVest. It masks your phone and email, tokenizes your debit and credit card numbers with virtual cards, and offers biometric authentication — just to name a few of its functions.
How does a VPN work on a phone?
VPNs do boost your security and privacy, and they work the same on your phone as they do on your computer. But to understand what a VPN is on a phone, you have to know more about how it works:
VPN protocols
Protocols dictate how your data transmits over the network, which creates more secure connections. There are quite a few popular protocols out there. OpenVPN, whic is renowned for its balance of speed and security. IKEv2 has high-speed performance — ideal for mobile VPNs because it efficiently handles network switches.
Encryption methods
Encryption scrambles your data, so it's unreadable to anyone who might intercept it. Most VPNs use advanced encryption standards like AES-256, which is the same one government agencies use for securing classified information — in other words, it’s pretty strong. This means that your data, whether that’s browsing history, personal messages, or financial transactions, remains confidential.
Server networks
VPN providers maintain networks of servers across the world. When you connect to a VPN server, it masks your IP address, and your data appears to originate from the server's location. That way, cyber criminals and websites can’t see your actual location. But the main benefit here is that you can more easily access geo-restricted content, like websites that aren’t available in your country.
Kill switch feature
Many VPN apps include a kill switch, which automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This makes sure your data stays safe when security fails, maintaining continuous protection.
Split tunneling
Some VPNs offer split tunneling, allowing you to choose which apps or websites go through the VPN connection and which use your regular internet connection. This is handy for accessing local websites while using services from other areas of the world.
Why do you need a VPN on your phone?
Your smartphone is a hub for personal and professional activities, so don’t neglect its security. Here's why having a VPN on your phone can improve your online safety:
Privacy protection: VPNs encrypt your data, making your online activities unreadable to outsiders. This is particularly helpful when you’re using an unsecured public Wi-Fi network — an easy target for hackers.
Access to restricted content: Some content is region-specific, whether a streaming service or a local news website. VPNs can mask your IP and therefore your geographical location, allowing you to access a world of content with no regional boundaries.
Secure communication: With cyber threats like identity theft and eavesdropping becoming more common, you need to secure your communications. A VPN can help keep emails, messages, and calls relatively private.
Safe online transactions: When you conduct transactions over a VPN — like transferring money or logging into a bank account — your data is encrypted, which adds a layer of protection.
Anonymity online: A VPN can help you maintain anonymity and avoid sharing too much information online, preventing advertisers and websites from tracking your behavior.
While there are benefits to using a VPN, just remember that this tool isn’t an all-encompassing security solution. Someone could still find a way to log into your accounts and steal from you, like through phishing. On top of that, not all VPNs are created equal. You could end up giving your data and money to a VPN provider that either doesn’t work or just wants to take your information.
How do you use a VPN on your phone?
It’s not a comprehensive security solution, but downloading a VPN to your smartphone can protect some of your activities. Just follow these steps:
Choosing a VPN service: Select a reputable VPN provider. Services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN are popular because of their robust security features and user-friendly interfaces, but you do have to pay for them. While free VPNs are out there, they may have limitations in speed and security compared to paid services.
Installation: Once you've chosen a provider, download its VPN app from the App Store or Google Play.
Account creation and subscription: After installation, create an account. Most VPN providers offer various subscription plans, so choose one that fits your needs — though in most cases, the most expensive plans have the strongest security.
Configuration and connection: Once you’re logged in and ready to implement the service, the app will usually prompt you to select a server location. Choose one that suits your activities — for example, if you want to access content available only in a specific country, choose a server in that country. In most cases, there will be a button or a switch to officially connect you to the server, and you’ll easily be able to turn the VPN off if you don’t want to use it.
Regular updates and maintenance: Keep the app updated to ensure you have the latest security features. It’s a good idea to turn on automatic updates so you never miss a new feature and have the fastest version of the app possible.
When should you use a VPN on your phone?
There are a few scenarios in which a VPN is the best way to protect certain information or browse the way you want. Here are some key ways to use a VPN:
To avoid being tracked: As online privacy becomes increasingly scarce, a VPN can shield your browsing habits and personal information from advertisers and data collectors.
When accessing region-blocked content: A VPN reroutes your internet connection through servers in different countries, allowing you to access content that would otherwise be unavailable in your location.
For encrypted communication on public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks, which you’ll often find in cafes, airports, and hotels, aren’t always secure. Bad actors can access those networks and use them to infiltrate your device. A strong VPN encrypts your data and protects it from malicious interception.
During sensitive online transactions: Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security if you're doing any online banking or shopping. It encrypts your personal and financial details, safeguarding them from theft.
Digital security is more than VPNs
“VPN” is a huge buzzword in the online security world — and while this tool can help you live a safer life online, it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
If you’re looking for a broader spectrum of online protection, try IronVest. This security super app provides an advanced suite of tools that extend way beyond standard VPNs and password managers. Get IronVest today and take a proactive step toward digital safety.