How to Configure a VPN on an iPhone

Since the inception of the iPhone, securing your personal data while traveling has been a top priority for Apple. Now that we’re in the midst of the pandemic, it’s even more important to be mindful of your security and the security of the people around you. Fortunately, there are ways you can leverage the functionality of your iPhone to protect yourself and your data while on the move.

Install VPN Apps

One of the simplest ways of securing your data while traveling is by installing a VPN app on your iPhone. VPN apps allow you to securely and anonymously access the resources you need while abroad. Most importantly, they allow you to do this from countries where your data may be subject to surveillance and restrictions. If you’re not familiar, surveillance and restrictions impact the type of content you can view, access, and share online. It is, therefore, imperative that you secure your data while abroad. Installing a VPN app is, therefore, the simplest way to ensure this. You can choose from a number of well-known and reputable VPN providers to satisfy your needs.

Use Tor Hidden Services

Another great way of securing your data while traveling is by using Tor Hidden Services. Hidden Services allow you to access websites that are restricted to specific locations or regions. In most cases, these are websites operated by private companies or organizations that require authentication. For example, let’s say you want to read the Times of India news app while traveling through Amsterdam. Hidden Services allow you to do this as long as you’re physically in Amsterdam. Once you leave the city, you’ll no longer be able to access the app as it has turned off its servers in other locations. This is one way VPNs prevent online surveillance.

Keep Your MacBook To Yourself

Apple has also implemented features into macOS that allow you to stay secure when using public Wi-Fi. While there is nothing wrong with the public Wi-Fi itself (aside from the occasional log-in dialog box that appears on your screen), the very fact that it’s public means that it’s not entirely controlled by Apple. They do, however, provide a number of features that you can use to your advantage. One of these features is the Wi-Fi Shield. The Wi-Fi Shield is an add-on card for your MacBook that adds an extra layer of security and privacy when using public Wi-Fi. When you’re using public Wi-Fi, the card automatically connects you to a VPN channel that’s secured with 128-bit encryption. This, in turn, encrypts your communications to and from the public Wi-Fi network. Even if an attacker was to gain access to your laptop, they wouldn’t be able to see your personal information because it’s stored on the card and encrypted before it leaves your device. This is one advantage to using a VPN for your personal device—it ensures that even if it is lost or stolen, your personal data remains secure.

Avoid Spotty WiFi

Even if you’re not traveling abroad, avoid using spotsty WiFi whenever possible. This is due to the fact that many WiFi hot spots are completely unsecured and offer little to no protection for your personal data or financial information. If you must use such a hotspot, make sure you’re connected to a VPN so that your data is safe. If you connect to an unsecured WiFi hotspot and log in to your email, Facebook, or other social media accounts, you may be opening yourself up to hacking attempts. As a general rule of thumb, use WiFi only at coffee shops, restaurants, or other public places where people are standing around waiting for something or connected to their phones. Avoid using WiFi at home as much as possible—even if you have a strong security system in place, it’s still unwise to rely on home WiFi for work-related activities.

Use Yube VPN

Another great option for iOS users is the Yube VPN app. Yube VPN is a free VPN app available from the App Store that enables you to securely access the websites and services you need while abroad. One of the best things about Yube VPN is that it automatically configures a VPN connection when you open it for the first time. This makes it extremely easy to use while you’re on the move. You can download Yube VPN from the App Store for free. 

Choose the Right Device

When choosing your next device, consider the importance you place on security. Devices such as tablets and laptops are great because they’re easy to secure with a physical password or security code. On the other hand, the built-in cameras of an iPhone make it an easy target for hackers and scammers. It’s important to keep in mind when choosing the right device that you will use it for online shopping, banking, and other secured activities. If you’re going to use the device mainly for leisure, then perhaps an iPad or other tablet is the right choice for you. Otherwise, an iPhone is a safe and easy choice that doesn’t require much in terms of setup effort once you have it configured.