Free VPN apps might seem like a no-brainer: no cost, instant download, promise of privacy and access. But recent research shows that many free-VPN apps are far from safe. A study by Zimperium found that some of these apps are riddled with serious privacy and security flaws — including unencrypted traffic, embedded trackers, insecure code, and in some cases full device-compromise potential. For users relying on a free VPN to protect their IP, encrypt their browsing or bypass restrictions, this is a significant wake-up call. The keyword here is clear: free VPN risk.
The findings: What the study uncovered
According to Infosecurity Magazine’s coverage of the Zimperium research, dozens of free VPN apps were analysed and many exhibited “critical” security vulnerabilities. The issues included:
Use of weak or non-existent encryption – meaning traffic may not be securely routed through the VPN.
Hidden trackers and analytics modules that collect data even during “private” or “incognito” sessions.
Insecure permissions and sandboxing – some apps allowed external apps to access VPN APIs and tunnel configurations.
Some VPN apps marketed “free & unlimited” but actually contained in-app purchases or throttle limits once usage grew.
Lack of transparency around logging practices, company jurisdiction, and server infrastructure.
One blog post summarised: “Free VPNs are safe? Not always. Unfortunately, it is extremely common for free VPN apps to track users and misuse their data.” In effect, users trading “free” for “privacy” may be getting the opposite.
Why “free” often means trade-offs
Why are these issues prevalent? Free VPN apps face an economic challenge: encrypting traffic, maintaining tunnels, operating servers — these all cost money. To stay viable, free-VPN providers may rely on alternative revenue streams: ad-tracking, data collection, affiliate marketing, or sideloading insecure code.
In contrast, paid VPN services typically operate under clearer business models (subscription revenue), undergo independent audits, and offer stronger privacy guarantees. For example, premium providers highlight “zero-logs” policies, audited code, kill-switches, and large server fleets.
Comparisons: Free vs paid VPN
FeatureFree VPN apps (study cohort)Paid VPN servicesEncryption strengthOften basic or absentStrong, up-to-date cryptography (e.g., AES-256, WireGuard)Logging/transparencyPoorly disclosedIndependent audits, transparent policiesRevenue modelAd/data collection, hidden costsSubscriptions, clear pricingServer infrastructureLimited, unpredictableGlobal, high-performanceSecurity updatesSlow, infrequentRegular, proactive patches
While free VPNs aren’t inherently bad, the disparity in risk and protection is real — especially when users depend on them for sensitive use-cases like remote work, public WiFi, or privacy from surveillance.
What users should watch for
Security experts recommending caution note that VPN use by itself isn’t a guarantee. One researcher commented: “Many users assume a VPN solves all online privacy problems — but if the VPN app is extracting your data or leaking traffic, the benefit disappears.” (paraphrased)
Here are practical tips:
Check the provider’s jurisdiction — where are they based legally?
Review the logging policy — do they collect metadata, IPs or device identifiers?
Run leak tests (IP, DNS, WebRTC) after installing a VPN app.
Avoid VPNs that are free forever without a viable business model — ask how they fund operations.
Prefer VPNs audited by independent firms, with published reports.
For mission-critical privacy (e.g., legal, business, activism), invest in a paid, vetted service rather than relying solely on a free one.
Learn more than Global VPN use hits 1.7-1.8 billion users in 2025
Conclusion
Free VPN apps can be tempting, but this recent study puts a spotlight on the hidden dangers of “too good to be true” offers. The keyword “free VPN risk” now carries weight: if your VPN isn’t transparently run, audited, and supported financially, it might expose you instead of protecting you. Whether you’re streaming safely, working remotely, or simply browsing from public WiFi, treat your VPN as a critical security component — not just a convenience. Choose wisely, check your app’s credentials, and above all, remember: privacy isn’t free. It’s backed by trust, infrastructure and accountability.
