Common mistakes people make with VPNs: trusting free services blindly, skipping the kill switch, DNS and WebRTC leaks, assuming anonymity, forgetting other devices, breaking streaming terms, and ignoring renewal prices.
A VPN is a useful privacy tool, but only if it's set up properly and used for the right reasons. These mistakes are common and easy to avoid.
1. Thinking a VPN makes you anonymous
A VPN hides your IP address from the sites you visit and your browsing from your ISP. It doesn't stop websites recognising you when you're logged in, cookies and browser fingerprinting, or the VPN provider itself seeing your traffic metadata. It doesn't protect against phishing, malware or scam calls either.
2. Choosing a free VPN without checking how it makes money
Running servers costs money. Some free VPNs have been found to collect and sell browsing data, inject ads or have weak security. If you want free, use a reputable provider's limited free tier rather than an unknown app.
3. Not turning on the kill switch
If the VPN connection drops, your device may carry on using your normal connection without warning. A kill switch blocks traffic until the VPN reconnects. Check it's enabled, as it isn't always on by default.
4. Ignoring DNS and WebRTC leaks
Even with a VPN connected, misconfigured devices can send DNS lookups to your ISP, or browsers can reveal your real IP address through WebRTC. Use your VPN's DNS leak protection, and run a free leak test while connected.
5. Not using auto-connect on public Wi-Fi
The moment you join hotel or café Wi-Fi is when apps start syncing. Set the VPN to connect automatically on untrusted networks.
6. Forgetting other devices
Protecting your laptop but not your phone, tablet or smart TV leaves gaps. Install the app on each device you use on public networks, or set up the VPN on a router for devices that can't run apps.
7. Using it to break rules
Using a VPN is legal in the UK, but illegal activity remains illegal. Streaming services often restrict content to particular countries in their terms, and may block VPN addresses. Workplaces and schools may have network rules too.
8. Leaving the app out of date
VPN apps get security fixes like any other software. Turn on automatic updates and keep your operating system up to date.
9. Choosing on headline price
Big discounts on multi-year plans often renew at a much higher price. Check the renewal cost, set a reminder before it renews, and test the service during any money-back period.
10. Using the VPN for everything, even when it causes problems
Some banking apps, local services and online games block or slow down with a VPN. Split tunnelling, which lets chosen apps bypass the VPN, avoids switching it off entirely.
A five-minute set-up check
- Update the app.
- Turn on the kill switch and DNS leak protection.
- Set auto-connect for untrusted Wi-Fi.
- Choose a modern protocol such as WireGuard or leave it on automatic.
- Run a leak test while connected.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your VPN account.
Bonus: don't forget the basics
A VPN is one layer. Strong, unique passwords with a password manager, two-step verification, software updates and caution with links do more for most people's security than a VPN alone. The NCSC's Cyber Aware advice is a good starting point.
Frequently asked questions
Should I leave my VPN on all the time?
You can, but it's most important on public Wi-Fi. At home, it's a choice based on privacy preferences.
Can my ISP see I'm using a VPN?
Usually yes, it can tell you're connected to a VPN server, but not what you're doing through it.
Sources and further reading
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.