How to choose the best free VPN for online shopping

Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in our digital age. The growing number of online transactions results in a higher risk of cyberattacks and fraud. Getting yourself a free VPN is the best way to be secure when you buy stuff online. A free VPN protects personal data, ensures your privacy, and allows you to access sites that may be blocked in your country.

Why you should use a free VPN for online shopping

1. Avoiding price discrimination

Price discrimination occurs when retailers monitor your online behaviour, be it the frequency or duration of your visit to a product page, to adjust prices for maximum profit. Because your browsing history is linked to your IP address, it's easy for retailers to keep tabs on you. But the best free VPN can hide your IP address to avoid tracking and save you money.

2. Access to regional deals

Prices for the very same product often vary greatly depending on the buyer's location. Using a free VPN, you can change your virtual location and shop like you were in another country, which can help you find the best deals. This will be very helpful if you are shopping for digital products.

3. Security of financial information

Hackers can easily steal your data when you use public Wi-Fi for online shopping.  Your credit card numbers, information about bank accounts, and even the passwords are at their reach. Fortunately, using a free VPN encrypts your data, turning it into a random, indecipherable code that cannot be intercepted or deciphered.

How to choose the best free VPN for online shopping

To enjoy the benefits of a VPN and not spend a penny on this service, you need to choose a provider responsibly. Special services such as freevpnmentor.com are available to help you compare the characteristics of VPNs.

1. Security and privacy

Privacy comes first. Choose a free VPN with a strict zero-logging policy and robust security features like AES-256 encryption and an auto-disconnect feature to protect your online activities from being tracked or spied on.

2. Servers

The number of servers and their location is critical for finding discounts around the world. Also, more servers means less traffic congestion, providing a smoother browsing experience.

3. Speed

VPN services can slow down your internet connection because your traffic is rerouted through an encrypted tunnel. Look for a free VPN service that uses advanced protocols to maintain fast speeds.

4. Compatibility

If you use multiple devices, make sure that the VPN you choose is compatible with all of them. You want a free VPN that supports a wide range of devices, including Mac, iPhone, Android, Windows, and browser extensions.

5. Support

Customer support is not the last thing. Choose a free VPN that offers round-the-clock online support via its website or email.

Other tips to ensure safety when shopping online

1. Double check websites

Hackers often create fake websites that mimic legitimate ones to trick you into entering sensitive information. Sometimes these sites can be recognized by design flaws or requests for unnecessary personal information.

Tip: Always double-check the URL and look for signs of authenticity, such as customer service contacts and clear refund policies, before entering any information.

2. Be aware of fraudulent attacks

Phishing scams are the most common crime in 2024, where criminals pose as legitimate companies to steal your personal, financial, or account information.

Tip: Only enter your information directly on the retailer's website, not through links in emails or messages.

3. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but often not encrypted, making it vulnerable to hackers who can steal your data. It is especially risky to make online payments on such internet networks.

Tip: Only use public Wi-Fi with a free VPN to encrypt your traffic and protect your information.

If you find the best free VPN among dozens of options, you'll get a tool that protects your financial information and helps you find the best deals. A VPN isn't just about security, it's also about unlimited shopping. So dive into the world of shopping safely.