Will using a VPN protect my iPhone from hackers?

Is a VPN a foolproof way to defeat hackers?

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At its foundation, aVPNis a piece of software that secures your internet connection and better protects your device. It’s a buffer against the nasties of the internet, and you’ll certainly be better off with aniPhone VPNthan without. But will it protect yourApplesmartphone from hackers?

We explain below the ways a VPN can - and can’t - have your back against hackers, and the different kinds of cyberattacks you can experience when being hacked.

What hackers can a VPN protect your iPhone against?

A VPN works by changing yourIP addressand encrypting your online activity. There are certain forms of hacking, then, that thebest VPNsare reliable in protecting you against where hackers require your IP address. These include:

It’s worth noting if for whatever reason a hacker already knows your IP address, a VPN can’t protect you against these kinds of attacks, and you should instead speak to your Internet Service Provider.

What hacking attacks are VPNs less well equipped for?

It’s fair to say hackers can be scarily sophisticated these days - whether targetingiPhonesor any other internet-connected devices - and a lot of internet safety can come down to common sense and being extra vigilant. This much is true when it comes to malware and phishing, where the fundamentals of a VPN’s IP spoofing abilities don’t offer the same realm of protection. That’s because this comes down to the websites you choose to visit, and avoiding clicking on certain links in dodgy emails, or downloading dangerous files.

That said, a lot of VPN providers go the extra mile to equip users with features that can tackle these safety concerns. For instance,NordVPNhas its Threat Protection suite that works to detect sites that might host malware, as well as checking any files you download, and is available on Nord’s iPhone client.

Other services offer similar features that can help to diminish the possibility of being hacked via phishing and malware includingSurfshark. Its CleanWeb tool allows you to “surf in a clean cyber ocean with no ads, trackers, malware and phishing attempts”.

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Similarly,Proton VPNhas its own adblocker it calls NetShield, a DNS filtering tool than not only blocks ads, but also detects malware and prevents website trackers from following your online behavior.

Can a VPN on my iPhone protect me against hackers?

While a VPN can certainly offer a stronger connection that makes you less susceptible to particular hacking approaches, it’s not a foolproof way to protect your iPhone from external dangers infiltrating your device. For more complete protection, you should equip your devices withantivirusand firewalls for more comprehensive protection against online threats.

Alice is eCommerce Editor at Future with a focus on streaming services, such asDisney PlusandHBO Max, and VPN. She predominantly writes buying and streaming service guides, as well as how to watch articles. Previously a Commercial Content Writer at Trusted Reviews, Alice has five years experience giving online buying advice, and over two years writing about consumer tech.

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