Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET

Whether you've upgraded to the latest iPhone 17 or you are using an older model, it's not enough to rely on your handset's default security protections. Apple's security is robust, and iOS tends to have fewer issues than Android, as it is a far more closed ecosystem. However, there's no virtual private network (VPN) , which addresses the security issues that come with connecting to the internet, whether you're at home or in your local coffee shop. The moment your device connects to an internet hotspot, you are at risk of your online communications and activities being exposed or your data being collected and sold.

This is where a VPN comes in. They encrypt your online traffic, protecting your data from digital eavesdroppers, marketers, and third parties. In addition, if you want to stream content that isn't available in your area, a VPN can unlock access to different streaming libraries worldwide, making VPNs a great choice for streaming on mobile devices.…