CNET Survey: 47% of Americans Use VPNs for Privacy. That Number Could Rise. Here's Why
Published on: 2025-06-30 15:00:00
Americans are turning to virtual private networks for online privacy and protection.
An exclusive CNET survey found that 43% of US adults use VPNs, and nearly half do so to safeguard their online activity and IP address. Beyond privacy concerns, VPNs are also gaining popularity for other reasons, including saving money and accessing banned content.
Given how much we do online, Neal O'Farrell, a cybersecurity expert with over 40 years of experience and founder of Think Security First, believes we all should be using VPNs -- especially if you're worried about someone tracking your web surfing habits.
"Instead of rolling the dice and hoping that no one's snooping, just don't take the chance," said O'Farrell. Although most Americans are not yet using a VPN, O'Farrell suspects that usage will increase as privacy concerns grow.
VPNs are legal in most countries. However, several countries ban or restrict VPN usage, and using one could lead to legal consequences. Here's what CNET's survey
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