I find Google Chrome easy to use, and its widespread compatibility definitely makes it one of the best browsers. However, when it comes to user data privacy, Chrome doesn’t deliver.

Yes, Chrome has built-in safeguards for protection from malicious actors, but the browser also ties directly into Google’s advertising business, collecting lots of data. Search activity, browser cookies, your IP address, and even device-specific identifiers, like fonts, are recorded. The information is then used to generate personalized profiles for targeted advertising.

Using a VPN (virtual private network)—even a free one—with Chrome can shield you from some of these practices and make up for the browser’s shortcomings. Let’s look at the three top reasons why you need a VPN for Chrome.

1. Mask Your IP Address

Whenever you search with Chrome, your IP address is shared with the website that you visit. This bit of data is a major identifying factor used by trackers to create a personalized profile. Connecting to a VPN will change the IP address in use, making it appear as though you’re in another geographical location. The IP displayed will be based on the server you connect with. We’ve seen many of the VPN services offer at least 50 server locations. Remember that a VPN won’t make you entirely anonymous, but it’s a good start.

2. Stop Third-Party Trackers in Their Tracks

While Chrome offers an option to block third-party cookies, it does not stop third-party trackers, a feature that the best private browsers offer. If you want to keep using Chrome, adding a VPN service into the mix will make your browsing sessions more private. It won’t block every tracker out there or the third-party cookies already on your system, but it will provide more control.

(Credit: Aryan Surendranath)

I also recommend manually clearing third-party cookies from your system on occasion—more specifically, before you start using a VPN service. You should also use the EFF’s CoverYourTracks website to view how your browser is currently performing and take further steps to protect your online fingerprint.

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3. Prevent WebRTC Data Leakage

The hallmark of any good VPN is that it keeps your IP address hidden at all times. However, browsers—ahem, Google Chrome—sometimes disclose your actual IP, even with an active VPN connection. This occurs because of the WebRTC interface, which is responsible for video calls on platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and others. Unfortunately, Chrome doesn’t offer an option to disable WebRTC or protect your IP from leaking. There is an official extension that forces the browser to use a VPN’s IP for WebRTC connections, but the best VPN services come with tools that actively monitor WebRTC connections and will safeguard your IP at all times.

Also, if your workplace uses these video call platforms, I recommend using one of the best VPNs for businesses with Chrome to keep your IP address secure.

Other Advantages of Using a VPN With Chrome

The above are some of the most important ways a VPN will help in Chrome. However, there are plenty more advantages to keep in mind:

1. Prevent ISP tracking: Your internet service provider logs all your data, from web searches and site visits to downloaded files. A VPN provides protection against this by encrypting the data flow, keeping it safe from prying eyes.

2. Added security on public Wi-Fi: If you often connect to free Wi-Fi in a coffee shop, a VPN will once again isolate your system and its data streams from the public eye. We’d say it’s a must to use a VPN when accessing a public network.

3. Bypass content restrictions: A VPN is also handy if you’re looking to watch content that’s not available in your geographical region. Streaming platforms often have localized catalogs, so if there’s a show you’ve been wanting to watch, but it’s only available in a different country, a VPN could help you stream it. The networks also help bypass internet censorship that may have been set by regional authorities.

4. Find lower prices: It’s common for online stores to use different pricing in different regions. Provided it’s not against a website’s terms of service, using a VPN can help you find lower prices. So, whether you’re booking hotels and flights for your next vacation or trying to find a steal deal on a product, make sure to try a VPN.

Simply put, most users will benefit from using a VPN with Google Chrome. Pairing it is almost a necessity if you’re looking to lock down your online data and prevent advertisers and ISPs from collecting data. It’s not a complete solution, but it’s one of the first steps you should take in reclaiming your online privacy.

About Aryan Surendranath