Concern about digital privacy has become a central issue for users in Spain. However, a large number of people continue to rely on free VPN services without being fully aware of the risks involved.
A recent study by NordVPN reveals that, although the adoption of paid solutions is growing, a considerable part of the population continues to use free alternatives that, far from protecting, can jeopardize the security of their personal data.
Digital privacy, a priority that does not always translate into action
Most Spaniards value their privacy online, but many opt for free options that can be counterproductive. According to the data, 69% of users use a VPN to protect their privacy and the security of their devices. 37% want to keep their personal data safe, while 32% want to strengthen the protection of their accounts and passwords.
Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of NordVPN, warns about the evolution of users’ digital behavior. “The digital privacy landscape has changed over the years. More and more users are beginning to recognize the hidden risks of using free VPNs, many of which can compromise personal data rather than protect it. In today’s online environment, privacy is too valuable to be entrusted to services that could profit from your information.”
Growing knowledge about VPNs, but security gaps
In Spain, knowledge about virtual private networks has increased significantly. 71% of users know what a VPN is and 32% use it regularly. However, the study also reveals a worrying fact, 13% of users continue to opt for free services, a percentage that has remained stable since last year.
69% of users use a VPN to protect their privacy and the security of their devices
“We have reached a tipping point where consumers recognize that their digital footprint has real-world consequences. Now that knowledge about VPNs is above average in Spain, it is encouraging to see that use is spreading, but we still need to continue educating people on how to use these tools effectively,” says Briedis.
The hidden risks of free VPNs
The main attraction of free VPNs is obvious, there is no direct financial cost. However, this free service usually comes at a high price in terms of privacy. NordVPN experts warn that many of these applications use business models based on the collection and sale of personal data to third parties, which contradicts the very purpose of a VPN, which is to guarantee anonymity and protection of user information.
The most common risks include a lack of proper encryption, vulnerabilities in servers, and, in some cases, the inclusion of malicious software in the applications themselves. These threats can open the door to cyberattacks, identity theft, or even constant monitoring of online traffic.
Briedis emphasizes that, “People download free VPNs to protect their privacy, without realizing that they are exposing themselves to greater surveillance. There is no free service, if you don’t pay with money, you pay with your data.”
The future of online privacy in Spain
Despite these risks, the trend towards more conscious and secure use of VPNs is beginning to consolidate. The NordVPN report shows that 3% of Spaniards who do not currently use these services plan to start doing so in the next year, and the majority will opt for paid solutions.
This shift reflects a greater understanding of the value of digital security and a growing willingness to invest in tools that truly protect personal information. “The encouraging thing is that users understand that privacy requires an investment. The question that each user must ask themselves is whether it is worth exposing their personal data to unknown entities to save a few euros,” concludes Briedis.
