Do all VPNs keep logs?

There is no entirely no-logs VPN. Most providers will store unidentifiable information such as data usage and connection timestamp. This data cannot be used to identify you or trace your browsing activities. Instead, providers use it to run operations and improve services. Therefore, you should only be concerned if your VPN keeps identifiable information like your IP address and the sites you visit. Luckily, the VPNs featured on this list have a no-logs policy. Some even support anonymous payments through cryptocurrency.

What is the benefit of an independent audit?

As mentioned, some VPNs use independent auditing firms to verify their security features and privacy policy. The firms thoroughly assess and examine the VPN for leaks and weaknesses. They then release an unbiased report about the VPN service.

How will we know whether the VPN is keeping logs?

Check if your VPN is keeping logs in its privacy policy. It should clearly state the information the provider stores. The downside is that many VPNs lie about their logging practices and might be storing your data. Fortunately, the VPNs we recommend in this guide have a proven record of the no-logs policy.

What types of logs should I be concerned with?

Your online activity logs are the ones you should be worried about. They include search queries, web history, etc., that can be used to monitor your activities. You should avoid any VPN that logs any of your identifiable information. The other logs you should consider are the metadata. These include your IP address, connection timestamp, and IP address of the server you connect to. The information can be used to identify you and trace your online activities. Last but not least is the diagnostic logs. That is the information the VPN provider uses to run the network and improve the services. The data collected include the date (not time), amount of data transferred, and the last location connected.

Do free VPNs keep logs?

There are thousands of free VPNs on the market, but we advise you to avoid them altogether. First of all, many of them don't have a clear-cut logging policy. Some have been caught red-handed collecting and selling users' information. Moreover, they use inferior security features, exposing your data and activities to all sundry.

Will I get in trouble with authorities for using a VPN?

Using a VPN is legal in most countries around the world. Not unless you live somewhere like China and Belarus, where you can get into hot waters using a VPN. These countries ban VPN usage and have heavy internet surveillance. That said, a VPN will not protect you from doing illegal activities, no matter where you live. It should be a way to maintain your online security and privacy, but not for unlawful purposes.

What are the benefits of using a VPN?

Although VPNs are privacy tools, they are helpful in many other ways. Connecting to a server in another country can bypass geo-restrictions and access your favorite content. For instance, you can connect to US servers to unblock Netflix US. In addition, a VPN will also offer protection if you use a public Wi-Fi hotspot frequently to access the internet.

Are no-logs VPNs legal?

Yes, they are entirely legal in all countries where VPNs are permitted unless the providers are headquartered in a country with mandatory data retention policies. Since most no-logs VPNs are based in privacy-friendly regions, they are not bound to retain data and fall into legal controversy.

Why do VPNs keep data logs?

VPN providers must maintain user logs for service performance and maintenance issues. For instance, they must log the subscribers' payment information for subscription processing. Likewise, they must collect general browsing patterns and other non-identifiable information for service improvements and marketing purposes.

Is it safe to use a no-logs VPN?

Yes, VPNs with a demonstrated and strict no-logs policy are safe. They ensure that your information and browsing data remain private, keeping online trackers, hackers, and surveillance entities at bay.

Can I get hacked with a no-logs VPN?

VPN isn't a fool-proof anti-hacking solution. So, even when using a no-logs VPN, you may face a hacking attack. However, using a VPN minimizes the risk of such attacks via IP tracking since it masks your real IP. Moreover, it encrypts your data in transit, alleviating the sudden exposure of your sensitive details to prying eyes. However, it cannot protect you from cyber threats happening via other means, such as malware attacks or phishing.

The 10 Best No-logs VPNs to Use in 2024 (Goodbye Tracking)

Ruheni Mathenge - Streaming Expert

Last updated: February 11, 2024

Are you concerned with your online privacy? These best zero-logs VPN services will help you conduct your internet activities privately.

THE TAKEAWAYS

Though VPNs should protect your online privacy, their entire purpose fails when you fall for a data-logging VPN. And unfortunately, that’s what most VPNs (primarily free VPNs and some paid VPNs) do today for monetization. So, if you want to genuinely enjoy a private internet experience without fearing online tracking, intrusive ads, and government surveillance, you must use a VPN that implements a strict no-logs policy. That’s what this detailed guide elaborates on – the best no-logs VPNs.

Almost all VPNs work by encrypting your traffic and routing it through secure servers before it reaches its destination. So, even if your connection is intercepted, the traffic will seem to originate from the VPN server rather than your device.

Nothing stops a provider from logging your data and recording your activities. Therefore, choose a VPN with a no-logs policy if you value your privacy. We thoroughly researched over 50 services to find the 10 with a valid zero-logs policy.

Short on time right now? These are the top 3 log-less VPNs

NordVPN – Strong emphasis on privacy and security, budget-friendly, 30-day money-back guarantee.
ExpressVPN – Our top recommended no-logs VPN. Strict no-logs policy, fast speed servers, robust security, incredible unblocking capability.
Private Internet Access (PIA) – Double encryption mode, automatic kill switch, does not keep logs of users’ data, largest server network.

And 7 more | The evaluation criteria | FAQs

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