How do I know if I'm using a cracked VPN?

You can identify a cracked VPN in several ways if you didn't download one yourself. First, you can't access all its features, and its size may be bigger than the genuine version. Besides, it may be a cracked version if you receive numerous pop-ups after connecting to your VPN.

Can a VPN be decrypted?

It depends on the level of encryption that the VPN uses. High-end, premium VPNs, such as ExpressVPN and PIA, use AES-256 encryption, currently the most advanced form of data encryption. Even the fastest supercomputers will require a long time to decrypt this, making them highly safe and secure.

Are free VPNs cracked VPNs?

Free VPNs are different from cracked VPNs. A free VPN has its name, list of features, and functionality it offers at no cost. However, it often fails to provide the level of security and privacy that premium VPNs offer. Moreover, using a free VPN has most of the risks of using a cracked VPN, such as adware and privacy risks. Nonetheless, while a free VPN can be cracked, it's usually unnecessary since it is already free. Cracked VPNs, especially the maliciously crafted variants, are usually successful in luring users when they offer premium VPNs.

VPNs encrypt your online data and reroute the traffic through a secure tunnel. This tunnel is typically a physical server that hides your IP address and tricks ISPs and other snoopers into believing you're in a different location.

Cracked VPN: What is It, What are Its Drawbacks?

Abeerah Hashim - Security Expert

Last updated: April 28, 2024

Read time: 14 minutes

This is an estimated reading time to let you know how long it will take you to read all the content on this particular PrivacySavvy.com page. However, it has a sneak peek, easy guide steps, and/or a quick list providing quick in-page navigations and easily-found answers if desired.

Find out what a cracked VPN is, learn the risks of using one, and review affordable premium replacement VPNs.

THE TAKEAWAYS

To the average internet user, getting premium VPN services without paying any amount sounds appealing. This has made many turn to dangerous websites for cracked versions of foremost VPNs, including ExpressVPN and Surfshark. However, most cracked VPNs are malicious software programs that can seriously harm you. You can learn more about these cracked VPNs and why you should avoid them in this guide.

Cracking a software program means creating a pirated version of it. That means removing its copy protection and utilizing it in a manner that the developer didn’t intend. You can find cracked versions of the most popular software programs, so unsurprisingly, hackers are now targeting leading VPNs.

If you’ve been wondering, “What is a cracked VPN, and is it safe to use?” then you’ve stumbled on the right article. This article covers the topic comprehensively and answers the most common questions.

What is a VPN?

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