When you’re trading crypto, you can’t ignore cybersecurity issues. Crypto offers huge opportunities — but the bigger the opportunity, the more advanced the threats that come with it.
Once the crypto economy became mainstream, it attracted cybercriminals who exploit vulnerabilities in digital systems and use social engineering to steal cryptocurrency and sensitive user data.
That’s why every player in this market needs an extra layer of protection. The answer is a VPN. The question is — which one?
What Kind of VPN do you Need for Crypto?
A VPN is a tool that routes all your internet traffic through a remote server. By doing so, a VPN hides your IP address and virtual location and shields your online activity. No one, not even your internet service provider, can see what you do online if you use a reliable VPN.
The key word here is “reliable.”
A VPN for cryptocurrency trading must have sufficient technical capabilities, adhere to certain privacy policies, and offer specialized features. Let’s go through them one by one.
No-logs policy
A VPN routes all your internet traffic — that also means that the VPN service you’re using can peek into your online activity or even sell it to the highest bidder.
But how can you know if you’re using a trustworthy VPN?
Reliable VPN services adhere to strict no-logs policies, which are verified by independent third parties. If the VPN you’re considering doesn’t offer no-logs, skip it.
Internet kill switch
Accidents happen. Your VPN connection may accidentally drop — and leave your IP address and online activity exposed to online snoopers.
A VPN must come with a kill switch, which automatically terminates the internet connection in case your device loses the connection to the VPN server. It’s the last line of defense online and crucial for crypto trading.
Otherwise, your leaked IP address could be used to track your real identity and make you a target of sophisticated phishing scams.
DNS leak prevention
Some VPNs are not properly configured, and so they might leak sensitive data. It’s called a DNS leak — a digital security vulnerability that may expose the IP address, location, and even the internet service provider you’re using.
Speed and support
You might think that a VPN’s speed and accessibility aren’t so important for your digital security — but that’s where human nature comes in. If a VPN is slow or not user friendly, you won’t use it or enjoy its protection.
A modern VPN service should have thousands of VPN servers all around the globe, work on all major platforms, and provide 24/7 customer support.
Advanced security features
Hiding your internet traffic and IP is a great first step. However, today’s online threats are diverse, and so should be your protection.
Look for advanced security features in a VPN, like the ability to connect to the Tor network to increase your anonymity or encrypt your traffic more than once.
Protection against phishing links, dangerous websites, and malware would significantly increase your digital armor.
Finally, some authoritarian countries block VPNs because they let you circumvent censorship and online restrictions. A VPN with obfuscated servers will let you connect to VPN servers without revealing that you’re using a VPN.
Private Internet Access
- Best For:Those Concerned About Online Privacy and SecurityVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through Private Internet Access's website
You can try Private Internet Access and its open source software for as little as $12 per month and up to a 3-year contract. The platform provides you security through:
- No log policy
- Split tunneling
- Ad blocker
- Kill switch
- Static IP that shields you regular IP
- Connecting up to 10 devices
NordVPN
- Best For:Accessing Content in Any PlaceVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through NordVPN's website
Whatever way you slice it, NordVPN provides everything you need for secure crypto trading.
NordVPN has over 5,000+ servers in 59 countries, so there’s always a fast server near you, enhanced by NordVPN’s extra-fast protocol NordLynx.
You’ll be able to enjoy various specialty servers like Onion Over VPN (lets you connect to the Tor network), Double VPN (encrypts your connection twice), and obfuscated servers.
Your online activity is your business — NordVPN has had its no-logs policy audited twice by a Big Four auditing company.
One NordVPN account lets you connect to six devices on all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and Android TV). You’ll also be able to use handy NordVPN browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
One click — and you’re connected. It’s very easy to use. NordVPN’s award-winning 24/7 support will help you with any issues you might face. Its DNS leak prevention will make sure your sensitive data doesn't get leaked.
Compare VPNs
- Best For:Accessing Content in Any PlaceVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through NordVPN's website
- Best For:Tiered Service OptionsVIEW PROS & CONS:securely through Norton LifeLock's website