In the realm of digital privacy and security, relying solely on a VPN and personal vigilance may leave you exposed to a myriad of online threats, including phishing, malware, identity theft, and ransomware. To establish a robust defense, it is essential to assemble a comprehensive suite of privacy and security tools.
A trustworthy VPN serves as an excellent starting point, enhancing your online privacy by encrypting internet traffic and concealing your true IP address. However, it is merely one component of a larger security strategy. A VPN cannot prevent you from inadvertently entering personal information on a phishing site, safeguard your device against malware downloads, or manage your online login credentials. Similarly, antivirus software alone cannot protect you from the dangers posed by weak, easily compromised passwords. For optimal protection, consider integrating multiple services such as a password manager, antivirus software, cloud storage, secure email, and identity protection.
Traditionally, acquiring these services meant sourcing them from various providers. While this segmented approach remains valid, several VPN companies have streamlined the process by offering bundled privacy and security services under one roof.
What services can you bundle with your VPN?
Each VPN provider has its unique approach to bundling, and not all offer the same array of tools. Some VPNs restrict access to additional services unless bundled, while others allow for more flexibility, enabling you to select individual services. The choice of provider will largely depend on your specific needs. Typically, VPN bundles may include:
Password Managers
A password manager simplifies your online security by allowing you to remember just one password. It generates strong passwords and keeps track of your login credentials for various accounts, significantly reducing the risk of falling victim to brute force and credential-stuffing attacks.
Antivirus
An effective antivirus program is crucial for protecting your device from malware, which can compromise your activity, control your device, or steal sensitive data. A good antivirus solution continuously updates to counter the latest threats, scanning for and blocking malware before it can infect your system.
Encrypted Cloud Storage
With cloud storage, you can securely access files from anywhere without the need for a physical hard drive. Some VPN providers offer encrypted cloud storage options that ensure your files are protected with end-to-end encryption, safeguarding them during transfer and while stored on secure servers.
Traditional email communication often lacks security, as it was not designed with privacy in mind. Secure email providers, such as Proton Mail, utilize end-to-end encryption to ensure that only you can access your messages, even allowing for password-protected emails to recipients using non-secure services.
Identity Protection
Identity protection services encompass features like data removal, dark web monitoring, identity theft insurance, SSN monitoring, credit monitoring, and credit reports. While many of these services can be accessed individually, having a comprehensive suite can provide added convenience and peace of mind.
Why you might want to bundle other services with your VPN
For those serious about online privacy and security, a single tool is insufficient. At a minimum, a combination of a VPN, password manager, and antivirus is advisable. Bundling these services may offer several advantages:
Convenience
The primary appeal of bundling is convenience. Managing all your tools through a single provider means only one login and subscription to track, eliminating the hassle of juggling multiple accounts. This approach also ensures a consistent user experience across services and simplifies customer support interactions.
Easy Access to Additional Privacy and Security Tools
Bundling can facilitate a smoother introduction to various privacy and security tools, especially for beginners. It encourages users to explore additional services they might not have considered otherwise. Privacy International has expressed optimism about how bundled services can increase awareness and accessibility of privacy tools.
Potential Cost Savings
While the cost of comprehensive online privacy and security can vary widely, bundling may offer financial benefits. Even if a bundled subscription is slightly more expensive than a custom combination, the convenience of a single ecosystem might justify the additional cost.
Why you may want to go á la carte
Conversely, there are valid reasons to consider an á la carte approach. Sometimes, selecting individual providers may better suit your needs:
Potential Cost Savings
While bundling can save money, opting for individual subscriptions may not necessarily be more expensive. With diligent research, you might discover high-quality services that collectively cost less than a bundled option.
Is it Safe to Put All of Your Privacy and Security Eggs in One Basket?
Trusting a single entity with your entire portfolio of privacy and security services raises questions about safety. A data breach, company acquisition, or policy change could jeopardize your information. Diversifying your services may mitigate these risks.
Do You Trust the Quality of Your VPN Company’s Other Services?
It is essential to assess whether you trust the additional services offered by your VPN provider. Established companies in the antivirus, password management, and secure email sectors may provide more reliable options than newer offerings from VPN providers.
Your VPN’s Bundles Might Not Check All the Boxes You Need
Even if you trust your VPN provider, it may not offer all the services you require. If you are already satisfied with your current tools, switching to a VPN bundle may not be necessary. Fortunately, many VPNs offer basic tiers for those who prefer a VPN-only option.
