“Hi, Kim, I’ve heard you talk about VPNs. Will using one make me anonymous online?” — Dennis in Texas

Great question, Dennis, and one a lot of people ask. A VPN (virtual private network) is one of the best tools for privacy, but it’s not a magic invisibility cloak. There’s a lot of hype out there, so let’s set the record straight.

🚫 Myth #1: ‘I’m anonymous.’

Nope. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, but websites still recognize you through cookies, browser fingerprinting and account logins. 

A VPN hides where you are, not who you are. Combine it with private browsers, tracker blockers and good password habits.

⚠️ Myth #2: ‘I’m virus free.’

A VPN secures your connection, especially on public Wi‑Fi, but it won’t save you from clicking a bad link or downloading malware. Think of it as a safe passage for your data, not a shield against every threat.

You still need to keep your antivirus running and your skepticism dialed up.

💸 Myth #3: ‘Free VPNs are just as good.’

If you’re not paying, you’re the product. Free VPNs often log and sell your data, inject ads or use weak encryption. Plus, many are from China where they grab a copy of everything on your device. 

A legit VPN provider earns its keep through subscriptions, not by harvesting your info.

🎯 What a VPN actually does

Here’s where it gets impressive. A VPN encrypts your data end to end, turning everything you send online from account logins, passwords, emails and streaming into scrambled code. Hackers, advertisers and even your internet provider can’t see a thing.

Did you know your ISP can legally sell your browsing history? A VPN shuts that door.

A VPN also hides your IP address, masking your true location. Websites can’t track your city or build a digital profile on you. 

A VPN can actually save you money. Flight prices, hotel rates and online shopping deals can change depending on your zip code. With a VPN, you can compare prices from different regions and avoid getting charged more just because of where you live.

Public Wi‑Fi at airports, hotels or coffee shops? A hacker’s playground. A VPN locks down your connection, even on unsecured networks.

Want to watch your shows while traveling? VPNs let you bypass geo-restrictions and stream like you’re back home.

It’s like a private, armored tunnel through the internet keeping your info safe and your habits private.

My pick? ExpressVPN, a longtime sponsor of my national radio show and the one I personally use. It’s fast, incredibly reliable and doesn’t keep logs of what you do online. One click and you’re protected.

It works on up to eight devices at once, including your phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, even your smart TV. Whether you’re at home, at the airport or traveling abroad, ExpressVPN keeps your connection private and secure.

If you’re serious about privacy, this is the one to get. 

✅ Click now to get four extra months using my exclusive link. Btw, if you do get ExpressVPN, I get no kickbacks or residuals. Everyone needs a solid VPN nowadays.
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