Introduction
In today’s digital landscape, questions about online privacy have never been more pressing. Many users wonder does protonvpn sell data and how that impacts their anonymity. The same concerns extend to corporate and government scrutiny, especially in regions like China, the US, and the EU.
The phrase does protonvpn sell data often pops up in search queries because of the public debate over VPN logging practices. While ProtonVPN markets itself as a privacy‑centric provider, critics ask whether its service truly protects user information from external threats.
Understanding the protonvpn privacy policy is essential before trusting the service with sensitive traffic. In this article, we will examine the policy, evaluate logs retention, and provide a detailed step‑by‑step guide to setting up ProtonVPN for maximum security.
We’ll also explore whether ProtonVPN’s data practices meet the expectations of users in different geographies, such as the United Kingdom’s GDPR, the United States’ Section 230, and China’s strict cyber‑security laws. Finally, we’ll offer alternatives for those who want to be certain that no data is sold or stored.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for a Privacy‑First ProtonVPN Setup
1. Create a ProtonVPN Account
Begin by visiting the ProtonVPN website and signing up for an account. Opt for a free trial or a paid plan depending on your needs. The sign‑up process is straightforward, but always double‑check that the email and password are strong.
When you see the question does ProtonVPN keep logs in your mind, remember that ProtonVPN claims a no‑logs policy. However, you should confirm this by reviewing their public statement and the protonvpn privacy policy for precise details.
After account creation, ProtonVPN will send a verification email. Click the link to confirm your email address before proceeding.
2. Download and Install the Client
Navigate to the download section on the ProtonVPN website. The client is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Choose the appropriate version for your device and install it.
During installation, pay attention to the permissions requested. The app should only need network access and not file or location permissions. This is a good check for privacy‑conscious users asking does protonvpn sell data or whether the service is collecting more than it promises.
Once installed, launch the application and log in with your newly created credentials.
3. Adjust Privacy Settings
Open the client settings and navigate to the “Preferences” tab. Turn on “Secure Core” if you’re in a high‑risk environment or traveling across borders. This feature routes traffic through multiple servers, mitigating the chance of local eavesdropping.
Enable “Kill Switch” to automatically block all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops. This stops data leakage and ensures your real IP address is never exposed.
Check the “DNS Leak Protection” option. This setting ensures that DNS queries are also routed through ProtonVPN servers, preventing external DNS snooping.
4. Choose a Server Wisely
ProtonVPN offers servers in over 60 countries. If you’re in the United Kingdom, you might prefer a server in Ireland or Germany to remain compliant with GDPR. If you’re traveling to China, be aware that does protonvpn work in China may be limited due to local censorship.
For maximum speed, select a server close to your location but consider the privacy jurisdiction. Swiss servers, for example, benefit from strong privacy laws.
To avoid government surveillance, avoid servers in the US or Russia unless you trust the local legal framework.
5. Verify Security and Speed
After connecting, perform a speed test using a reputable tool like Cloudflare Learning. Compare the results with and without the VPN to ensure performance meets your expectations.
Run a DNS leak test on EFF website to confirm that your DNS queries are not leaking outside the ProtonVPN network.
Finally, perform a basic privacy audit by visiting “whatismyipaddress.com” to confirm that your IP, country, and ISP are masked.
6. Optional Advanced Configurations
Use the “Split Tunneling” feature to route only certain apps through ProtonVPN. This is useful if you need to access local services while maintaining privacy for sensitive traffic.
Enable “IPv6 Leak Protection” for devices that support IPv6. This stops any accidental leaks that could expose your real location.
Consider using the ProtonVPN “Bridge” feature if you face network restrictions that block standard VPN protocols.
Tips for Maximizing ProtonVPN Security and Privacy
Use a unique, long password for ProtonVPN and enable two‑factor authentication (2FA) via Google Authenticator or similar apps. This adds an extra layer of security to your account.
Keep your client up to date. ProtonVPN regularly releases patches that fix vulnerabilities and improve performance. Neglecting updates could leave your device exposed.
Change your default VPN protocol to “OpenVPN” or “WireGuard” based on your security preference. WireGuard is lighter but might be flagged by some ISPs. OpenVPN remains widely supported.
Use ProtonVPN’s “Tor over VPN” option if you need deeper anonymity. This routes traffic through the Tor network after exiting the ProtonVPN server.
Check your local firewall to ensure that it blocks unwanted outbound traffic when the VPN is disconnected. This reinforces the Kill Switch functionality.
Regularly audit your device for malware or spyware that could override VPN connections. A clean OS is essential to trust that the VPN is the sole guardian of your privacy.
Alternative Methods for Data‑Secure Internet Access
If you still harbor doubts about whether ProtonVPN truly safeguards your data, consider the following alternatives:
- Use a privacy‑focused browser like Mozilla Firefox with built‑in tracking protection.
- Combine Tor with a reputable VPN for “double encryption.” Ensure that Tor is used last, i.e., “VPN + Tor.”
- Consider other no‑log VPNs such as Private Internet Access or Tor Browser itself.
- For enterprise users, look into Cisco AnyConnect or Palo Alto Networks solutions with strict logging policies.
- Deploy a self‑hosted VPN using OpenVPN on a VPS located in a privacy‑friendly jurisdiction.
Conclusion
In the age of data commodification, asking does protonvpn sell data is a valid concern for any user. By following the detailed steps above and reviewing the protonvpn privacy policy, you can confidently determine whether ProtonVPN’s practices align with your expectations.
Remember that the no‑logs policy, combined with features such as Secure Core, Kill Switch, and DNS leak protection, reduces the likelihood of data sale or unauthorized access. However, the ultimate guarantee comes from transparency and independent audits, which ProtonVPN provides through external partners.
Should you still feel uneasy, the alternative methods described provide additional layers of protection or a different VPN provider that may better fit your needs. Whether you’re a casual user in the United States, a journalist in the United Kingdom, or a citizen in China, staying informed about the privacy implications of VPN services is crucial.
Ultimately, the answer to whether does ProtonVPN sell data hinges on its stated no‑logs policy and its compliance with local regulations. By staying vigilant and leveraging the steps outlined, you can enjoy a more secure, private internet experience regardless of your geographic location.
