Many people rely on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to keep their online activities secure, especially when managing finances, shopping, or staying in touch with loved ones.
VPNs are supposed to help protect your personal information by encrypting your internet connection, making it harder for hackers or others to track your activities.
However, not all VPN providers are created equal, so it’s important to choose one you can trust. This article highlights key security and privacy considerations for selecting a VPN, focusing on one major provider, Kape Technologies, and its connections to Israeli military intelligence.
Understanding VPNs and Their Importance
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates a secure tunnel for your internet traffic, hiding your online activities from your internet service provider, potential hackers, and (supposedly) even government surveillance. This type of service is especially crucial for those people handling sensitive tasks like online banking, cryptocurrency transactions, sharing personal information, or engaging in political dissent.
By routing your data through a VPN server, your real location and identity are masked, giving you peace of mind. However, this peace of mind is nothing more than a placebo in many cases.
Read our article about the inherent weaknesses in many VPNs.
Kape Technologies: A Major Player in VPNs with Ties to the Israeli Military
Kape Technologies is a leading company in the VPN industry, owning popular services like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Private Internet Access, and ZenMate.
These services are widely used and often recommended for their user-friendly interfaces and strong encryption. Kape also operates review sites like vpnMentor, which provide guidance on choosing VPNs.
However, there are aspects of Kape’s history that independent thinkers and political dissidents should be aware of to make informed decisions about Virtual Private Networks.
The Illusion of Choice: A Closer Look at Kape’s Background
Originally called Crossrider, Kape Technologies was once known for software that displayed unwanted ads, which raised concerns in the tech community. In 2018, the company rebranded and shifted its focus to online privacy, acquiring several well-known VPNs.
While Kape now promotes itself as a protector of digital privacy, its past and leadership connections warrant scrutiny. Kape is owned by Teddy Sagi, an Israeli billionaire with a history of fraud and ties to the Israeli military, including donations to support former soldiers.
Some of Kape’s key executives, such as former CEO Ido Erlichman and co-founder Koby Menachemi, have served in elite Israeli military units like Unit 8200 and Duvdevan, which specialize in intelligence and surveillance.
Additionally, Daniel Gericke, ExpressVPN’s former Chief Technology Officer (2019–2023), was linked to a controversial operation that involved hacking devices for the United Arab Emirates, raising questions about data privacy.
Why This Matters to You
When you use a VPN, you entrust the provider with sensitive data, such as your browsing history, financial transactions, or your political views. Kape’s connections to military intelligence and its past as an adware company raise SERIOUS concerns about whether your information is truly secure in its hands.
As an independent thinker whose views do not always align with official narratives or mainstream views, these factors should influence your trust in Kape’s services.
Tips for Choosing a Trustworthy VPN
To ensure your online privacy, consider these steps when selecting a VPN:
- Research the Provider’s History:
Look into the company’s background, ownership, and any past controversies. Independent reviews from sources not affiliated with the VPN provider can offer valuable insights. - Check for Transparency:
Choose a VPN with clear policies on data logging. A “no-logs” policy, independently audited, ensures the provider doesn’t store your activity. - Evaluate Jurisdiction:
The country where a VPN is based can affect its privacy policies. Companies in privacy-friendly countries, like Switzerland or Panama, may offer better protection than those in nations with heavy surveillance, like Israel or the UK. - Look for Independent Audits:
Reputable VPNs undergo third-party audits¹ to verify their security and privacy claims. Check if the provider has recent audit reports available. - Consider Alternatives:
While Kape’s VPNs like ExpressVPN and CyberGhost are popular, other providers, such as NordVPN or ProtonVPN, may have different ownership structures and fewer controversies.
Staying Safe Online
Maintaining online privacy is about safeguarding your financial security, your personal information, and your political and sociopolitical views.
While Kape Technologies’ VPNs may work well for many users, their connections to intelligence services and past business practices should give you pause for thought.
Before choosing a VPN, take time to research and compare options to find one that aligns with your need for trust and security. If you’re concerned about Kape’s background, explore other VPN providers with strong reputations for privacy.
For more information on VPNs and online safety, visit trusted resources like Privacy Guides, PCMag, or Wirecutter, which offer detailed guides tailored to non-technical users.
By staying informed, you can enjoy the internet with confidence, knowing your data is protected.
¹ Independent audits are carried out out by organizations such as PWC Cybersecurity.
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