Think you’re browsing privately? Nope. Your internet provider tracks everything you do online. ExpressVPN reroutes your connection through secure servers, so no one can see what you’re doing. It’s one-click privacy protection that actually works. Get 4 extra months when you sign up.
Why your VPN isn’t enough
ChatGPT
“Hi, Kim, I’ve heard you talk about VPNs. Will using one make me anonymous online?” — Dennis in Texas
Great question, Dennis, and one a lot of people ask. A VPN (virtual private network) is one of the best tools for privacy, but it’s not a magic invisibility cloak. There’s a lot of hype out there, so let’s set the record straight.
🚫 Myth #1: ‘I’m anonymous.’
Nope. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, but websites still recognize you through cookies, browser fingerprinting and account logins.
A VPN hides where you are, not who you are. Combine it with private browsers, tracker blockers and good password habits.
⚠️ Myth #2: ‘I’m virus free.’
A VPN secures your connection, especially on public Wi‑Fi, but it won’t save you from clicking a bad link or downloading malware. Think of it as a safe passage for your data, not a shield against every threat.
You still need to keep your antivirus running and your skepticism dialed up.
💸 Myth #3: ‘Free VPNs are just as good.’
If you’re not paying, you’re the product. Free VPNs often log and sell your data, inject ads or use weak encryption. Plus, many are from China where they grab a copy of everything on your device.
A legit VPN provider earns its keep through subscriptions, not by harvesting your info.
🎯 What a VPN actually does
VPNs: How they work and how to choose the best one for you
© Fizkes | Dreamstime
I’m sure you’ve heard me mention VPNs before on my show. With hackers, thieves and scammers constantly out in full force, ready to steal your money, now’s the time to get on board.
VPN is short for virtual private network. What this means is when doing your banking online, hackers can’t step in the middle and steal your account information and drain your money. A VPN also stops your internet provider from tracking you and lets you unblock websites and bypass filters. You need it on your computer, laptop, tablet and phone.
Lock it down: ExpressVPN is my go-to for online privacy. With one click, everything you do is hidden from hackers, snoops, even your internet provider. Right now, you’ll get 4 months FREE!
5 ways to increase your PC's download speed
You may have a poor internet connection if downloads take forever to reach 100%. Outages or poorly-constructed websites could also be to blame. Whatever the cause is, try these tricks to increase the download speed on your PC.
Restart your internet the right way: Unplug both your modem and router, then wait 30 seconds. Plug in the modem first and wait 60 seconds until the lights are back. Then plug in your router and wait two minutes. Still no luck? Time to call your internet provider.
❗ Is it just you? Use Downdetector to check if a service is down, like your internet provider, Netflix or social media apps. Just type the name in the search box.