VPNs (Virtual Private Networks)

fussysoandso

Hi everyone,
I know that many 'expats' use a VPN to access UK-only content sites (ie. iPlayer) from abroad, but I see there is a fair bit of talk about using one as an additional and necessary form of security in addition to firewalls and anti-virus software.
I wonder what current thinking is, here in the UK, for general home users and not just those who access the internet via public access sites? Is a VPN, as I'm reading, an essential tool for protecting myself from identity fraud and the like?
All views appreciated.
Ta muchly )

jadziad

Using a VPN does not lower the chances of identity fraud. If anything, the risk would increase slightly due to routing your traffic through a third party.

The exception is public wifi. Providers like BT Openzone offers free download & use of a VPN client purely because traffic is otherwise sent unencrypted over the air.

Here are the primary risk factors for identify fraud that I believe to be the most problematic:

- Poor practices or vulnerabilities at companies or web sites which store your data.
- Sharing passwords between sites.
- Your PC: browser, browser plugins, apps, A/V software. (ordered most to least important)
- You

fussysoandso

Many thanks for your thoughts and common sense advice, Jadziad. Very much appreciated.