10 Best VPNs for Android & iPhone

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TechRadar • Security.org • McAfee • CSIRO Verified

A complete guide to the safest, most reliable VPNs for your phone — including the best free options, what Proton VPN actually offers, and the hard truth about dangerous apps like SuperVPN that put your personal data at serious risk. Independent. Unsponsored. Always in your corner.

💡 10 Key Things to Know Before You Download a VPN

A VPN — Virtual Private Network — creates an encrypted tunnel between your phone and the internet, shielding your browsing activity from hackers on public Wi-Fi, your internet provider, and data-hungry apps. But not all VPNs are created equal: independent research shows that 88% of free VPN apps leak identifiable data, and 38% of free VPN apps in the Google Play Store have been found to contain malware. The good news: a small number of genuinely trustworthy free options exist alongside excellent paid services. The bad news: apps like SuperVPN — with over 360 million records leaked in a single 2023 breach — remain dangerously popular. Here is what you need to know before you download anything.

1
What does a VPN actually do on my phone? It encrypts all internet traffic leaving your Android or iPhone, hides your real IP address, and creates a secure private tunnel so no one — not hackers, your internet provider, or apps — can see what you are doing online.
When you connect to a VPN on your phone, all data sent and received is scrambled using encryption (AES-256 is the gold standard, equivalent to bank-level security) before leaving your device. This matters most on public Wi-Fi — coffee shops, airports, hotels — where your connection is otherwise visible to anyone on the same network. A VPN also masks your IP address, replacing it with the VPN server’s IP, so websites cannot track your real location. The Android operating system offers deeper VPN integration than iOS — Android 15 and 16 include a system-level “Always-On VPN” and automatic kill switch that cuts the internet if the VPN drops, a feature that requires third-party workarounds on iPhones.
2
Is Proton VPN really free, and is it safe? Yes. Proton VPN Free is the most consistently top-ranked genuinely free VPN available in 2026 — unlimited data, no logs, no ads, independently audited in August 2025, and open-source. The only meaningful limit is no server choice on the free plan.
Proton VPN Free is backed by Proton AG, a Swiss privacy company founded by CERN scientists. It provides unlimited bandwidth (rare among free VPNs), AES-256 encryption, WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, a kill switch, and a strict no-logs policy verified by an independent Securitum audit in August 2025. Both the paid and free apps are open-source — their code is publicly viewable for security scrutiny, the gold standard in VPN transparency. On Android, Proton VPN now offers a Guest Mode where no account is needed at all. Free plan limitations: servers in 10 countries, no server selection (auto-connected to fastest), one device at a time, no streaming support. For daily private browsing, email, and general use, it is an exceptional free tool.
3
Is SuperVPN safe to download and use? No. SuperVPN is dangerous and should not be used. It has suffered two major data breaches (21 million records in 2021; 360 million records in 2023), logs user IP addresses, lacks bank-grade encryption, has no kill switch, and received a 0.1/10 privacy rating from independent reviewers.
SuperVPN was removed from Google Play in April 2020 for security vulnerabilities (though later reinstated). In 2021, 21 million user records were leaked including emails, payment info, device IDs, and IMSI numbers. In 2023, a second breach exposed 360 million records including real IP addresses, geolocation data, secret keys, and links to websites users had visited. A 2016 CSIRO study of 283 Android VPN apps ranked SuperVPN as one of the most malicious. It keeps logs of your IP address (stated in its own privacy policy), uses unknown encryption protocols, has no kill switch, and its true corporate ownership cannot be verified — with suspected links to China. If you have SuperVPN installed on your phone, cybersecurity experts including McAfee strongly advise deleting it immediately.
4
What is the best free VPN for Android? Proton VPN Free is the best free VPN for Android in 2026 — unlimited data, no data cap, audited no-logs policy, open-source code, and a Guest Mode that requires no account. Windscribe is the best free VPN for bypassing geo-blocks.
Proton VPN Free edges out all competitors for Android because it is the only free VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth with credible, independently verified privacy protections. Most free VPNs impose data limits of 500 MB to 10 GB per month, which is inadequate for regular use. Windscribe free provides 10 GB/month (15 GB if you tweet about it) across 13 servers and is the strongest free option for accessing geo-restricted content. In February 2026, Dutch authorities seized a Windscribe server without warning and found literally no user data on it — a real-world confirmation of its no-logs claims. For Android users who want to try a premium VPN risk-free, NordVPN and Surfshark both offer 30-day money-back guarantees effectively functioning as free trials.
5
What is the best free VPN for iPhone? Proton VPN Free is also the best free VPN for iPhone — its iOS app was completely redesigned in April 2025 with a simplified, senior-friendly interface. CyberGhost offers a 7-day free trial on iOS requiring no payment method at all.
Proton VPN refreshed its iOS app in April 2025, replacing the complex map interface with a clean, simple design featuring a large one-tap connect button. TechRadar describes it as now being “among the best VPN apps on the market” for user-friendliness, including clear feature explanations in-app. A limitation iOS users should be aware of: on iPhone, VPN apps cannot implement a true kill switch independently — unlike Android where it is built into the OS at the system level. CyberGhost is notable for its iOS trial: 7 days, no payment method required, no auto-charge risk. TunnelBear is another free option on iOS with a friendly bear-themed design suitable for beginners, though it limits free users to 2 GB per month — suitable for occasional use only.
6
Are free VPNs really safe to use, or should I pay? Most free VPNs are not safe. Research shows 88% of free VPNs leak identifiable data, 72% include trackers, and 38% contain malware. The exceptions — Proton VPN Free, Windscribe Free, and Hide.me Free — operate legitimate freemium models without selling your data.
The fundamental economics of free VPNs create a dangerous incentive: if you are not paying for the product, your data is typically the product. Studies have found that most free VPN apps sell or share user browsing data, inject ads, or contain malware. One 2024 example: the U.S. Justice Department dismantled one of the largest botnets ever discovered, propagated largely through users who had unknowingly installed free VPN apps that converted their phones into botnet nodes. The safe free VPNs work differently — they use a freemium model where free users are advertising for a paid upgrade, not a product being monetized directly. If your privacy, financial transactions, or health information pass through your phone, a paid VPN at $3–$4 per month is a small price for reliable protection.
7
What is the best overall paid VPN for Android and iPhone? NordVPN is the top-rated overall paid VPN for Android in 2026, with a 4.6/5 rating from over 1 million Google Play reviews. Proton VPN Plus and ExpressVPN are the leading choices for iPhone users who prioritize privacy and usability respectively.
NordVPN stands out for Android with 9,000+ servers in 118 countries, a built-in adblocker (Threat Protection), Double VPN (routing through two servers for extra security), and a Google Play store rating of 4.6 from over 1 million reviews — one of the highest of any VPN app. It reduced download speeds by just 6% and upload speeds by just 4% in independent testing. For iPhone users, ExpressVPN introduced iOS widgets and Siri shortcuts in September 2025, allowing you to toggle the VPN on and off without opening the app — a significant convenience improvement. Proton VPN Plus (paid) adds NetShield ad and malware blocking, Secure Core multi-hop routing through hardened Swiss servers, and streaming support to its already-strong privacy foundation.
8
How do I download and set up Proton VPN on my phone? Search “Proton VPN” in the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iPhone). Download the official app from Proton AG. Create a free account or use Guest Mode (Android). Tap the large “Quick Connect” button. Done — you are protected in under 60 seconds.
Setup takes three simple steps. Step 1: Open your phone’s app store and search for “Proton VPN.” Download the official app only from Proton AG. Step 2: Create a free account at proton.me or use Guest Mode on Android (no account required). Step 3: Open the app and tap “Quick Connect.” The app automatically connects you to the fastest available server. The new April 2025 interface is simple enough for first-time VPN users to navigate without confusion. For Android, also consider enabling “Always-On VPN” in your phone settings (Settings › Network › VPN) to keep the VPN running automatically at all times — a critical privacy step that keeps you protected even when apps reconnect in the background.
9
What is a VPN kill switch and why does every senior need it? A kill switch cuts your internet connection instantly if the VPN drops, preventing your real IP address and unencrypted traffic from being exposed. On Android, it can be enabled at the system level — the safest option. On iPhone, it requires a VPN app that implements it via its own mechanism.
Older adults who use their phones for banking, medical portal access, Medicare communication, or financial account management are high-value targets for identity theft. A kill switch is the last line of defense: if your VPN connection drops for any reason — a server issue, a network hiccup — without a kill switch your phone silently reverts to an unprotected connection, exposing whatever you are doing to anyone watching. On Android 15 and 16, the system-level kill switch (sometimes called “Block connections without VPN” in settings) is independent of the VPN app itself, so it keeps working even if the VPN app crashes. On iPhone, Proton VPN and NordVPN both implement their own kill switch mechanisms. Enable it in the VPN app settings as soon as you install.
10
What are the red flags that a free VPN app is dangerous? Avoid any VPN with unknown or untraceable ownership, no named encryption protocol, no independent audit, a vague privacy policy that mentions “partner” data sharing, or a history of data breaches. SuperVPN, Betternet, and Psiphon VPN all show multiple red flags.
Five concrete warning signs to look for before downloading any free VPN: (1) The company’s name, address, and real-world ownership cannot be verified — SuperVPN’s owner was described by researchers as leaving “false trails created by fake addresses.” (2) The privacy policy does not clearly name what data is collected and never shared. (3) The app has never been independently audited. (4) There is no kill switch feature. (5) The app requires excessive permissions — contacts, camera, microphone, location — that a VPN has no legitimate reason to access. Stick to VPNs from companies that name their jurisdiction (Switzerland, Iceland, Panama, Romania are favorable), publish transparency reports, and have undergone independent third-party audits.

Sources: TechRadar Best Free VPN updated Mar 25 2026 (Proton #1; unlimited; Windscribe Feb 2026 server seizure no logs); Top10VPN Best Free VPN Mar 2026 (88% free VPNs leak identifiable data; 70% users choose free; Proton #1); VPNOverview Best Free VPN 2026 (Securitum audit Aug 2025; Proton Guest Mode Android; 10 free server locations); Security.org Best Android VPN updated Mar 20 2026 (Android Always-On VPN; kill switch system-level Android 15/16; iOS limitations); McAfee Blog SuperVPN (21M records; 360M 2023; delete immediately); Cloudwards Worst VPN Mar 2026 (SuperVPN data breaches 2021/2023; Google Play removal Apr 2020/Apr 2022; malware vectors study); SafetyDetectives SuperVPN Review 2026 (0.1/10 privacy; no kill switch; logs IP; no AES-256; vague policy); TechRadar Free VPN iPhone (Proton iOS refresh Apr 2025; large connect button; email support only); Engadget Free VPN Trials Feb 6 2026 (CyberGhost 7-day no payment required iOS/Android; PIA 7-day; Windscribe 10GB free); Bitlaunch Free VPN Safety Sep 2025 (72% trackers; 38% malware; US DOJ 2024 botnet free VPN apps); CSIRO 2016 (283 Android VPN apps; SuperVPN malicious features)

🏆 10 Best VPNs for Android & iPhone — Ranked & Verified

⚠️ VPN Features and Prices Change — Always Verify Before Subscribing

All pricing, plan details, server counts, and features below are verified from official sources and independent expert reviews as of March 2026. VPN plans change frequently. Always confirm current pricing and features at the provider’s official website before subscribing. This guide does not accept advertising or affiliate commissions from any VPN provider listed.

Best Free VPN Overall — Android & iPhone

Proton VPN Free — No Data Cap, No Logs, No Ads

🇨🇭 Swiss-Based • Open-Source • Independently Audited • Free Forever Plan

💰 Cost: Free (forever) • Paid plans from $2.99/mo • No credit card for free plan • 1 device

✅ Unlimited bandwidth — no data cap

✅ AES-256 encryption; WireGuard & OpenVPN

✅ Kill switch on Android & iOS

✅ Strict no-logs policy; Securitum audited Aug 2025

✅ Open-source apps; publicly audited code

✅ No ads; no tracking; freemium model

✅ Android Guest Mode: no account needed

⚠️ No server selection on free; 10 countries only

Proton VPN Free is the unanimous top recommendation from TechRadar, Top10VPN, VPNOverview, Security.org, and Engadget for best overall free VPN in 2026. It is operated by Proton AG — a Swiss company founded by CERN and MIT scientists with a mission of internet privacy for all — which operates under Switzerland’s strong privacy laws and outside U.S./EU legal jurisdiction. The free plan provides unlimited data (no monthly cap), AES-256 encryption, both WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, a kill switch, and IP and DNS leak protection. The no-logs policy was independently verified by Securitum in August 2025. The iOS app was completely redesigned in April 2025 with a cleaner, simpler interface suitable for seniors and first-time VPN users. Android users benefit from Guest Mode, which allows use without creating any account. The Proton 2025 autumn/winter roadmap announced by CEO Andy Yen includes a new VPN architecture upgrade and a Data Breach Observatory (launched October 2025) that anyone can use to check if their personal data has been exposed. Free plan limitation: you are automatically connected to the fastest of 10 available country servers and cannot manually choose. Streaming is not supported on the free plan — upgrade to paid for Netflix and other geo-restricted content.

📱 Android: Search “Proton VPN” in Google Play Store • Developer: Proton AG
🍎 iPhone: Search “Proton VPN” in App Store • Developer: Proton AG
🌐 Website: ProtonVPN.com • Free account: Proton.me/vpn

Unlimited Free Data Swiss Privacy Law Aug 2025 Audit Open-Source Code No Account (Android) Kill Switch Included

Best Overall Paid VPN for Android

NordVPN — 9,000+ Servers, AI Scam Protection, 4.6★ Play Store

🇵🇦 Panama-Based • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee • No Free Plan

💰 From $3.39/mo (2-year Basic plan) • 30-day money-back • 10 devices • No truly free plan

✅ 9,000+ servers in 118 countries

✅ 4.6/5 Google Play rating; 1M+ reviews

✅ Speed loss: ~6% download; ~4% upload

✅ Threat Protection: malware + ad blocker

✅ Double VPN: traffic through two servers

✅ Scam call protection (EU Jul 2025; global 2026)

✅ No-logs audited 5 times; infra audited late 2025

✅ AV-TEST rated Threat Protection best-in-class

NordVPN is the top-rated paid VPN for Android in independent 2026 testing by Security.org, based on a two-week hands-on evaluation of 50+ VPN apps. It earns its position through an exceptional combination of speed (just 6% download speed reduction in tests), massive server infrastructure (9,000+ servers in 118 countries), and a 4.6/5 Google Play rating from over 1 million verified user reviews — among the highest store ratings of any VPN app. Its Threat Protection Pro feature was rated best-in-class by Germany’s AV-TEST in head-to-head testing, blocking 87 of 100 malicious URLs (Bitdefender antivirus, by comparison, blocked 89). NordVPN introduced scam call protection in July 2025 and expanded it to Europe and beyond in 2026, helping users avoid phone scams during calls. The Double VPN feature routes traffic through two separate servers for users who need exceptional privacy — particularly valuable for older adults managing financial accounts or Medicare communications. The five independent audits of its no-logs policy, plus an infrastructure audit in late 2025, provide an unusually strong assurance track record. Basic plan includes all VPN features; Plus adds Threat Protection Pro and a password manager.

📱 Android: Google Play • iPhone: App Store • Developer: Nord Security
🌐 Website: NordVPN.com • 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
⚠️ No genuine free plan — use 30-day money-back as a risk-free trial

4.6★ 1M+ Reviews Double VPN Scam Call Protection 5 No-Log Audits 9,000+ Servers AV-TEST Top Rated

Best Free VPN for Bypassing Geo-Blocks

Windscribe Free — RAM-Only Servers, Verified No-Logs

🇨🇦 Canada-Based • RAM-Only Servers • 10 GB/Month Free

💰 Free: 10 GB/month (13 servers) • Paid: $5.75/mo • No logs verified in real-world court case

✅ RAM-only servers: no data survives a server seizure

✅ Feb 2026: Dutch authorities seized server; no data found

✅ 10 GB/month free; 13 server locations

✅ No data selling; no ads; freemium model

✅ FreshScribe infrastructure upgrade late 2025

✅ AmneziaWG support: bypasses blocks in Iran/Russia

✅ Anti-fingerprinting update Sep 2025

⚠️ 10 GB/month may not be enough for heavy users

Windscribe earned a remarkable real-world validation of its privacy claims in February 2026 when Dutch law enforcement seized one of its servers without a warrant. Because Windscribe uses a RAM-only (diskless) server architecture, authorities found nothing — just a stock Ubuntu installation with zero user logs or data present. TechRadar describes this as “a rare real-world validation of their no-logs claims.” This makes Windscribe one of the most credibly privacy-verified free VPNs available. The FreshScribe infrastructure overhaul rolled out in late 2025 improved speed and reliability. Windscribe also announced in January 2026 that it is expanding AmneziaWG protocol support, providing native app solutions for users in Iran and Russia to bypass state censorship blocks. The free plan provides 10 GB per month (15 GB if you tweet about Windscribe — an unusual but effective referral approach) and access to 13 server locations. The iPhone app is noted specifically for its intuitive interface. For users who need reliable access to geo-restricted content without paying, Windscribe consistently outperforms Proton VPN Free in unblocking capabilities.

📱 Android: Google Play • iPhone: App Store • Also on Fire TV, Apple TV, Linux
🌐 Website: Windscribe.com • Free plan: No credit card required
⚠️ 10 GB/month free — suitable for moderate browsing, not heavy video streaming

RAM-Only Servers Feb 2026 Proven No-Logs 10 GB Free/Month Censorship Bypass Anti-Fingerprinting

Best for iPhone Users — Simplest Setup

ExpressVPN — Lightway Protocol, 23+ Audits, iOS Widgets & Siri

🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands • Most-Audited VPN • No Free Plan

💰 Paid only; 30-day money-back guarantee • 8 devices • Proprietary Lightway protocol

✅ Most independently audited VPN: 23 audits to date

✅ iOS widgets + Siri shortcuts (Sep 2025): no-app toggle

✅ Proprietary Lightway protocol: fast, lightweight

✅ Network Lock kill switch (tested, confirmed working)

✅ Simple, clean interface for all skill levels

✅ Pulled India servers when logging law passed (strong privacy stance)

⚠️ More expensive than competitors

⚠️ No port forwarding, no multi-hop, fewer advanced features

ExpressVPN has more independent audits than any other VPN provider — 23 to date, covering both its no-logs policy and its app security. This audit frequency provides an exceptionally strong assurance track record. The Lightway protocol, developed in-house, is designed specifically for mobile devices: it maintains VPN connections through network changes (switching from Wi-Fi to cellular, for example) without dropping, and reconnects much faster than WireGuard or OpenVPN when a connection is interrupted. For iPhone users specifically, the September 2025 iOS widget and Siri shortcuts update is a significant usability improvement — you can now say “Hey Siri, turn on VPN” or tap a home screen widget without opening the app, making it the most frictionless VPN experience for iPhone users. ExpressVPN keeps things deliberately simple: no multi-hop, no port forwarding, no overly complex settings — just a clean interface that works. The privacy commitment is real: when India passed a law requiring VPNs to log user traffic, ExpressVPN immediately pulled its physical servers from India rather than comply.

📱 iPhone: App Store • Android: Google Play • Developer: ExpressVPN International Ltd.
🌐 Website: ExpressVPN.com • 30-day money-back guarantee
📱 iOS: Enable widget from home screen widget picker after installation

23 Independent Audits iOS Widget + Siri Control Lightway Protocol Most Beginner-Friendly No India Server Logging

Best for Families — Unlimited Devices

Surfshark — Unlimited Device Connections, GPS Masking on Android

🇳🇱 Netherlands-Based • 7-Day Free Trial • Unlimited Simultaneous Devices

💰 7-day free trial (website activation) • 30-day money-back • Unlimited devices on all plans

✅ Unlimited simultaneous device connections

✅ Android: hides GPS data matching VPN IP location

✅ Download speed: only 8% reduction (tested)

✅ CleanWeb: ad and shady site blocker

✅ Dynamic MultiHop: double-VPN for extra privacy

✅ Alternative ID: email alias generator

✅ Netflix: works with 20+ country libraries

⚠️ Upload speeds slower than NordVPN in tests

Surfshark is the best choice for households with multiple people sharing one account, because it is one of the only VPNs that allows unlimited simultaneous device connections on a single subscription. A family where parents, adult children, and potentially grandchildren all want VPN protection on their phones can share one Surfshark account at no extra cost. The Android-specific GPS masking feature is particularly valuable: Surfshark not only changes your IP address but also matches your phone’s reported GPS coordinates to the VPN server location, making it far harder for mobile apps to detect that a VPN is in use — a significant advantage for streaming. The 7-day free trial is activated from the Surfshark website (not the app directly) and provides full access to all features including streaming and torrenting on three devices simultaneously. Dynamic MultiHop (dual VPN through two servers) and CleanWeb (ad and malicious site blocking) are available on the standard Starter plan without any upgrade required.

📱 Android: Google Play • iPhone: App Store • Also: Fire TV, Apple TV, Linux, routers
🌐 Website: Surfshark.com • Start free trial from website (not app store)
⚠️ Payment method required for trial — cancel before 7 days to avoid charge

Unlimited Devices GPS Masking Android 7-Day Free Trial 20+ Netflix Libraries Dynamic MultiHop

Best Free Trial: No Payment Info Required

CyberGhost VPN — 7-Day iOS Trial; No Credit Card Needed

🇷🇴 Romania-Based • NoSpy Servers • 7-Day iOS Trial Without Payment Info

💰 7-day free trial (iOS) with NO payment info • Android: 3 days free • Paid from ~$2.19/mo (3-year plan)

✅ iOS: 7-day trial, no credit card required at all

✅ Android: 3-day trial, no payment info needed

✅ Full feature access during trial (no restrictions)

✅ NoSpy servers: high-security servers in Romania HQ

✅ Streaming-optimized server profiles for Netflix etc.

✅ Smart Rules: automate VPN behavior per network/app

✅ 45-day money-back guarantee (longest available)

⚠️ Desktop trial only 24 hours; mobile much better

CyberGhost offers the most risk-free VPN trial available anywhere: 7 days on iPhone and iPad with complete feature access and absolutely no payment information required — you cannot accidentally be charged because you never provide a card. Download the app, click the trial button, use it fully for 7 days, and simply stop using it if you decide not to subscribe. Engadget describes it as uniquely the only leading VPN offering a no-payment-info trial. CyberGhost’s NoSpy server network — physically located and operated at CyberGhost’s Romanian headquarters — provides an additional layer of security for users who want the most private server option available: no third-party data center operators, no external access. Romania is outside the 5-Eyes, 9-Eyes, and 14-Eyes intelligence sharing alliances, providing stronger legal privacy protection than U.S. or UK-based providers. The 45-day money-back guarantee on paid plans is the longest of any major VPN provider — more than four times longer than the standard 10-day guarantee offered by many competitors.

🍎 iPhone/iPad: App Store • 7-day trial: no payment info needed • Just download and tap trial
📱 Android: Google Play • 3-day trial: no payment info needed
🌐 Website: CyberGhost.com • 45-day money-back on paid plans

7-Day No-Payment Trial NoSpy Romania Servers 45-Day Money-Back Streaming-Optimized Outside 14-Eyes

Best for Customization & Heavy Users

Private Internet Access (PIA) — Unlimited Connections, Open-Source

🇺🇸 U.S.-Based • Open-Source • 7-Day Mobile Free Trial • Unlimited Connections

💰 7-day free trial (iOS and Android, payment required) • 30-day money-back • Unlimited devices

✅ Open-source apps (all platforms)

✅ Unlimited simultaneous device connections

✅ Customizable: choose encryption level and protocol

✅ IPv6 support; dynamic port forwarding

✅ 7-day mobile trial (iOS and Android)

✅ Servers in 91 locations; 4.0+ Play Store rating

⚠️ Payment required to start 7-day trial

⚠️ U.S.-based: subject to U.S. legal jurisdiction

Private Internet Access (PIA) is the choice for users who want maximum control over their VPN settings. Unlike most VPNs that lock you into one encryption and protocol choice, PIA allows you to select your encryption level (128-bit AES for speed or 256-bit AES for maximum security), choose your protocol (WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IPSec), and configure split tunneling (routing only specific apps through the VPN while others bypass it). Its apps are fully open-source, meaning the code is publicly available for security scrutiny. PIA provides unlimited device connections on all plans — like Surfshark, making it family-friendly. The 7-day mobile trial is available on both iOS and Android, but does require payment information; cancel within 7 days to avoid charges. PIA’s Stealth Guard feature acts as an application-level kill switch, blocking specific apps from connecting to the internet unless the VPN is active — useful for financial and health apps specifically.

📱 iOS and Android: 7-day trial from app store (payment info required)
🌐 Website: PrivateInternetAccess.com • 30-day money-back on paid plans
⚠️ Cancel before 7 days to avoid charge on trial

Open-Source All Apps Unlimited Connections Stealth Guard App Kill Switch Maximum Customization 7-Day Mobile Trial

Most Senior-Friendly Free VPN Interface

TunnelBear Free — Beginner Design, Annual Public Audits

🇨🇦 Canada-Based • Annual Third-Party Audits • Free: 2 GB/Month

💰 Free: 2 GB/month (unlimited devices but 2 GB cap) • Paid: from ~$3.33/mo • No streaming

✅ Bear-themed interface: simplest VPN design available

✅ Annual independent audits — published publicly

✅ WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols

✅ Kill switch confirmed working in tests

✅ No IP leaks detected in independent testing

✅ Annual transparency report published

⚠️ Only 2 GB/month free — very limited for regular use

⚠️ No streaming support; limited device compatibility

TunnelBear has the most user-friendly VPN interface available — a charming bear-themed design with a simple map where you tap a country and a cartoon bear tunnels through the earth to connect. For seniors or anyone new to VPNs who find complex security interfaces intimidating, TunnelBear’s approachable visual design removes the learning curve entirely. The security fundamentals are solid: it undergoes annual independent third-party audits (published publicly each year), publishes an annual transparency report, supports WireGuard for fast mobile connections, and confirmed no IP leaks in testing. Its kill switch was also confirmed working in independent tests. The major limitation for free users is the 2 GB monthly data cap — enough for roughly 40 hours of basic browsing but exhausted quickly by video calls or video streaming. At 2 GB, it is primarily useful for occasional use: coffee shop Wi-Fi security, checking email on hotel networks, or occasional sensitive browsing. For daily VPN use, upgrade to the paid plan or use Proton VPN Free’s unlimited data instead.

📱 Android: Google Play • iPhone: App Store • Developer: TunnelBear LLC (McAfee company)
🌐 Website: TunnelBear.com • Free account: no credit card required
⚠️ 2 GB/month free — use for occasional browsing only; upgrade for daily use

Simplest Interface Annual Public Audits Bear Map Design No IP Leaks Confirmed Senior-Friendly

Fastest Free VPN in Speed Tests

Hotspot Shield Free — Proprietary Hydra Protocol, 500 MB/Day

🇺🇸 U.S.-Based • Hydra Protocol • Free: 500 MB/Day (15 GB/Month)

💰 Free: 500 MB/day • 1 device • U.S. server only • Paid from ~$2.99/mo • 7-day trial paid

✅ Fastest free VPN in Top10VPN speed tests

✅ Proprietary Hydra protocol optimized for mobile

✅ 500 MB/day (approx. 15 GB/month) free

✅ No-logs policy (audited 2023)

✅ Simple, clean interface on Android and iOS

⚠️ Free plan: U.S. servers only — no location choice

⚠️ U.S. jurisdiction: subject to U.S. legal process

⚠️ Displays ads on free plan

Hotspot Shield is consistently ranked as the fastest free VPN in independent speed comparisons, thanks to its proprietary Hydra protocol — an optimized mobile-first connection protocol that maintains fast speeds even on congested networks. Its free plan provides 500 MB per day (approximately 15 GB per month), which is more generous than TunnelBear but less flexible than Proton VPN Free or Windscribe. The free plan is limited to U.S. servers only, making it primarily useful for privacy protection rather than accessing content from other countries. Security.org ranks it as the top free VPN for 2026 in speed-focused testing. The no-logs policy was last independently audited in 2023 — the audit gap is worth noting, as Proton VPN’s more recent August 2025 audit provides fresher assurance. Hotspot Shield is a reasonable choice for someone who primarily needs fast, basic VPN protection at no cost and does not require server location choice. The U.S. jurisdiction means that while it claims not to log, a U.S. court order could compel disclosure of whatever minimal data it does retain.

📱 Android: Google Play • iPhone: App Store • Developer: Pango (formerly AnchorFree)
🌐 Website: HotspotShield.com • Free account: no credit card required for free plan
⚠️ Ads shown on free plan; U.S. server only on free tier

Fastest Free Speed Tests Hydra Protocol 500 MB/Day Free Simple Interface No Account Required

⚠️ Security Warning — Do NOT Use

SuperVPN (SuperVPN Fast VPN Client) — Dangerous: Delete Immediately

🚫 Android-Only • 100M+ Downloads • Multiple Major Data Breaches • Avoid

🚫 DO NOT DOWNLOAD OR USE • Logs your IP address • Two major data breaches • Deleted from Google Play twice

❌ 2021 breach: 21 million user records leaked

❌ 2023 breach: 360 million records exposed

❌ Logs user IP addresses (admitted in its own policy)

❌ No kill switch — traffic exposed if VPN drops

❌ Unknown encryption protocol — no transparency

❌ Owner identity unverifiable; suspected China links

❌ 0.1/10 privacy rating (SafetyDetectives)

❌ Removed from Google Play twice for security failures

SuperVPN is one of the most dangerous apps masquerading as a privacy tool on Android. It has suffered not one but two catastrophic data breaches: in 2021, over 21 million user records were exposed on a public hacking forum, including emails, payment data, device IDs, and location logs. In 2023, cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler uncovered an unsecured database containing 360 million SuperVPN records including real IP addresses, geolocation data, secret keys, and links to websites users had visited — the opposite of privacy. SuperVPN’s own privacy policy admits it logs your IP address, despite claiming to be a no-logs VPN. It has no kill switch, no identified encryption protocol, and no independent audit. The app was first removed from the Google Play Store in April 2020 for security vulnerabilities that enabled man-in-the-middle attacks, then reinstated. Independent reviewers at SafetyDetectives gave it a 0.1/10 privacy rating. McAfee specifically advises users to delete SuperVPN immediately. This is not a harmless low-quality app — it is an active security risk. If you have SuperVPN installed, uninstall it now and replace it with Proton VPN Free.

🚫 DO NOT DOWNLOAD SuperVPN from any source
🗑️ If installed: Go to Settings › Apps › SuperVPN › Uninstall immediately
🔒 Replace with: Proton VPN Free (ProtonVPN.com) — unlimited, safe, audited

360M Records Leaked 2023 Logs Your IP Address No Kill Switch Removed Google Play Twice Delete Immediately

Sources: TechRadar Best Free VPN Mar 25 2026 (Proton #1 unlimited; Windscribe RAM-only Feb 2026 Dutch seizure no data; open-source; CEO roadmap Oct 2025); VPNOverview Best Free VPN 2026 (Proton #1; Securitum Aug 2025 audit; Guest Mode Android; 10 free countries; no ads; no logs); Top10VPN Best Free VPN Mar 2026 (88% free VPNs leak data; Proton top; Windscribe; TunnelBear 2 GB; SuperVPN 0.1/10 privacy); Security.org Best Android VPN Mar 20 2026 (NordVPN #1; Proton best free Android; 50+ tested; 2-week evaluation); Security.org Best VPN 2026 Mar 23 2026 (NordVPN; PIA unlimited; ExpressVPN; Hotspot Shield 2023 audit); Tom’s Guide Best VPN Mar 2026 (NordVPN Threat Protection AV-TEST; ExpressVPN iOS widget Sep 2025 Siri; scam call protection Jul 2025 EU/2026 global; Proton refreshed Apr 2025); TheBestVPN Best Android Feb 19 2026 (NordVPN 4.6/5 1M+ reviews; 9,000+ servers 118 countries; Proton $2.99/mo 2-year; 50M+ downloads 4.6 Play); Engadget Free Trials Feb 6 2026 (CyberGhost iOS 7-day no payment; Android 3-day no payment; PIA iOS Android 7-day payment required; Windscribe 10 GB free); McAfee Blog SuperVPN (21M 2021; 360M 2023; delete immediately; 38% malware free VPN apps); Cloudwards Worst VPN Mar 2026 (SuperVPN 2021 21M; 2023 360M; Google Play Apr 2020 removal; man-in-middle; 2022 also removed; NordVPN 2018 comparison); SafetyDetectives SuperVPN 2026 (0.1/10 privacy; no kill switch; no AES-256; no protocol disclosed; logs IP in own policy; vague policy); Top10VPN SuperVPN Review Nov 2024 (logs IP; no kill switch; unknown ownership; suspected China links; avoid); SecureBlitz Dangerous VPNs Oct 2025 (SuperVPN malware injections; VPN jurisdiction importance; VPN Master same category); Bitlaunch Free VPN Safety Sep 2025 (72% trackers in free VPNs; 38% malware; DOJ 2024 botnet via free VPN apps); CSIRO 2016 study 283 Android VPN apps (SuperVPN 13 malicious features; referenced in multiple 2025 reviews)

📊 Free VPN Safety — Key Numbers You Need to Know

🚨 Free VPNs That Leak Your Data

88%

Independent testing by Top10VPN found that 88% of free VPN apps leak identifiable user data — including real IP addresses, DNS queries, and browsing patterns — despite claiming to protect privacy. Only a handful of genuinely trustworthy free VPNs exist.

🧹 Free VPN Apps with Malware

38%

McAfee and researchers found that 38% of free VPN applications in the Google Play Store contain malware. A separate analysis found 72% include third-party trackers. In 2024, the U.S. Justice Department dismantled a major botnet propagated largely through malicious free VPN apps.

📄 SuperVPN Records Exposed

360 Million

In 2023 alone, a single SuperVPN database breach exposed 360 million records including real IP addresses, geolocation data, secret keys, and website visit history. A 2021 breach exposed an additional 21 million records. SuperVPN is one of the most downloaded apps in Play Store history.

✅ Proton VPN Play Store Downloads

50M+

Proton VPN has surpassed 50 million downloads on Google Play with a 4.6/5 rating — matching NordVPN’s score. It is the most downloaded free VPN with independently verified privacy credentials, zero data caps, and open-source code reviewed publicly for security vulnerabilities.

🚨 If You Have SuperVPN on Your Phone — Delete It Now

SuperVPN has over 100 million installs on Android. If your phone has it, take these steps right now:

On Android: Go to Settings › Apps (or Application Manager) › find SuperVPN › tap Uninstall. Then go to Settings › Network › VPN and remove any VPN profile SuperVPN may have added.
After uninstalling: Change the password to any account you accessed while SuperVPN was active — including email, banking, Medicare portal, or Social Security account — because SuperVPN logged your IP address and the websites you visited, and that data was publicly exposed in the 2023 breach.
Replace with: Download Proton VPN from Google Play (search “Proton VPN” — developer: Proton AG). It is free, has unlimited data, and is independently audited. If you are on iPhone, search “Proton VPN” in the App Store. No payment method or credit card is ever required for the free plan.

Sources: Top10VPN (88% free VPNs leak identifiable data; expert testing 2025–2026); McAfee Blog (38% free VPN Play Store apps contain malware; 72% trackers; 100M SuperVPN installs; 2024 DOJ botnet); Cloudwards Worst VPN Mar 2026 (SuperVPN Play Store history; data breach history); VPNOverview 2026 (50M+ Proton downloads; 4.6 Play Store rating)

📋 VPNs for Android & iPhone Compared at a Glance

Pricing and features verified from official VPN provider sources and independent expert reviews as of March 2026. Free plan limits, trial conditions, and paid plan pricing change regularly — always confirm at the official website before subscribing.

VPN	Free Plan	Data Limit	Kill Switch	Audited
Proton VPN Free	Yes (forever)	Unlimited	Yes	Aug 2025
Windscribe Free	Yes (forever)	10 GB/month	Yes	Proven Feb 2026
TunnelBear Free	Yes (forever)	2 GB/month	Yes	Annual
Hotspot Shield Free	Yes (forever)	500 MB/day	Yes	2023
CyberGhost	7-day trial iOS (no card)	Full access trial	Yes	Regular
NordVPN	30-day money-back	Unlimited	Yes	5 audits
ExpressVPN	30-day money-back	Unlimited	Yes	23 audits
Surfshark	7-day trial (card required)	Unlimited	Yes	Regular
Private Internet Access	7-day mobile (card required)	Unlimited	Yes	Open-source
SuperVPN	DANGEROUS — DO NOT USE	Logs your data	No	Never

Sources: TechRadar; VPNOverview; Top10VPN; Security.org; SafetyDetectives (all March 2026). Kill switch: system-level available on Android 15/16; iOS requires VPN app implementation. Paid pricing not shown — compare directly at each provider’s official website.

❓ VPN Questions Answered Plainly

💡 I Am Not Tech-Savvy. Is a VPN Too Complicated for Me?

No — and modern VPNs have become significantly simpler in the past two years specifically to reach everyday users. Proton VPN’s completely redesigned iOS and Android apps (April 2025) feature a single large “Quick Connect” button. You tap it once, and you are protected. TunnelBear is even more approachable with its bear-themed map interface. The only setup step that requires attention is enabling the kill switch in your phone settings (on Android) or in the VPN app settings — a one-time step that keeps you protected automatically. After that, a VPN runs quietly in the background requiring no further interaction. If you encounter any difficulty, both Proton VPN and NordVPN have in-app explanations for every feature in plain language, and a wealth of step-by-step video guides are available on YouTube simply by searching “how to set up Proton VPN on iPhone” or “how to set up Proton VPN on Android.”

💡 Will a VPN Slow Down My Phone’s Internet Connection?

A good VPN reduces your internet speed slightly — the encryption process takes a small amount of time. However, modern VPN protocols like WireGuard have made this reduction minimal: NordVPN slowed download speeds by only 6% in independent testing, which is unnoticeable for browsing, email, or video calls. A poor-quality free VPN (particularly those with limited free server capacity) can slow your connection dramatically because free users are crowded onto a small number of shared servers. This is one reason Proton VPN Free performs better than most free VPNs — free users access the same server infrastructure as paying customers, just in fewer locations. The protocol matters too: WireGuard (used by Proton, NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN’s Lightway equivalent) is significantly faster than older OpenVPN connections. If your current VPN makes your phone feel slow, switch protocols in the VPN app settings to WireGuard first.

💡 Why Do I Need a VPN If I Already Have a Password on My Phone?

A phone password protects the phone if someone physically picks it up. A VPN protects the data your phone sends over the internet while you use it. These are completely different protections. When you connect to a coffee shop Wi-Fi, hotel Wi-Fi, or any public network without a VPN, your internet traffic — including login credentials, financial information, and website visits — can be intercepted by anyone else on that same network using freely available tools. This is particularly important for: banking apps and financial account logins, Medicare or medical portal access, email containing sensitive personal information, and any login on an unfamiliar network. A VPN encrypts all of that traffic so that even if someone intercepts it, they see only scrambled data that cannot be read. For anyone who uses their phone for Medicare management, Social Security account access, or financial transactions, using a VPN on public Wi-Fi is a practical security necessity.

💡 My Phone Says There Is Already a VPN Installed. How Do I Know If It’s Safe?

Check the developer name in your app store listing for the VPN app installed on your phone. Trustworthy VPNs have clearly identified companies with verifiable corporate addresses, public leadership, and published privacy policies that name exactly what data they collect. Suspect any VPN where: the developer name is vague or unverifiable, there is no company website with real contact information, the privacy policy says “we may share data with partners” without specifying who, or the app requires permissions it has no reason to need (contacts, camera, microphone). The specific app “SuperVPN Fast VPN Client” or “SuperVPN Free VPN Client” by SuperSoftTech is dangerous — uninstall it immediately. To find your VPN: Settings › Network (Android) or Settings › VPN (iPhone). If you see an unfamiliar VPN profile that you did not intentionally install, remove it from those settings as well.

💡 Can I Use a VPN to Watch Shows From Other Countries?

Yes — this is one of the most popular uses of paid VPNs. By connecting to a server in another country, a VPN makes streaming services believe you are located there, giving you access to that country’s content library. Netflix in the UK has different shows than Netflix in the U.S.; NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN all reliably unblock Netflix, Disney+, and other major streaming platforms. Important caveat: free VPNs generally do not support streaming. Proton VPN Free, Windscribe Free, TunnelBear Free, and Hotspot Shield Free all restrict streaming on their free plans — it is a paid-tier feature. The streaming limitation on free plans is deliberate: it encourages upgrading to paid while the security features remain fully functional for free. If streaming from other countries is your primary VPN goal, Surfshark ($2.99–$3.99/mo with 30-day money-back) working with 20+ Netflix libraries, and NordVPN working reliably with the major platforms, are the most practical choices.

💡 How Do I Know a VPN Is Actually Working on My Phone?

Three simple ways to confirm your VPN is active and functioning properly. First: Look for the VPN icon (a small key icon on iPhone, or “VPN” in the status bar on Android) at the top of your screen. If the icon is showing, the VPN is connected. Second: Visit ipleak.net in your phone’s browser while the VPN is on. This free website shows your current IP address and location. If the location shown matches the VPN server country (not your real location), the VPN is working. If it shows your real city, there may be a leak. Third: In your VPN app, check that it shows “Connected” with a green indicator and displays the server name and location you are connected to. For Android users who want the strongest protection, enable “Always-On VPN” in Settings › Network › VPN and enable “Block connections without VPN” — this ensures your phone never goes online without the VPN active, even after a restart.

Sources: Security.org Best Android VPN (Android Always-On VPN; system-level kill switch Android 15/16; Settings Network VPN path; iOS limitations); VPNOverview 2026 (Proton free users same infrastructure as paid; WireGuard speed advantage); Tom’s Guide 2026 (NordVPN 6% download speed reduction; WireGuard vs OpenVPN comparison); TechRadar Free VPN iPhone Mar 2026 (Proton iOS April 2025 redesign; quick-connect button; in-app explanations); Engadget Free Trials (free plan streaming restrictions); Surfshark 20+ Netflix libraries; NordVPN streaming reliability; ipleak.net (VPN leak test); McAfee Blog (phone password vs VPN distinction; public Wi-Fi risks; financial data)

✅ Five Steps to Get a Safe VPN on Your Phone Today

Step 1: If SuperVPN is on your phone, delete it right now. Go to Settings › Apps (Android) or press and hold the SuperVPN icon › Delete App (iPhone). It is not a safe privacy tool — it is a data collection risk with two major breach histories. Replace it before doing anything else.
Step 2: Download Proton VPN from your official app store. On Android: open Google Play, search “Proton VPN,” select the app from developer Proton AG, and install it. On iPhone: open the App Store, search “Proton VPN,” and download from Proton AG. Do not download from any other source or click a link in a text message or email that leads to a VPN download — these are common scam vectors.
Step 3: Create a free account and tap Quick Connect. Sign up for free at Proton.me (no payment information ever required). Open the app and tap the large Quick Connect button. You are now protected with unlimited encrypted browsing, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy audited in August 2025. Done.
Step 4: Enable the kill switch for always-on protection. On Android: Go to Settings › Network › VPN › tap the gear icon next to Proton VPN › enable “Always-on VPN” and “Block connections without VPN.” On iPhone: Open the Proton VPN app › Settings › Kill Switch › enable it. This one-time setting keeps you protected even if the VPN drops unexpectedly.
Step 5: Use your VPN every time you are on public Wi-Fi. Home Wi-Fi with a strong password is reasonably secure. Coffee shop, hotel, airport, library, hospital, and any other public Wi-Fi is not. Turn on your VPN before connecting to any public network — especially before accessing Medicare.gov, Social Security online, bank apps, email, or any account containing personal or financial information. With Proton VPN Free running, your data is encrypted regardless of what network you are on.

🚨 Three VPN Mistakes That Put Your Personal Data at Risk

Using a free VPN app without verifying who built it and what it logs. The words “Free VPN” in an app name are not a safety guarantee — they are often a warning sign. SuperVPN is downloaded 100 million times. Most people who installed it believed they were getting privacy protection. Instead they were handing their IP addresses, browsing history, and device information to an unverified operator who then had two massive data breaches. Before installing any VPN, search the developer’s name plus “review” and “privacy” — if the results include breach news, data leaks, or malware reports, do not install it.
Clicking a link in a text message or email to “download a VPN.” VPN scams commonly use fake websites and social media ads to trick users into downloading malicious apps disguised as legitimate VPNs. Always download VPN apps directly from the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store by searching the VPN name, and verify the developer name matches the official company before downloading.
Turning off the VPN for “convenience” and then forgetting to turn it back on. A VPN you forget to use provides no protection. The most effective solution is enabling Always-On VPN in your Android settings (Settings › Network › VPN), which keeps the VPN running automatically at all times without any manual action. On iPhone, enabling the kill switch in the Proton VPN app settings ensures that if the VPN drops, your internet is cut rather than left exposed. Set it up once and let it work in the background every day.

© BudgetSeniors.com — This guide is independently researched and written. We do not accept advertising or affiliate compensation from any VPN provider listed. We do not rank or recommend products based on commercial relationships. All details are verified from official provider websites and independent cybersecurity expert reviews as of March 2026. VPN pricing, features, server counts, and free plan terms change frequently — always verify current details at each provider’s official website before subscribing. Using a VPN does not make you completely anonymous online and does not protect against all cybersecurity threats. For comprehensive digital security, use a VPN alongside a strong unique password for every account and two-factor authentication where available. • Proton VPN: ProtonVPN.com • NordVPN: NordVPN.com • Windscribe: Windscribe.com • ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN.com • CyberGhost: CyberGhost.com • Emergency: If you believe your accounts have been compromised, contact your bank and change all passwords immediately.

Primary sources: TechRadar Best Free VPN updated Mar 25 2026 (Proton #1 unlimited; Windscribe RAM-only Feb 2026 no data seizure; FreshScribe late 2025; AmneziaWG Jan 2026; anti-fingerprinting Sep 2025); Top10VPN Best Free VPN Mar 2026 (88% leak identifiable data; Proton #1; SuperVPN 0.1/10 privacy; TunnelBear 2 GB; Hotspot fastest; open-source gold standard); VPNOverview Best Free VPN 2026 (Securitum audit Aug 2025; Proton Guest Mode Android; 10 free countries; 50M+ downloads 4.6 rating; Data Breach Observatory Oct 2025); Security.org Best Android VPN updated Mar 20 2026 (2-week testing 50+ apps; NordVPN #1; Proton best free Android unlimited; Android 15/16 Always-On kill switch; iOS no system kill switch; IPVanish #4; PIA #5); Security.org Best VPN Mar 23 2026 (NordVPN AV-TEST Threat Protection; 30 criteria; ExpressVPN 23 audits; Hotspot 2023 audit); Security.org Best Free VPN Mar 17 2026 (Hotspot #1 free speed; Surfshark 7-day trial; NordVPN 30-day trial); Tom’s Guide Best VPN Mar 2026 (NordVPN scam call Jul 2025 EU global 2026; Proton iOS refresh Apr 2025; ExpressVPN iOS widget Siri Sep 2025; NordVPN infra audit late 2025; 5th no-log audit end 2024); TheBestVPN Best Android Feb 19 2026 (NordVPN 4.6/5 1M+ reviews 9,000+ servers; Proton $2.99/mo 2-year; 50M+ downloads; PIA 4.0+; Double VPN); Engadget Best Free Trials Feb 6 2026 (CyberGhost iOS 7-day no card; Android 3-day; PIA iOS Android 7-day card required; Windscribe 10 GB free 13 servers; Proton no server selection permanent free); TechRadar Best Free VPN iPhone Mar 2026 (Proton iOS redesign Apr 2025; large connect button; bear map TunnelBear; email support limitation); McAfee Blog SuperVPN (21M records 2021; 360M records 2023; 100M installs; delete immediately; 38% malware 72% trackers); Cloudwards Worst VPN Mar 2026 (SuperVPN 2021 data breach; 2023 Jeremiah Fowler 360M; Google Play Apr 2020 removal man-in-middle; May 2022 removed again; 2023 ChatVPN GeckoVPN same breach); SafetyDetectives SuperVPN Review 2026 (0.1/10 privacy; no kill switch; no AES-256; IP logged in own policy; unknown protocol; no money-back guarantee); Top10VPN SuperVPN Review Nov 2024 (logs IP; no kill switch; unknown ownership; suspected China links; fake addresses; strongly avoid); SecureBlitz Dangerous VPNs Oct 2025 (SuperVPN malware injections; VPN jurisdiction key; VPN Master same category); Bitlaunch Free VPN Safety Sep 2025 (72% trackers; 38% malware; DOJ 2024 botnet free VPN apps); CSIRO 2016 (283 Android VPN apps; SuperVPN 13 malicious features via VirusTotal; referenced 2025 reporting)

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