Proxies are intermediary servers that route your connection so that you don’t connect directly with an online site. As such, it helps ensure you have a safer connection and can access sites generally blocked to you. If you’re a social media manager, you might need a Facebook proxy, like these ones, that helps you access the platform and create or manage multiple accounts.
However, not everyone wants to buy a proxy server and so resort to free ones. Yet, that’s the worst thing you can do, and below we’ll explain why.
Free proxy servers have various risks and dangers attached to them. It might seem like a better option as it’s free, and you don’t want to commit to a paid subscription if you’re not sure you need one. It might also be that you don’t understand the type of proxy you need and become overwhelmed with all the tech-savvy options. However, we explore various reasons why turning to a free proxy server isn’t the right way to go.
HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure and is the level of encryption a connection uses. It helps protect your encryption and keeps people from accessing your data, like login or payment method details. However, a test has shown that around 79% of free proxies don’t use HTTPS, making it less secure and possible for other people to hack your connection and obtain your data.
Part of proxy servers not using HTTPS means your privacy is compromised, as someone could monitor your connection. Sometimes, the proxy provider does this, which is why a paid service and trusted provider is the better option. The reason is that they could give your details to other parties for marketing purposes, or it can even be as malicious as selling payment details on the black market.
While we’re not saying all free proxies have malware injected, it’s a real possibility. Free proxy providers make their income from advertisements, which they add to their software. However, these ads could carry malware that infects the server you’re using and, eventually, your device.
We’re not talking about cookies in a jar, but about a small cookie file your device creates when you log into a site. This file saves your preferences, like your login details, previous products you looked at, and more. However, hackers and cybercriminals can steal these cookies when you use a free proxy. It means they can gain access to sites where they stole your logins, like online banking.
Not only is the free software compromising your online security, but you’ll find it’s not even a worthwhile option. The service is generally poor, with limited locations you can use, slow connection speed, shared IP pools, and more. Overall, it shows that free proxy servers aren’t worth risking your security over.
While you understand these proxy servers’ risks, you might wonder how to identify one. Generally, if you got it for free, it’s dangerous, but below are some other factors you can look for to identify unsafe ones.
Your first step is to research the provider and see what type of online reputation they have. While no company will have a spotless record, you can see whether customer comments and reviews lean more towards positive or negative. Also check whether the company responded to both types of comments quickly and efficiently.
Next is to check whether the proxy has an HTTPS connection. If you press the URL in the browser bar, you’ll see that it starts with HTTPS if it’s a secure connection. Often you’ll also see a little lock icon in your address bar, indicating that the connection is secure. You can also check your proxy settings in the Settings tab.
Check how well the proxy server performs. If you’re using a Facebook proxy, then see whether it allows you to easily access Facebook with fast connections and full access to the platform. Also, check whether you can access multiple accounts without being blocked.
A software provider’s terms of service can say much about the company’s ethics. It also helps you see what the provider will do with your login details, whether they can monitor your connection, etc. Always review the terms and conditions when accepting services from any new provider.
While it might seem faster and cheaper to use a free proxy server, there’s a reason they’re free. The free versions aren’t as secure and can lead to your device being infected with a virus or companies sharing your private information with other parties. Overall, paid proxies using vetted IP addresses and offering a secure connection are much better. These proxy servers, like a secure Facebook proxy, ensure you enjoy a private connection with fast loading speeds and multiple locations to choose from when accessing geo-restricted content.
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