Articles by Sam Dawson, VPN and cybersecurity expert

Sam Dawson is a cybersecurity expert who has over four years of experience reviewing security-related software products. He focuses his writing on VPNs and security, previously writing for ProPrivacy before freelancing for Future PLC's brands, including TechRadar. Between running a penetration testing company and finishing a PhD focusing on speculative execution attacks at the University of Kent, he still somehow finds the time to keep an eye on how technology is impacting current affairs.

Articles by: Sam Dawson

Illustration of a VPN running on a mobile phone

Top five myths and misconceptions about using a VPN

By Sam Dawson published 11 July 24

There's a lot of misinformation about VPNs out there – so let's clear it up. Here's the truth behind today's top VPN myths.

Hand drawn doodles and textures depicting mass surveillance and thin line between privacy and security

Why aren't more VPNs rotating IP addresses?

By Sam Dawson published 10 July 24

Rotating IP addresses can boost your online anonymity and prevent tracking – here's everything you need to know.

Proton VPN versus ExpressVPN on a blue background

ExpressVPN vs Proton VPN – which is better?

By Sam Dawson published 4 July 24

Two of the biggest names in the VPN industry go head-to-head as we compare them both side-by-side.

Surfshark and CyberGhost logos on coloured background

Surfshark vs CyberGhost - which VPN is better in 2024?

By Sam Dawson published 2 July 24

Two privacy titans, but which is superior in 2024?

Digital umbrella protecting against cyberthreats

VPN vs Firewall

By Sam Dawson published 7 June 24

Which is better? VPNs and firewalls both protect your internet connection from digital nasties, but which one is better? Here's everything you need to know.

What is a torrent?

By Sam Dawson last updated 7 June 24

What is a static IP?

By Sam Dawson last updated 6 June 24

Proxy vs VPN: What are the differences?

By Sam Dawson last updated 6 June 24

Spot the difference Two web security tools, two different use cases. Here's everything you need to know about how they differ.

Amnezia VPN review

By Sam Dawson published 31 May 24

What is the dark web?

By Sam Dawson last updated 31 May 24

The dark web is frequently in the news, but this article explains what it actually is.

A laptop with a red screen with a white skull on it with the message: "RANSOMWARE. All your files are encrypted."

5 steps to take if your business gets hacked

By Sam Dawson published 12 May 24

Help mitigate the impact of a cyber attack with these tips

AdBlock VPN review

By Sam Dawson last updated 18 April 24

Updated Does this VPN live up to its ad-blocking reputation? We take a look in our AdBlock VPN review 2026.

5 tips from a hacker written next to the photo of a hacker

5 tips from a hacker to keep you safe online

By Sam Dawson published 16 April 24

Tips from the experts Get security advice from a real pen-tester, and see what steps I take to protect myself from other hackers. Boost your online safety with these 5 tips.

Flow VPN review

By Sam Dawson last updated 20 March 24

Updated An insecure VPN plus a gimmicky AI chatbot adds up to a package that should be avoided at all costs

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