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VPN Recommendations

Our Focus

What to look for in a trustworthy VPN

  • No-logs policy (ideally audited by a third party)

  • Strong encryption (e.g. AES-256 or ChaCha20)

  • Modern tunneling protocols (like WireGuard or OpenVPN)

  • Based in a privacy-friendly jurisdiction (see policy-based backdoors)

  • Open-source apps or independently audited code

  • Clear, user-friendly privacy policy

  • Transparency reports or warrant canaries

  • Avoid VPNs with vague policies or histories of cooperating with surveillance

Red Flags: When to be skeptical of a VPN

  • Free VPNs with no clear revenue model (e.g. Hola VPN)

  • Providers based in countries with strong surveillance laws (e.g. Russia, China)

  • Lack of audits or transparency reports

  • Broad or unclear data collection clauses in the privacy policy

Most important reasons for using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in the United States from 2021 to 2023

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This bar chart displays the most important reasons for using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) in the United States from 2021 to 2023, based on responses from American adults. Security, privacy, and workplace-related needs dominate VPN usage, with a noticeable increase across nearly all categories over the three-year span, indicating growing awareness and reliance on VPNs among U.S. users.

Most popular Virtual Private Network (VPN)
in the United States in 2024

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This chart shows the most widely used VPN services among American users in 2024. While popularity may reflect ease of use or brand recognition, it's important to remember that popularity doesn't always equal privacy. Users should still review a VPN's logging practices, encryption standards, and jurisdiction before choosing a provider.

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