Free VPN app
Urban VPN is a security application developed by Urban Cyber Security Inc. It is a virtual personal network (VPN) that lets you see an improvement to your internet speed and online security. Downloading and using it is completely free, thanks to its peer-to-peer structure.
Urban VPN is easy to use and does not require an account. It also offers 81 servers and can even unblock US Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. However, since its P2P, all users share the processing power. With this, anonymity and safety are not guaranteed, unlike apps that use AES 256-encryption, such as ExpressVPN.
What can you expect from the app?
Urban VPN is about as basic as a free VPN can be. Getting around the app is easy. Users need only to choose the server to connect or disconnect. There are 81 available servers that you can connect to in order to get a better internet speed. The app has the capability to unblock restrictions for US Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. With this, you can stream geo-restricted content.
Performance-wise, Urban VPN is decent and offers unlimited bandwidth. The improvement in the browsing speed is noticeable, although some sites take longer to load. However, security-wise, the app's lagging: It uses a P2P structure, meaning all users share the processing power. Additionally, it uses a Hola-type system, where, once connected, your traffic is routed through other user's systems. The app also collects your information to provide the service.
Getting started with the app also proved to be a challenge. Sure it does not require an account, but downloading alone is a challenge. The installer often fails as it is difficult to verify the digital signature for the app's adapter. Even worse, there is no live support or chat option available. There is not even an email address dedicated to getting general help.
Is it worth it?
Based on its description, using Urban VPN sounds great. The app promises free, unlimited bandwidth and the ability to unblock US Netflix. However, all of that comes with security risks. The app is funded by ads and comes with a suspicious privacy policy. It also lacks details on encryption and information collection. Worse, it does not have any support available. Overall, this is a service that you should not use.
