When it comes to protecting your privacy online, there’s nothing better than a reliable VPN to cover your tracks. For example, HelloVPN’s fast, simple IP cloaking service keeps you safe and under the radar. But why might an internet service provider (ISP) want to keep tabs on you and your data?
INDEX
1-Does Your ISP Care If You Use a VPN?
2-Why Is Your ISP Tracking You?
3-How Can I Hide from My ISP?
4-How Do I Get Around an ISP Blocking a VPN?
Does Your ISP Care If You Use a VPN?
That depends on where you are browsing; there are no laws against connecting to a VPN in the UK and US. They are 100% legal!
However, that doesn’t mean your ISP can’t see you using a VPN. In most cases, an ISP is unlikely to take action against you for using such a service. However, in some scenarios, ISPs can strike if they have reason to believe you’re acting unlawfully.
The best answer to this question is likely within your ISP’s contract of service, or terms and conditions. Some ISPs don’t like VPNs because they hide your web activity from sight. But, that doesn’t mean they can necessarily do anything about it.
Why Is Your ISP Tracking You?
There are a few reasons why your ISP may be tracking you. One key reason is security. If an ISP reasonably suspects that you are using their service for unlawful reasons, they can take action against you. In recent years, UK laws have even adapted to request that ISPs retain browsing data temporarily to help combat crime.
However, ISPs will also monitor data usage within ‘fair use’ boundaries. This can lead to ‘throttling’, which means they can slow down your connection if they feel you’re using too much. Throttling can also occur when ISPs need to reduce online congestion. In any case, many people see this as invasive.
ISPs will also have measures in place to prevent P2P filesharing. P2P, while perfectly innocent in many ways, is still a platform for piracy and sharing of illegal content. Therefore, even if you’ll never use torrents/P2P, your ISP still wants to keep an eye on you.
How Can I Hide from My ISP?
You can never 100% ‘hide’ from an ISP. However, a HelloVPN can mask your online activities. Contrary to popular belief, simply putting your browser into ‘private’ mode won’t stop your ISP from snooping.
A VPN, however, is an application that cloaks your IP address. This means you change the direction through which your data traffic flows. It also means that you mask your location too. Most VPNs will allow you to browse the web as if you are in the US, for example.
Keep in mind, an ISP can see if you are connected to a VPN. However, they can’t see anything beyond that. Therefore, anything you browse is for your eyes only. Always make sure to check a VPN’s data logging policy before you start, too!
How Do I Get Around an ISP Blocking a VPN?
In some rare cases, ISPs can block IP addresses associated with VPNs. However, the easy way to counteract this is to try using a different server. The best VPNs on the market will offer multiple server locations.
For example, you might have two servers in the UK, three in Australia and four in Canada. If one server doesn’t work, try an alternative – simple!
VPNs can help you keep your internet activity private while still doing all the things you love online. ISPs may have their reasons to track you, but those browsing innocently should have the option to break free. HelloVPN’s straightforward interface and speedy servers might be what you’re looking for.