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Virtual private networks (VPNs) have become all the rage in recent years. According to the Global Web Index, at least 26% of global internet users utilize VPN services to access the web. Today, more people worry about their data security than ever before. The internet is no longer a safe haven for consumers to use as they please – most websites have advanced tracking tools that collect deeply personal data and sell it to third-party firms.
Apart from preventing data breaches, there are several reasons why subscribing to a VPN service is a good idea. For instance, you can conveniently hide your online presence and avoid getting entangled in identity theft. It’s easy to gain control over your personal information if you utilize a VPN every time you go online. However, it’s important to choose your VPN provider carefully to avoid getting a raw deal.
There’s a new trend making rounds in the VPN niche. Novice VPN companies are selling lifetime subscription plans at ridiculously cheap prices in a bid to attract more clients. You might be wondering: are lifetime VPN plans worth it? Well, the short answer is no. There are some inherent problems with lifetime subscriptions that you need to know about.
5 reasons you should avoid lifetime VPN subscriptions:
1. Poor and unreliable services
Majority of subscriber-based service providers regard customer retention to be a crucial component of their business model. They must keep on reinventing themselves and upgrading their subscription plans if they truly desire to grow their client base. However, VPN companies that provide lifetime plans have no need for customer retention. They operate a hook, line and sinker type of operation. First, they hook potential VPN customers with their seemingly attractive lifetime packages at appealingly low rates. Next, they draw them in with cool features, quick speeds and exceptional customer service. As soon as the clients subscribe to their lifetime VPN plans, the bubble bursts. Servers become bogged down because of the large number of users, causing speeds to slow down significantly. Customer service becomes virtually non-existent. In reality, you never get your money’s worth.
2. You’ll be stuck with obsolete technology
Lifetime VPN subscriptions might seem appealing, but companies that offer such plans rarely upgrade their systems. You want a VPN that can constantly develop new security protocols and implement cutting-edge technologies. In addition, crucial features such as speed and reliability should be a must-have when purchasing a VPN service. Companies that offer lifetime plans don’t feel the need to invest in getting more servers or upgrading their systems. They have no incentive to make you pleased after you’ve paid them for a lifetime service.
3. Lifetime VPN subscriptions don’t last forever
Let’s say you’ve come across a VPN provider that offers an insanely cheap lifetime plan. Most people would opt to buy that package without even thinking twice. However, it’s important to first ask yourself: what do they mean by “lifetime”? When VPN firms use this term, they’re often referring to their own lifetime – not the subscriber’s. Some VPN service providers open shop today, provide low-priced lifetime packages and get rich overnight after thousands of individuals buy their enticingly cheap subscription. When they’ve made enough money scamming unsuspecting people, these companies shut their doors and open their business using a different company name. It’s a vicious cycle that always leaves consumers feeling frustrated.
4. Lifetime VPN plans operate an unrealistic business model
Providing VPN services isn’t cheap. You need to buy servers, hire programmers and employ advanced security protocols, all of which costs a few thousand dollars per month. Lifetime VPNs need to constantly grow their subscriber base for them to make money. When customers stop flowing in, they’re left with two options: losing profits or cramming their current subscribers onto a few servers. The first choice is highly unsustainable, so these companies always opt for the second option. This causes users to experience more downtimes and low browsing speeds, which drastically reduces customer satisfaction levels. Sadly, lifetime VPN plans are unrealistic in nature and only end up creating a negative brand image for the company.
They have Ponzi-like characteristics
Ponzi schemes are deceitful scam businesses that promise investors high profit margins with little to no risk. It’s quite easy to get attracted by their “get rich quick” maxim. VPN companies that offer lifetime plans often exhibit features that are strikingly similar to those of Ponzi schemes. For instance, they provide amazing deals that always seem too good to be true. These firms also require first-time customers to pay upfront for the service. When clients finally stop streaming in, the entire business dies abruptly. Watch out for these red flags when choosing your next VPN provider.
Subscribing to a lifetime VPN service is just not a good idea. You’re better off safe than sorry.