Temporary restrictions on the social network TikTok, as well as the desire to access blocked content, have led to a significant increase in VPN downloads in Albania. For many users, activating a VPN has become a quick way to “bypass” online barriers.
However, in the Albanian context, where internet providers do not apply strict censorship and where most online services are freely accessible, the daily use of a VPN often turns out to be unnecessary. Asked by journalists, technology experts from One Albania note that many users activate a VPN without having a concrete technical reason.

What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates an encrypted connection between your device and another server, usually located abroad. This process masks your IP address and makes online traffic appear as if it is coming from another country.

There are dozens of applications on the market offering VPN services, from free options to paid ones that promise high security standards. A study by the international platform Security.org found that about 30% of users choose free versions. The problem is that, in the absence of a subscription fee, the source of profit for free VPN platforms often becomes the user himself—his data, online movement, browsing habits, and more.

Slower Internet in a market where operators invest in speed

Operators in Albania have invested heavily in recent years to increase the capacity and speed of fixed and mobile internet. However, when a VPN is activated, traffic is routed through an intermediary server abroad before reaching its destination. This means that even if a user has a high?speed package, network performance can decrease significantly.

“VPN increases the path that data travels and automatically reduces the speed. Users complain about slow internet, while the cause is the active VPN,” emphasize technology experts from One Albania.

Delays in video communication or gaming

In Albania, video communication for work, studies, or family interactions has become routine. Online gaming is also widespread, especially among young people. Activating a VPN increases ping due to the additional distance data must travel. This results in interruptions in audio and video, delayed responses during online games, and issues with live broadcasts.

Problems with banking services and other applications

Banks in Albania have strengthened security mechanisms to prevent online fraud. If a customer logs in from an IP address that appears to be abroad, the system may classify this as suspicious activity. Consequently, users may be required to undergo additional verification steps or may temporarily lose access to their accounts.
Beyond banking, some applications that require an Albanian IP, such as national television platforms or state digital services, may not function properly when a VPN is active.

The risks of VPNs in the Albanian market

A large portion of users in Albania choose free VPN versions. Experts warn that these applications are often financed by collecting and selling user data. Ironically, the tool meant to enhance online privacy may instead create greater exposure of personal information. In some cases, free VPNs may even introduce malware onto users’ devices.

Quality VPNs are paid services, billed monthly or annually. For most Albanian households that use the internet for browsing, social media, or common online services, this additional cost is not justified. Furthermore, VPNs add a layer of technical complexity that makes it harder for operators to diagnose issues in case of customer complaints, since traffic does not follow the standard network path.

In Albania, where the internet is largely accessible and without significant restrictions, the constant use of a VPN becomes a compromise rather than a solution for data security.