Researchers have discovered several flaws in popular VPN apps that may have exposed users to hackers, allowing them to remotely install malicious updates and ransomware. Experts say that the best VPN apps, including PrivateVPN and Betternet, have been found to be able to download fake software updates that force users to install malware, keyloggers, etc., which ultimately helped steal private data. Other VPN apps like Torguard, CyberGhost, Hotspot Shield, and Hide Me have also been shown to be vulnerable, allowing researchers to intercept communication. Betternet and PrivateVPN were reported in February 2020, after which the flaws were fixed, however, VPNpro claims that "instead of protecting their users' data, PrivateVPN and Betternet have ignored a crucial security aspect that allows actors to malicious steal data or make things worse."
Vulnerable VPNs
Even though PrivateVPN didn't just download a fake software update, it installed it without notifying you. Betternet, on the other hand, downloaded the fake app, but sent a notification to the user to update the desktop app. Once installed, it would be very easy for hackers to collect and steal personal data, process unauthorized payments, install ransomware on the device, or use the system for various illegal activities. . Other VPN apps like ExpressVPN, Surfshark, NordVPN, Tunnel Bear, IPVanish, PIA, Windscribe, Ivacy, HMA, VyprVPN, ProtonVPN, TurboVPN, PureVPN, and Hola VPN that were part of this test proved to be safe and were not. He had no vulnerability. VPNpro claims that the researchers were unable to intercept the connection made with these VPNs. To ensure security, experts advise not to download anything, especially software updates while connected to free or public Wi-Fi, and suggest "to be very safe and not use public Wi-Fi at all, or to make sure that the Wi-Fi you're connected to "You're connecting whether you're actually from the coffee shop, the airport, or anywhere. This is an important step you can take, but it can be hard to verify the free Wi-Fi you're using." Via: VPNPro Everything: Best VPN #1 Balance of Options and ease of use Torrent and P2P traffic