Why You Need a VPN and How It Can Benefit You

In today’s digital age, securing your online presence is more important than ever. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) offers an essential layer of security, privacy, and accessibility, especially in a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving.

This article has been developed by Gordon Yang, Technology Product Manager at insurance.com.au.

Why exactly do you need a VPN, and how can it benefit you?

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, helping protect your data from hackers, your internet provider, and other people nearby. This is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, or hotels, where your data is more vulnerable to theft. If you’ve ever joined a “free wifi” connection, you’re at risk of being tracked or hacked!

With a VPN, your information stays private, providing peace of mind that your personal details and browsing history are protected. This allows for greater privacy, as well as greater freedom for those who wish to access blocked or region-bound content. (Isn’t it frustrating when you want to continue watching your show on Netflix but it’s only available in your home country!)

Travelling Overseas?

You can use a VPN to securely access Australian websites like insurance.com.au, ensuring you can access your policy documents, view your certificates, and even renew your policy while abroad.

This is especially important around renewal time. If you're overseas, you might be unable to renew your Professional Indemnity policy without a VPN. Letting your policy lapse could leave you exposed if a claim arises during that period.

If you hold a Professional Indemnity insurance policy, it's important to note they are written on a “claims made” basis. This means any claim arising from facts and circumstances reasonably known to you before the start of the policy period will not be covered. This applies even if the non-disclosure was unintentional. For example, if your policy lapsed because you were unable to renew while overseas, you would not be covered for any issues that arose between the date the policy lapsed and renewal. Having continuity of coverage is essential with Professional Indemnity policies.

How to Use a VPN

Using a VPN is simple and can be done in just a few steps:

Choose a VPN Provider
There are many VPN services available, both free and paid. Some of the most popular options include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost. Select a provider that suits your needs in terms of privacy features, speed, and pricing.

Download and Install the VPN App
Once you’ve chosen a provider, download the VPN app for your device. Most VPN services are available on computers, smartphones, and tablets, making it easy to stay protected on all your devices.

Connect to a Server
Open the VPN app, sign in, and select a server location (for example, a server in your home country if you’re traveling abroad). Once connected, your internet connection will be secured, and your online activity will be encrypted. You should now be able to access the insurance.com.au website as well.

A VPN is an essential tool for anyone who values security, privacy, and online freedom. Whether you’re protecting your data on public Wi-Fi, accessing restricted content, or ensuring a smooth insurance renewal while traveling, a VPN is a must-have for today’s internet users.

Questions about your upcoming renewal?

Contact our Client Service Team on 1300 468 730 or email support@insurance.com.au.

The article represents the views and opinions of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of insurance.com.au Pty Ltd ABN 27 163 909 073, an Authorised Representative (AR Number 443422) of Insurance House Pty Ltd ABN 33 006 500 072 AFS Licence 240954. A copy of insurance.com.au’s FSG is available here.

The information is current at the time of publication. While every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information, insurance.com.au, its officers, representatives, employees and agents disclaim all liability (except for any liability which by law cannot be excluded), for any error, inaccuracy in, or omission from the information contained in this material for any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on the information.

The professional indemnity policy distributed through insurance.com.au is administered by Professional Underwriting Pty Ltd (ProRisk) ABN 80 103 953 073 AFSL 308076.

Any advice provided is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any decision based on the information, you should consider whether it is appropriate to your particular circumstances. You should read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) & Financial Services Guide (FSG) and Target Market Determination (TMD) before making any decision to acquire a financial product.