What every parent should know about VPN’s

Understanding Tech

VPN Parents Guide – What Every Parent Should Know About VPNs

Written by a family tech consultant. Calm, practical steps with UK examples. No jargon or panic.

Short answer: A VPN encrypts traffic and can hide location. Useful on public Wi-Fi; risky if used to bypass family or school boundaries.

What a VPN Actually Does

A Virtual Private Network creates an encrypted “tunnel” between a device and a VPN server. To websites, the device appears to be at the server’s location. This protects logins on untrusted Wi-Fi but can also hide browsing from local filters.

Why Teens Use VPNs

Bypass school/home filters to reach blocked apps or games.
Access region-locked content (streaming, videos, game servers).
Avoid feeling watched by adults or apps — even if nothing wrong is happening.
Follow influencer advice promising “invisibility.”

When VPNs Are Useful (and Safe)

Encrypt personal data on hotel, café or airport Wi-Fi.
Protect logins when working or studying on shared networks.
Access work/school services that require private tunnels.

The concern isn’t the technology — it’s the secrecy or intent. Agree when VPNs are appropriate and when they undermine trust.

How to Tell If a VPN Is Installed

Look for a small key or lock icon near the Wi-Fi signal.
iPhone/iPad: Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → VPN.
Android: Settings → Network & Internet → VPN.
Check installed apps for names like Proton, Nord, or TurboVPN.

How to Talk About It Without Conflict

“I understand why privacy matters — but I also need to know you’re safe online. Let’s agree when a VPN is okay to use and when it’s not.”

Stay calm — curiosity isn’t wrongdoing.
Explain that VPNs can hide harmful or illegal content from filters.
Offer privacy-respecting alternatives like private browsing or guest Wi-Fi.

Setting Realistic Boundaries

Router controls: some routers block VPN traffic or alert when new devices connect.
Explain consequences: secret use breaks trust — come to us first.
Encourage transparency: if it seems necessary, review it together.
Review monthly: devices and apps change fast.

Privacy-Respecting VPN Options (for Parents)

We do not take affiliate payments. Prices are estimates; check retailers for current offers.

Free (Reputable)

ProtonVPN Free — strong privacy, limited locations.
Best for learning and occasional use.

Mid-range

Surfshark — £2–£3/mo (multi-device).
Simple app, unlimited connections.

Premium

NordVPN / ExpressVPN — £6–£9/mo.
Audited services with excellent performance.

If You Discover Hidden VPN Use

Don’t panic or confiscate devices. Ask why they wanted it. Curiosity is normal; secrecy signals a missing conversation. Reset expectations calmly.

Where to Get Help

At Understanding Tech, we’re parents first and tech people second. We help families feel calmer and more confident online.

Download the VPN Parents Guide (PDF)

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