VPN Scams Explained: Red Flags and Safe Alternatives
Last Updated on August 23, 2025 by Editorial
A VPN is meant to give you privacy online. For many people, it’s the go-to tool for keeping browsing habits away from prying eyes. But with the growing demand, VPN scams have started showing up everywhere.
These scams trick users with flashy promises, fake guarantees, or apps that look real but put your data at risk.
Scammers target VPNs because they know people care about online privacy and are willing to pay for it. The problem is that some fake services collect the very data they claim to protect, or they flood users with ads instead of securing their connection.
That’s why spotting VPN scams has become just as important as knowing how to use a VPN. If you’re relying on one to stay private online, you need to know the warning signs and how to avoid getting caught in a trap.
How VPN Scams Work
Knowing how VPN scams work makes it easier to avoid them before they cause damage.
Common Tricks Scammers Use
VPN scammers employ a combination of tactics to make their VPN apps appear trustworthy. The most common tricks include:
- Fake VPN apps on app stores that install malware instead of protecting your internet connection.
- Phishing emails or ads that look like promotions for a popular VPN service but lead to fake VPN websites designed to steal payment details.
- Misleading ads that promise lifetime VPN subscriptions or unlimited worldwide VPN servers for a one-time fee, only to disappear after taking your money.
- Free VPN services that claim to be safe but secretly track your activity, sell your private data, or inject ads into your browsing.
- Fake reviews and testimonials on VPN websites or app stores make these VPN scams look like reliable VPN services.
Difference Between a Legitimate VPN and a Scam Service
A legitimate VPN provider invests in secure protocols, privacy policies that protect personal information, and a reliable network of VPN servers. They explain clearly how your data is handled, offer support through their official VPN website, and keep VPN apps updated for user security.
On the other hand, an unsafe free VPN app often hides its fine print and avoids explaining how it handles sensitive data. They also push you towards deals that sound too good to be true, such as lifetime VPN subscriptions for just a few dollars.
Another difference is how the service is reviewed. Legitimate VPNs usually receive feedback from trusted VPN reviews and independent testers (like us). Fake VPNs, on the other hand, flood the internet with fake VPN reviews, paid testimonials, and positive ratings that don’t match real user experiences.
Many free VPN apps also request unnecessary permissions on your phone. This includes access to contacts or messages, which is another sign that they’re not a reliable VPN service.
Warning Signs of a Fraudulent VPN Provider
There are clear red flags that can help VPN users spot a scam before it’s too late. They include the following:
- VPN websites with little or no company information.
- VPN apps on the Google Play Store with repeated fake reviews.
- Promises of free VPN services with unlimited bandwidth sound unrealistic.
- VPN companies that refuse to explain which VPN protocols they use or don’t provide details about DNS leaks or split tunneling.
- VPN accounts that offer lifetime VPNs that are cheaper than a single month of a premium VPN.
- VPN providers that don’t have an official VPN website or whose support pages look copied from other VPN companies.
- Free VPN providers that run ads that exaggerate the risks of not using their service, pushing users to download their fake VPN apps immediately.
Paying attention to these signals makes it easier to avoid VPN scams and stick to reliable VPN services that actually care about online privacy and security.
Types of VPN Scams to Watch Out For
VPN scams are getting more creative every year, and many users don’t notice them until it’s too late. Here are the most common VPN scams to watch out for.
1. Free VPN scams
Free VPN services look attractive, but most free VPN apps come with a hidden cost. Many free VPN providers collect personal information like browsing history, IP addresses, and location data, then sell it to advertisers.
Some free VPNs even inject malware or show endless ads that track your internet connection. A legitimate VPN service needs servers, bandwidth, and maintenance, and free VPN companies often cover these costs by trading your privacy.
2. Fake VPN websites and apps
Another common VPN scam involves fake VPN websites and fake VPN apps that mimic real VPN providers. These clones often appear in search results or even in the Google Play Store, looking like legitimate services.
Once downloaded, a fake VPN app can steal login details, spread VPN malware, or redirect your internet traffic to unsafe servers. Fake reviews and testimonials are often used to make these VPN apps look trustworthy.
Always download from the official VPN website and check that the VPN reviews are genuine.
3. Lifetime VPN deals
Lifetime VPN subscriptions sound like a bargain, but they’re one of the most popular VPN scams. Running a VPN service with worldwide VPN servers and secure protocols costs money, so a one-time fee rarely makes sense.
Many VPN companies offering lifetime VPNs disappear after a few months, leaving users with no service and no refund. Even if the VPN provider stays online, lifetime VPN accounts often have hidden limits on internet bandwidth or fewer VPN servers compared to paid plans.
To be safe, always read the fine print before trusting lifetime subscriptions.
4. VPN Refund Scams
Many VPN providers advertise money-back guarantees, but not all of them honor these promises. Some VPN services make it nearly impossible to claim refunds by adding hidden charges, strict conditions, or long approval times.
In other cases, a VPN company may claim your request doesn’t meet the terms listed in the fine print. Refund scams are especially common with fake VPN providers who never planned to pay back users.
Always check refund policies carefully and read VPN reviews from real users before committing to a VPN subscription.
5. Imposter Customer Support Scams
Scammers also trick VPN users with fake customer support lines. They set up fake VPN websites, social media pages, or helplines pretending to represent a legitimate VPN provider.
Once contacted, they might ask for remote access to your device, push cracked VPN accounts, or upsell fake upgrades. In some cases, they’ll ask for payment directly, leaving you with no actual VPN service.
Always contact support through the official VPN website or VPN app to avoid these traps.
Real-World Examples of VPN Scams
VPN scams aren’t just theories or warnings. They’ve happened in real life, and many users have already lost money, private data, or trust in certain VPN providers.
A well-known example is Hola VPN, which was caught selling user bandwidth without clear permission. Other shady VPN providers disappeared after running lifetime VPN subscription offers that they couldn’t support.
These shutdowns left users with dead VPN subscriptions and no refunds. Fraudulent VPN companies take advantage of how crowded the VPN industry is, then vanish once the scam is exposed.
Risks of Falling for a VPN Scam
VPN scams don’t just waste your time; they put your privacy, money, and even devices at risk. Here are some of the risks.
1. Data Theft and Identity Fraud
A fake VPN app can steal sensitive data like login details, banking information, and personal documents. Some VPN providers caught running scams have logged IP addresses and sold private data to advertisers.
Once this information is exposed, identity theft becomes a real risk. Unlike legitimate VPN services that focus on online privacy and security, fake VPNs are built to profit from your personal information.
2. Financial Loss
Scam VPN services often trap users in shady subscriptions or charge hidden fees. Some require upfront payments for lifetime VPN subscriptions that disappear within months. Others steal credit card details during signup, leading to direct financial fraud.
Even free VPN services can trick users into premium upgrades that don’t exist. With so many VPN providers in the market, scammers use payment tricks because refunds are rarely an option.
3. Malware Infections and Spyware Risks
Many free VPN apps found in app stores have been caught installing spyware or adware. These programs run in the background, track internet connections, and even open the door for more malware.
A VPN scam can leave your device slower, less safe, and constantly exposed to harmful software. Unlike reliable VPN services that use secure protocols, fake VPN apps are often nothing more than spyware disguised as a VPN service.
4. False Sense of Security
One of the biggest dangers of a VPN scam is that users feel safe when they’re not. Believing that a fake VPN protects them, users may visit unsafe sites, share personal information, or use public Wi-Fi without caution.
This false confidence often leads to greater exposure because the VPN network isn’t actually secure. Instead of protecting your online privacy, these scams create more risks by lowering your guard.
5. Exposure Through DNS Leaks
Some VPN scams claim to protect privacy but don’t even configure servers correctly, causing DNS leaks. This means your internet provider or third parties can still track your browsing history.
Users who think they’re hidden behind a VPN server may be completely exposed. A legitimate VPN provider runs tests to prevent this, but fake VPNs rarely care about secure protocols.
6. Loss of VPN Accounts and Data
Scam services that sell cracked VPN accounts often resell the same login details to hundreds of users. Not only does this make the service unreliable, but it also puts your email and password at risk of being shared across the web.
Once leaked, these details can be used to break into other accounts. Fake VPN reviews often cover up these issues, making it harder for users to spot them in time.
7. Damage to Online Privacy and Trust
Falling for VPN scams can make users lose trust in all VPN services, even legitimate ones. After losing money or exposing personal data, many avoid VPNs altogether and stay vulnerable online.
This is exactly why scam VPN companies thrive in the crowded VPN industry. By pretending to offer reliable VPN services, they harm both users and legitimate VPN providers.
How to Avoid VPN Scams
You can avoid most VPN scams by adhering to the following tips.
- Research the provider before subscribing: Always check who owns the VPN provider and where it’s based. Many fake VPN companies hide their location or use vague VPN websites to avoid accountability. Look into the history of the VPN service and whether it has been involved in any privacy issues.
- Check independent reviews and expert recommendations: VPN reviews on official VPN websites can be misleading because fake reviews and testimonials are easy to create. Instead, look at third-party VPN reviews from trusted tech sites or independent cybersecurity experts that actually test VPNs.
- Look for clear privacy policies and audit reports: A reliable VPN service is transparent about data handling and logging practices. If a VPN provider has an independent audit report, it’s a good sign that it takes online privacy seriously.
- Stick to well-known and reputable VPN services: Many VPN providers compete in the VPN industry, but only a few have proven records of protecting user security. Choosing a VPN company with a strong history and a large user base reduces the risk of falling for common VPN scams.
- Avoid “too good to be true” offers: If a VPN app promises free VPN services forever, unlimited internet bandwidth, or lifetime VPN subscriptions for a one-time payment, be cautious. These are some of the most popular VPN scams, and many users lose money after the VPN provider disappears.
- Download only from official VPN websites and app stores: Fake VPN apps often appear in the Google Play Store or on shady VPN websites that look similar to real ones. To avoid downloading a fake VPN app, always go directly to the official VPN website or a verified app marketplace.
- Verify payment options and refund policies: A legitimate VPN service will offer standard payment methods like credit cards or PayPal, along with a clear refund policy. VPN scams often push crypto-only payments or hide refund conditions in the fine print. If a VPN subscription has no money-back guarantee, it’s best to avoid it.
- Pay attention to app permissions: Free VPN apps should only request access needed to run the VPN network. If a VPN app asks for permission to read contacts, messages, or photos, it’s a sign of a VPN scam. These permissions allow the VPN provider to collect private data unrelated to VPN services.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed by a VPN
Falling for VPN scams can feel frustrating, but quick action can help reduce the damage and protect your personal information.
1. Steps to Take Immediately
If you’ve signed up for a fake VPN app or shady VPN provider, the first step is to cancel your VPN subscription and block future payments. Contact your bank or card issuer to stop charges and request a refund if possible.
Don’t delay because many VPN companies running scams rely on users missing payment cycles. Acting fast keeps your financial loss to a minimum.
2. Scan Devices for Malware or Spyware
Run a full scan with a trusted antivirus or anti-malware tool to clean your devices. Check all apps and remove anything suspicious, especially free VPN apps downloaded outside official VPN websites. Keeping your device clean reduces further exposure to VPN malware or spyware.
3. Change All Passwords and Enable 2FA
If you used the VPN scam service while logging into accounts, assume your passwords may have been stolen. Update all important accounts such as email, banking, and social media.
Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible to add another security layer. Many fake VPN providers are built to steal login details, so acting quickly keeps your sensitive data safer.
4. Report VPN Scams to Authorities
Fake VPN apps and VPN websites stay active because users rarely report them. File a complaint with local cybercrime authorities and notify your bank about the scam.
If you downloaded from the Google Play Store or another app marketplace, report the VPN app immediately. This helps remove it before more VPN users fall for the same trap.
5. Share Your Experience to Warn Others
Scammers thrive in the VPN market by recycling the same tricks. Posting reviews and testimonials on forums or sharing your story online can help others avoid common VPN scams.
By exposing fake VPN providers, you reduce the chances of more users trusting a fraudulent VPN service. Your warning could save someone else’s online privacy and security.
6. Re-Evaluate Your VPN Choices
After being scammed, it’s smart to review how you pick VPN services. Stick with well-known VPN companies that publish independent audits, clear privacy policies, and transparent refund terms.
Avoid lifetime VPN subscriptions, cracked VPN accounts, or offers that sound too good to be true. Choosing reliable VPN services reduces the risk of falling victim again.
Safe and Trusted Alternatives to Scam VPNs
With so many fake VPN apps and shady providers in the VPN market, it helps to know which services actually deliver privacy and security without tricks.
1. NordVPN – Most Trusted VPN Provider
NordVPN is one of the most reliable VPN providers because it consistently proves its claims through independent audits. Its no-logs policy has been verified multiple times by outside firms, which means your browsing history and personal information aren’t stored.
The company runs thousands of VPN servers worldwide, giving users fast speeds while keeping their IP addresses hidden. For those worried about common VPN scams, this provider sets a strong example of transparency in the VPN industry.
Beyond audits, NordVPN uses secure VPN protocols and advanced features like split tunneling and multi-hop connections for added safety. It has a clear privacy policy and a proven record of keeping sensitive data safe.
The service has also been around for years and has built trust by avoiding fake reviews or shady lifetime VPN subscriptions that many fake VPN providers rely on. For users looking for a legitimate service, it’s one of the safest bets in today’s VPN market.
More in our NordVPN review.
2. PureVPN – Best Privacy
PureVPN has worked hard to rebuild trust after past concerns, and today it’s one of the most privacy-focused VPN services available. Its no-log claims are backed by multiple independent audits, making it clear that user activity and VPN accounts aren’t being tracked or sold.
The service operates VPN servers in dozens of countries and supports secure protocols, giving users control over online privacy and security. It avoids the kind of fake promises that are common in many free VPN apps and fake VPN websites.
What sets PureVPN apart is its focus on transparency and accountability. The company publishes audit results and maintains clear policies on how it handles personal information.
PureVPN builds trust through reliable VPN services and open communication. For VPN users who want to avoid free VPN scams or shady VPN companies, PureVPN is a safe alternative.
3. PrivadoVPN – Most Reliable Free VPN
Free VPN services often raise red flags because many fake VPN apps collect sensitive data or inject malware. PrivadoVPN stands out as one of the best free VPN providers that offers a safe and legitimate option.
Unlike many free VPNs, it has a strict no-log policy that’s been independently audited, ensuring personal data isn’t being stored or sold. It also gives users a limited but fair amount of free internet bandwidth without shady fine print or subscription traps.
PrivadoVPN offers features usually reserved for premium VPN subscriptions, such as secure protocols and access to worldwide VPN servers. It doesn’t engage in fake VPN reviews or push cracked VPN accounts the way unreliable providers do
For anyone tired of popular VPN scams tied to free VPN apps, PrivadoVPN is a safe and trusted alternative. More in our PrivadoVPN review.
Don’t Fall Victim to VPN Scams
VPN scams have become a common problem, and they put both your privacy and money at risk. Fake VPN websites, shady lifetime subscriptions, and free VPN apps that secretly track data are just some of the most popular tricks.
The good news is that these scams are easy to avoid if you know the warning signs. Sticking to official VPN websites, reading real VPN reviews, and paying attention to privacy policies can save you from a lot of trouble.
Services like NordVPN, PureVPN, and PrivadoVPN show that legitimate VPN companies do exist and can provide real protection for your internet connection.
FAQ
What are the most common VPN scams I should know about?
The most common VPN scams are free apps that secretly collect your data, fake websites that trick you into downloading malware, lifetime subscription deals that vanish after payment, and fake support lines that ask for extra fees. They all take advantage of people looking for privacy without checking the source carefully.
How can I spot a fake VPN website or app?
Fake VPN websites often look rushed, with spelling mistakes, poor design, or no clear contact information. They may also push you to download software right away without showing any details about the company. Real VPN providers are transparent about their team, location, and policies.
Are free VPNs always scams?
Not every free VPN is a scam, but most of them survive by selling your data or bombarding you with ads. If a service costs nothing, you should question how it makes money. Trusted VPNs usually offer limited free plans but with clear terms and privacy policies.
Why are lifetime VPN deals risky?
Lifetime VPN deals sound great at first, but running secure servers costs money. Many of these providers shut down after a short time or stop maintaining their service. Once they disappear, you lose both your privacy and your payment.
How do VPN refund scams work?
Some shady VPNs promise a money-back guarantee but make it nearly impossible to claim. They may hide conditions in the fine print, delay refunds for months, or ignore customer requests. A legitimate VPN will process cancellations quickly without hidden tricks.
What’s the danger of fake VPN customer support?
Scammers set up fake helplines or chat pop-ups that pretend to be official support. They often ask for payment details or remote access to your computer. Real VPN support never demands extra fees outside of your subscription and won’t pressure you into unnecessary add-ons.
What are safe alternatives to shady VPNs?
The best way to stay safe is to stick with well-known providers that have been around for years, offer clear privacy policies, and are reviewed by trusted tech sites. You can also use features built into browsers, like private browsing and secure DNS, if you only need light protection.
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