Why Content Creators Should Use A VPN
If you’re a photographer/filmmaker like me, you probably want to spend the majority of your time shooting or creating, and avoid the computer work as much as possible. But the more serious you get as a photographer/filmmaker, the more you’ll have to be doing computer work: planning shoot times, organizing gear, researching teams and equipment, etc…
One of the best tools to use while on the road is a VPN, or ‘virtual private network’.
What is a VPN and why you should be most likely using one? VPN solutions are becoming more and more popular as it has became the top method for internet users wanting to protect their data and identity. If you’ve ever wondered, “should I be using a VPN right now?”, you probably should be.
What is a VPN?
VPN is an acronym for virtual private network. VPNs are used as a service to encrypt your data and hide your IP address. This allows the user to browse the internet anonymously in a safe and secure way. In general, they provide the user with more security online.
What Are Some Good VPN Options?
There are several VPN options you can choose from and they all have different features; however, all providing you with secured private networks. In my own experience, I have used Surfshark, Express, and Nord while traveling, keeping me online with great results.
What Are They Used For?
The most common cases for internet users to use a VPN are the following:
- When working with confidential information/data
- For applications that are restricted in certain areas (WhatsApp, Netflix)
- When working from unsecure public places
- When torrenting
- Businesses or platforms with multiple locations so employees can access the internet connection
Why Should Content Creators Care?
1.) Content creators frequently connect to third-party networks such as coffee shops or Wi-Fi from public spaces. Connecting to an unknown network is one of the easiest ways to expose your data and information to hackers.
- Theft of personal information such as login credentials, financial information, and personal data can be at risk if you connect to an open network without a VPN.
- Anyone else connected to the same Wi-Fi as you can eavesdrop on your online activities using a tool called a packet sniffer. With a VPN, anybody trying to spy or intercept your information will not be able to do this.
- Fake Wi-Fi hotspots, common Wi-Fi access points setup by hackers to mimic a legitimate hotspot or service provider, are common.
2.) Content creators should prioritize their security and privacy standards especially when dealing with client work. Protecting your files during the exchange process is crucial. A VPN server allows for a safe connection where you can confidently transfer your files with ease. Additionally, VPNs ensure greater safety and offers encryption when dealing with bank transactions.
3.) Data privacy concerns are legitimate. Without the protection of a VPN, your ISP or internet service provider is able to access all of your data and see when, where, and how you browse the internet. This data can be bought and sold to advertisers, which could make your data prone to a breach. A VPN hides your IP address from your own ISP. Moreover, VPNs in a similar way can protect your data from applications and programs having access to it. Facebook sold your data in 2010 and you are still not using a VPN?
How Can a VPN Help With Post-Production?
One solution is using SurfShark in partner with a cloud-based post-production server. In this way, VPNs form an encrypted pathway that allows editors to connect to the platform in a safe and secure way.
This is especially helpful for content creators working in teams on projects. Now you no longer have to worry about your content files being unsecure and you have remote access.
VPNs are very user-friendly and easy to use. The installation process is quick on all devices and with the click of button, you are protected from the majority of hackers and data breaches. It is important to consider that it is worth your money and time to invest in a well-established VPN service. Speaking from personal experience, most “free” VPN do not work well and may sell user data or run ads that could be infected with malware. If you are serious about your data privacy, investing in a paid VPN is the best option.
Lastly, you must not rely solely on VPNs to protect your identity and data. Moreover, do not use a VPN as an anonymity solution. You can very well decrease your anonymity by using VPN in combination with Tor.
