Tips On How To Keep Safe On The Internet Without A Vpn

Have you ever wondered if a VPN really does much for your privacy and security when you are online? VPNs have always been our go-to means to mask our online identity and help us have access to geo-restricted content.

But history has proven to us that VPNs are not always a silver bullet for privacy and digital security and because running a VPN requires money, VPN providers will also ask free service customers to consent to other ways of making money, which may include tracking and selling their private data.

This entails people looking for other avenues to stay safe online. In this guide, we will look through over 10 ways to practice digital hygiene and keep safe without having to use a VPN.

But First, Let’s Look at How Your Devices Connect to the Internet

The thing is most VPN providers market their premium service as an arsenal of ammunition that helps with online security and privacy and always comes out as the only solution you will need. Looking at the fundamentals of how your gadgets connect to the Internet might be helpful in demystifying such claims and help you make an informed decision before spending on a premium VPN.

You see, when your computer or phone connects to the internet, it sends packets tagged with a source and destination IP address. It traverses a series of Internet Service Providers(ISPs) to reach its final destination. Anything logging traffic in between(WireSharks) can see your source IP address, which can be geolocated to within a few blocks of your home. Your IP is shared by a million other people, so it’s only an approximate location, not where you sleep at night.

With a VPN, the original packets get encrypted and wrapped in another IP header with the VPN server as the destination address. The VPN server will unwrap the packet and forward it through its own ISP, using its own IP address as the source.

Devices sitting before the VPN server can see your IP but not the destination. Meanwhile, devices sitting after the VPN server can see the destination but not the source. The zones within the network path are now partitioned.

Focusing on just the IP header is just like focusing on the tip of an iceberg. When you look at the network packet, metadata is spread across all the OSI model layers. Depending on the vantage point of an observer in your network path, there is different visibility into your packets. And that, in a nutshell, is the primary reason why you can’t trust a VPN to protect your online identity.

Tips on How to Keep Safe on the Internet Without a VPN - 1

Every piece of software you install, be it software or an app or plugin, can potentially be malicious and surveil your data and activity before it leaves your device.

On the local network, there is layer 2 addressing information that lets tech companies identify your location without an IP address through WiFi or Bluetooth positioning. Looking at proximity and signal strength to nearby devices with known geolocations like your friend’s phone, smartwatch, or wireless access point can help pinpoint your device too.

Your local ISP probably knows you are using a VPN based on the IP header alone. Just like Tor exit nodes, there are a fixed number of VPN addresses out there to track on a watchlist. The VPN company and their ISP are privileged to see the whole packet’s metadata and can fingerprint your device type with the IP, TCP, and TLS headers. The VPN can claim not to log this stuff, but you can bet the cloud providers and ISPs servicing it are. The server you are going to can also tell you are on a VPN since the MTU size, or max transmissible unit on the packet is going to be smaller than usual since you are piling one packet inside of another.

Watchlists and this kind of fingerprinting can help sites like banks flag any VPN connections and deny you service.

Use Cases of a VPN

So you know, you might be wondering what the use cases of a VPN are, or should I even try to mask my IP address? First, you have to gauge your level of threat. Is it cybercrime, big tech, or your government? Understanding your level of threat helps tailor your level of paranoia accordingly, so it’s not over or underweight.

There are cases where you masked your IP address and this includes but is not limited to;

Cirmuventiing IP blocks to watch Netflix and geo-restricted content.
Getting around national firewalls, when certain websites or apps are blocked in your country.
Bypassing downloads limits
Performing offensive security assessments
Conducting OSINT and research

For most people, practicing digital hygiene and cleaning up your online identity isn’t that complicated. Here are tips you can use to keep safe on the internet without having to use a VPN:

Use a unique password for every site.
Use a unique email for every site.
Use hardware security tokens for 2-factor authentication.
Use random answers for recovery questions.
Go through all your privacy settings on all your accounts. Sanitize your social media.
Use virtual machines and multiple phones for different kinds of activity.
Don’t click links or scan QR codes without first analyzing them.
Set up a commercial address so you don’t receive it at home.
Keep apps to a minimum and avoid pirated software.
Use a host-based firewall to alert on outbound connections that you need to manually verify for every app.
If you are traveling and tempted by public WiFI, just bring your own internet through portable hotspots or tether off your phone.

None of these options involve using a VPN, yet they do far more for your security and privacy overall. Share with us in the comment section your thoughts and opinions on how you keep safe on the internet. Is there anything special you do that we missed?

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

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But First, Let’s Look at How Your Devices Connect to the Internet#

Use Cases of a VPN#

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers#

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series#

But First, Let’s Look at How Your Devices Connect to the Internet

Use Cases of a VPN

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series