The good news is it does hide some things. The bad news … It’s not nearly as private as you’d think.
Why you can’t access some sites while you’re on a VPN and what to do

Let’s say you’re browsing the web with a VPN. You’re protecting privacy, so you’re confident hackers and advertisers can’t track you. Then you try to go to a site, and it just won’t load.
This can throw a wrench into productivity when working. Or it can ruin your mood when trying to have fun online.
If you want to bypass those infuriating errors that say, “The page you are looking for can’t be found,” we can help. Here’s what to do when a VPN stops site access.
Why you can’t access certain content with a VPN
You can’t access certain apps or websites when your VPN is on for a few reasons. First, you may be dealing with connectivity issues. Perhaps the VPN you’re using is having server issues.
Some sites go out of their way to block connections from VPN servers. The site owners aren’t trying to make your life harder. They block VPNs to cover their backsides. (Legally, not literally.)
Many websites block VPNs because they don’t want to break their contracts. Simply put, many VPN users want to bypass geo-blocking features.
Say you want to watch content that isn’t available in the U.S. If your favorite show is available in the U.K., you can connect to a server there so your internet can access that show. Tap or click here to unlock international Netflix to access more movies and shows.
Streaming sites don’t like this. It lands them in hot water with the production companies they team up with. Here’s why:
- Streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu have long and complicated contracts with production companies.
- Those contracts may involve location limits as part of licensing contracts. Production companies often have stipulations like, “You can stream this show, but only in Canada since we don’t want it in the U.S.”
- Certain websites/services, like PayPal, Venmo and CashApp, identify users for legal purposes through their IP addresses. This is used to resolve problems such as fraud.
Incognito mode doesn't do what you might think - Here's the truth
I know that I use Incognito mode from time to time. And while I’m not going to ask you what you’ve used it for, I assume you’ve used it, too. It serves a purpose, but here’s what it doesn’t do: Make you invisible. And that’s coming straight from Google.
'Does incognito keep me private?'
Google will destroy billions of Incognito mode data
They said the data was impossible to find … until a judge ruled on a class-action settlement. Plus, we talk with Guy Kawasaki, Apple’s first Mac marketer, about his book “Think Remarkable” and becoming remarkable yourself!
Incognito mode doesn't do what you might think
Incognito mode in your browser serves a purpose. I show you what it doesn’t do in this short podcast.
Incognito mode isn't private
Use it for all your embarrassing searches? Here’s why it’s not as stealthy as you think.