Updated March 2026
Most free VPNs sell your data. We identify the safe exceptions — and the dangerous apps to avoid.
Warning: 80%+ of "free VPN" apps in app stores have been caught selling user data, injecting ads, or leaking DNS queries. The only safe free VPNs are limited versions of legitimate paid products. This page covers only those.
The only free VPN with truly unlimited data. No logs, no ads, no data selling.
Limitations: 3 server locations (US, Netherlands, Japan), slower speeds, 1 device only, no streaming unblocking, no Secure Core.
10GB free monthly — enough for casual browsing, privacy protection, and travel
Limitations: 10GB data cap (15GB with email verification). No streaming. Slower than paid tier.
Basic privacy protection with no data cap but very limited server options
Limitations: Very limited server selection, speed restrictions, no streaming support.
These apps have been caught engaging in harmful practices. Never install them:
| App Name | Problem Found | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Hola VPN | Sells your bandwidth for botnet use | Adios Hola (independent research) |
| SuperVPN | MitM vulnerabilities, data collection | VPNpro research |
| Betternet | Sold user data to third parties | CSIRO study |
| TouchVPN | Third-party data sharing in ToS | ToS analysis |
| Psiphon | Admits to sharing data with partners | Their own privacy policy |
Free VPNs are excellent for:
You need a paid VPN if you:
Best paid option for ex-free-tier users: Surfshark at $1.99/month is only marginally more than "free" and delivers unlimited devices, full streaming unblocking, and significantly faster speeds.