Using a free VPN for Russia is not illegal. This is why many people access restricted content by downloading apps and software to their computers and mobile devices. Restrictions in Russia apply only to developers and companies that provide VPN services. Companies and individuals are exempt from these rules and regulations. 

Last year, spokesman Dmitry Peskov also confirmed this information. He also admitted in the interview that he has used such technologies on rare occasions and clarified that under Russian law, this is not illegal. 

Despite the fact that anyone can download a free VPN client without breaking the law, there are still many misconceptions surrounding such popular technology. 

The Most Common Myths

Some widespread false beliefs include the following. 

Myth No. 1: Free VPN online browser is only used by criminals.

The vast majority of businesses, governments, and private citizens rely on it. The primary one is hiding one’s identity while accessing vital online resources. 

There are currently over 130 tenders on the official public procurement website that include the acronym VPN. One notable exception is the widespread adoption of virtual private networks (VPN) in Novosibirsk region hospitals. A well-known newspaper also reported this information. 

Myth No. 2: There is no difference between Private Virtual Networks. 

VPN applications have different numbers of servers. However, the most salient distinction between them is the protocols they employ. Proven and trustworthy software establishes a safe connection using cutting-edge encryption methods like OpenVPN, Wireguard, and IKEv2/IPSec.

Myth No. 3: A fully free VPN has the same features as a paid one.

When it comes to helping people, not all services are created equal. Free software typically performs poorly in comparison to proprietary alternatives, especially in terms of speed, user experience, and, most importantly, security. Unfortunately, the fraudulent scheme of developers reselling customers’ personal information is gaining traction. 

FreeVPN.org and DashVPN.io, which provided services for free, allegedly sold client data for 45 million users. What is more, 795,000 were Russian nationals. More than 1.2 terabytes of data belonging to individuals has been made available to the general public. 

Myth No. 4: There are many complications and issues when using a VPN correctly.

In practise, issues with the VPN software are uncommon. First you need to download the software through the official Play Market or App Store. Download the setup file from the developer’s website if you’re using a PC. Next, sign up, make a payment (if a subscription is available), or try it out for free. In the future, you’ll only need to launch the programme, wait a few seconds, and then begin your Web exploration. 

Only reliable and proven facts

It’s important to focus only on verified information in order to dispel any uncertainty:

  • connecting to a network via VPN allows users to make use of intermediary servers in a variety of locations around the world;
  • the technology is primarily used so that users can conceal their true location while still accessing geoblocked content online and keep their personal information safe;
  • the latest and safest protocols are OpenVPN, Wireguard, IKEv2/IPSec. Stable performance in high-speed mode has been demonstrated by numerous tests;
  • in the Russian Federation the use of VPN services is legal. There are currently no limitations on its use by entrepreneurs or individuals;
  • among the proven services are Surfshark, PureVPN, Speedify, and F-Secure. Because they are not blocked by Roskomnadzor, their use is unrestricted. 

If you have access to trustworthy information about the service, you can utilise it wisely and securely.