As each MAC Address is unique, it also allows your ISP to track a device’s usage. There are several standards for this, and they all consist of a series of digits – for example MAC-48 addresses consist of six groups of two hexadecimal digits that make up a 48-bit number.Ī MAC Address, via the first three octets which make up the Organizationally Unique Identifier (OUI), indicates the manufacturer of the device.
MAC addressesĪ MAC (Media Access Control) Address is the unique identifier for each and every device on the network. Your only protection in this case is your common sense and a keen eye when it comes to app permissions.
They can then easily build a database of a user’s travels, and time spent at locations – and the point here is that this will not get cloaked even with your web browsing going through a VPN service. With a navigation app, most of us won’t quibble about granting permission to access location data – as obviously it’s vital – but many other apps request permission to collect this data as well, with no direct need for it. This data can be supplied via your PC, and even more so with a smartphone which has integrated GPS capabilities, along with many apps asking for permission to access geolocation data. This is sometimes useful, for example when searching for a chain restaurant, because you’ll get directed to the closest location. When you visit a website, often it already knows where you are via geolocation data. For example, check out our review of ExpressVPN (opens in new tab) which claims to not collect any browsing activity or traffic data, making it a standout in this area among rival VPN services. Ideally, a provider should log as little user data as possible, so pick your VPN carefully bearing this in mind. Obviously, the less information you have to supply to create an account, the better (in case of a potential data breach). Most VPNs keep data for between 14 to 30 days, and also require a varying amount of information for when it comes to signing up for an account. When it comes to a VPN, one of the differentiating points is how long providers keep your data. While everyone has to make a buck, you are definitely better off using a VPN that you pay for, which at least has a responsibility to value your privacy – because it’s literally their business to make sure this is the case. At least given the aforementioned concerns regarding security and anonymity, because with a free VPN, you are essentially signing up for a service which only has one way to turn a profit: by selling your browsing information to the highest bidder. Everybody wants a bargain, but a free VPN is one offer that you might want to pass on.
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