Does VPN really protect my online identity?

- Your ISP knows that you use a VPN but doesn't know the content.
- The VPN provider knows all your communication if it isn't https: , sftp: etcetera.
- The sites you visit (like Facebook) know all about you except your IP-address and the location data derived from it.

I've seen folk setup VPN then proceed to use Facebook and more. As to the IP in untrackable, that's false as the VPN and governments can track such use.

I see little reason to supply links about this but privacy is blown the moment you use email, Facebook and what else?

A VPN can hide your online identity by masking your IP address. It encrypts your location and the data you send and receive, helping protect your personal identifiable information (PII). This data can come in the form of your bank information, as well as Social Security and driver's license numbers.
But this is not for freemiums, only paid ones can help you achieve it.

Browser VPN hides your activity and identity from hackers, businesses, government agencies, and other third-parties. With a secure browser connection to the internet, your data and IP address are hidden by a type of virtual tunnel. This keeps others from monitoring or tracking what you do online.

Updated:Even though they protect your IP and encrypt your internet history, they do more than that (here to find outmore). To download compromising documents or visit phishing sites, those technologies cannot protect you from malicious software.

I plan to use a VPN but it just seems like a simple process that in turn protects your entire rig? Correct me if I’m wrong.

What is the extent that the combo will protect you from? Malware? Spying? Etc.

Hi,

VPNs can only encrypt your internet history and protect your IP, though. For instance, if you visit phishing websites or download hacked files, they won't keep you safe.