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That Free VPN Could Be Spying on You

How malicious apps disguise themselves as privacy tools—and what you need to know to stay safe

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Apple Secrets
Nov 18, 2025
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A VPN should be your safeguard online, shielding your activity from prying eyes. But what if the very app you trust for privacy is actually watching you instead? Security experts and recent advisories are sounding a clear alarm: many free VPN apps, especially those that look legitimate, are actually sophisticated spyware operations. These apps betray user trust, harvesting the sensitive data they claim to protect.

Free VPNs can do real harm. Rather than securely routing your traffic, rogue VPNs can install malware such as infostealers and remote access trojans. Once on your device, this malicious software may capture your browsing history, financial logins, or even access your cryptocurrency wallets. The disturbing reality: an app downloaded to guard your privacy can instead offer a direct line for criminals to everything you want to keep safe.

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