VPN Security Realities: What It Protects vs. What It Doesn't
Does a VPN make you 100% invisible? We break down exactly what data a VPN encrypts and which risks (like phishing) it cannot stop.
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For many of us, hitting that "Connect" button on a VPN feels like equipping an invisible steel armor. The common assumption is that once the VPN is on, no one can see us, and no digital danger can touch us. The reality, however, is a bit more nuanced.
VPN security is a topic often lost between marketing hype and technical facts. If you are an Iranian living abroad using a service like ZibalVPN to access Iranian banking apps or government portals, it is crucial to understand exactly where this tool protects you and where the responsibility for security still lies with you.
What Does a VPN Actually Do? (The Good Stuff)
To understand security, you need to visualize a VPN (Virtual Private Network) as a tunnel. When you turn on your VPN, your internet traffic is packaged, encrypted, and sent through an intermediary server (e.g., a server in Tehran) before reaching its final destination.
This process creates three key layers of protection:
IP Address Masking: The destination site (like Bank Mellat or Melli) no longer sees your real address in Germany or Canada. They only see the VPN server's address in Iran. This is what allows you to bypass geo-blocking restrictions.
Encryption Against ISPs: Your internet service provider abroad (like Vodafone or Bell) cannot see exactly which websites you are visiting or what data you are sending. They only see that you are connected to a server and exchanging a certain amount of encrypted data.
Public WiFi Security: If you are using free WiFi at a cafe or airport, a VPN prevents potential hackers on that same network from snooping on your data packets.
What Does a VPN Not Protect? (The Hidden Risks)
This is where you need to be vigilant. A VPN is a "privacy" and "location shifting" tool, not an intelligent antivirus or firewall. The following scenarios fall outside the VPN's security scope:
1. Phishing and Fake Pages (The Biggest Risk)
If you click on a malicious link while your VPN is on—one that looks like a Shaparak payment gateway or a banking login page—the VPN cannot save you.The VPN will securely encrypt your traffic all the way to that fake page, but you will be manually handing over your password and card details to thieves. Always check the browser URL bar.
2. Malware and Viruses
If you download a file that contains a virus, the VPN will not stop the download. The malicious file will travel through the secure VPN tunnel and land safely on your device! To combat this risk, you need an antivirus, not just a VPN.
3. Browser Cookies and Logins
Many advertising companies (like Google or Facebook) do not necessarily need your IP to track you. If you are logged into your Google account (Gmail) in your browser, they know "who" you are even if your IP changes. Cookies stored in your browser can track your identity and behavior regardless of your VPN connection.
What is the Difference Between HTTPS and VPN?
Today, most reputable websites (including banks and online stores) use the HTTPS protocol (that little lock icon next to the URL bar).
HTTPS: Encrypts the content of your message so only you and the destination server (the bank) can read it.
VPN: In addition to content, it hides your origin and destination from outside observers (like your ISP).
Combining these two creates a very high level of security. However, remember that HTTPS, like a VPN, does not stop phishing (scam sites can also have a green lock). For more on configuring your connection securely, you can check our setup guide.
Security Checklist for Iranians Abroad
When using ZibalVPN for Iranian banking or administrative tasks, follow these tips to ensure complete safety:
Keep Antivirus Updated: Ensure your system is clean before performing sensitive tasks.
Type Addresses Manually: Do not click on banking links sent via Telegram or SMS. Type the bank's URL yourself.
Clear Browser Cache: Sometimes old cookies can reveal your real location or identity. Using "Incognito" or "Private" mode in your browser is recommended.
Kill Switch: If using specialized software, ensure the Kill Switch feature is active. This cuts your internet if the VPN drops momentarily, preventing your real IP from leaking.
Summary
A VPN is a powerful tool for restoring your access to Iranian services and encrypting your connection path. However, it is not a substitute for your own vigilance. VPN security is limited to data transit; the security of the destination and what you click on remains in your hands.
To better understand how our service works and how to stay safe, we suggest visiting our blog to read more educational articles.
Safety Note: ZibalVPN has no access to your bank account details, passwords, or transactions. All your traffic is transmitted in an encrypted format.