VPNs raise the cost of tracking, but they don't make it impossible. Here's an honest look at what a VPN really hides, who can still see what, and the realistic ways VPNs do get compromised.

Who can still see what

• The VPN provider: sees your real IP and what you connect to. Their no-logs policy (and willingness to enforce it under pressure) is the entire trust model.
• Websites you log into: still know it's you because you're authenticated.
• Browser fingerprinting: identifies your device across sessions even on a fresh IP.
• Cookies and trackers set before VPN connection: still there.

How VPNs get "hacked" (the realistic list)

• Provider compromise: server seizure, hostile takeover, malicious insider. NordVPN had a single-server breach in 2018 — the response and disclosure mattered more than the breach itself.
• Logging despite claims: some providers caught logging when subpoenaed. Pick providers whose no-log claims have been tested in court (Mullvad, IVPN, Proton).
• DNS, IPv6, WebRTC leaks: the VPN works fine; the operating system or browser quietly leaks anyway. Audit yours.
• Compromised endpoint: malware on your device sees everything before encryption. The VPN can't help.

Traffic correlation attacks

A well-resourced adversary watching both ends of the tunnel can sometimes correlate your traffic by timing and volume. This isn't realistic for most users — it requires nation-state surveillance capabilities and specific targeting.

What makes a VPN harder to track

• Independently audited no-logs policy
• RAM-only servers (nothing to seize)
• Anonymous payment options (Monero, cash, gift cards)
• Headquartered in privacy-friendly jurisdiction
• WireGuard with proper IPv6 + DNS leak protection
• Working kill switch

Bottom line

A reputable, properly configured VPN moves you from "casually tracked by everyone" to "requires real effort to track." That's a meaningful step up. It's not invisibility, and anyone selling it as such is selling fiction.

Try it now

Curious what your IP is showing the world right now? Check your IP address & location instantly with our free tool — no signup, nothing stored. Or trace any other IP to see its geolocation, ISP, and network details.