Today, we’re living much of our lives in the digital space. We work, play, and engage with others through our screens. It’s astounding to stop and think about how much sensitive, personal data the average person has floating around in the digital landscape. Each of us needs a helper in protecting our online privacy and security. A top-performing VPN is how we can be protected. 

There are many different options to consider in the VPN industry. We’ve decided to take a comprehensive look at two of the leading VPN providers in Australia – NordVPN vs PureVPN.

In this comparison, we serve as an independent voice and have delved into every detail, intricacy, strength, and weakness of these two top VPN providers. Our goal has been to provide unbiased insights that provide you with the details needed to make the most informed decision to protect your privacy online.

TL;DR

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• Both NordVPN and PureVPN are two leading VPN providers in Australia, each excelling in its own way. 
• NordVPN’s strong features are speed, exceptional streaming capabilities, and advanced security and privacy features, including Tor over VPN, dark web monitoring, and double VPN protection. 
• PureVPN offers one of the largest global server networks, paired with a more economical pricing structure. 
• Where do these two VPN powerhouses meet in the middle? They share robust encryption, an intuitive user interface, strict no-log policies, and broad compatibility across devices and platforms. 
• PureVPN offers an interface that is clean and straightforward, making it a good fit for beginners. NordVPN is user-friendly, but with more features that require a learning curve. 
• Both NordVPN and PureVPN will appeal to streaming enthusiasts, offering a combination of fast speed, privacy, and access to geo-restricted content. 
• Privacy Australia is committed to offering unbiased, transparent comparisons so that VPN consumers can make the most informed decisions.
  

Comparing Options: NordVPN vs PureVPN

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As experts in the field of digital privacy, we understand what’s most important to consumers looking to invest in a VPN. 

Privacy and security are paramount and make the top of our list of criteria. Following those are speed, server network size and location, user experience and interface design, pricing, and customer support. 

In this comparison of NordVPN vs PureVPN Australia, we performed a deep-level, unbiased, detailed analysis of each VPN in these key areas. Here is how they measured up.

Criteria Breakdown

When it’s time to choose a VPN, it’s important to look at all the options and consider which is best aligned with your needs. 

This involves considering a comprehensive set of criteria that include key aspects of the service. We know that there are many VPN users out there who don’t have the time to comprehensively look at every single provider, which is why we’ve done it for you. 

In our comparison of NordVPN vs PureVPN Australia, we’ve assessed all the key areas of performance that matter most to VPN users. 

Speed and Performance: Speed is critical. A VPN that is sluggish and doesn’t meet your needs is essentially useless. We’ve put NordVPN and PureVPN through rigorous testing, accessing their connection speeds across multiple server locations. 

Streaming and Performance: When making this comparison, we took into consideration the many different ways people spend their time online. Streaming and torrenting capabilities are often a make-or-break feature when choosing a VPN. And so is the ability to bypass geo-restrictions so you never lose access to your favourite streaming platforms. 

Security and Privacy: There are many different convenience features that can be added to a VPN, but when it comes down to it, security and privacy are priority number one. We’ll examine how PureVPN vs NordVPN Australia measures up in this area. 

Server Network: Both NordVPN and PureVPN offer global server networks. We’ve compared the number of servers, locations, and reliability. 

User Friendliness and Compatibility: A great VPN isn’t overly complicated, and fits in seamlessly across all devices. A user-friendly interface and compatibility with multiple devices and operating systems are good indicators of a positive user experience. 

Customer Support: If you’ve spent time looking at customer reviews of VPNs, you’ve likely noticed that customer support is a sore spot for many. When a VPN service has an overall poor rating, the level of customer support is often a major factor. 

In comparing these two Australian VPN services, we looked at how accessible customer support is, along with their track records for responsiveness and issue resolution. 

Pricing: The most expensive isn’t always the best, and the cheapest isn’t always the greatest deal. What matters is the value gained for the price paid. We considered how NordVPN and PureVPN Australia compare to their competitors, and how their pricing structure aligns with the features each offers.

NordVPN

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What NordVPN is Best Known For

NordVPN Australia is among the most reputable VPN providers and has been recognized as one of the most knowledgeable VPNs by renowned tech and digital security experts. NordVPN is known for its robust encryption protocols and lightning-fast speeds that outpace other leading VPNs. 

NordVPN also has one of the most extensive global server networks. We’ve placed NordVPN up against multiple VPN providers and they almost always consistently come out on top as having the largest server network. 

As you’ll see in this comparison of NordVPN vs PureVPN Australia, it actually has the slightly smaller of the two networks. This is a rare change of events, but it doesn’t diminish the impressiveness of NordVPN’s coverage. 

In addition to the size of the NordVPN network, features like user-friendly applications, Tor over VPN, double VPN, and strict no-log policies are just a few of the reasons that this is one of the most trusted VPNs that users return to time and again. 

Description

NordVPN Australia is a cybersecurity powerhouse with a user base of 14 million people worldwide. With more than 6,400 servers across the globe, more than 190 of which are in Australia, NordVPN is a trusted leader in the VPN space. 

With a vast global network that ensures security and privacy, you are covered no matter where in the world you are. This includes access to geo-restricted content around the world. 

At the foundation of NordVPN’s success is its unrelenting priority to security and privacy. In the VPN world, this is what it’s all about. This VPN offers military-grade encryption and advanced protocols, including NordLynx, to protect user data from all levels of attacks and vulnerabilities. NordVPN offers an intuitive interface and broad accessibility with compatibility across multiple devices and platforms. It’s secure, fast, and one of the leading VPNs in Australia. Let’s look closer at NordVPN vs PureVPN to determine if it’s the best fit for your digital privacy needs.

Features

NordVPN Australia offers a comprehensive set of privacy and security features that are tailored to the diverse needs of its users. At the centre of NordVPN is the NordLynx protocol. 

As a WireGuard-based protocol, NordLynx delivers the blazing-fast speed that NordVPN is known for. This combined with OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols means that users also benefit from robust privacy and flexibility. 

Adding to NordVPN’s strong emphasis on security is Threat Protection Pro. This is an advanced cyber-threat protection feature that scans every file for malware, blocks unwanted ads, and protects your devices from web trackers. 

Threat Protection Pro takes user security one step further by utilising AI phishing protection to proactively prevent users from entering risky sites. 

Rounding out NordVPN’s top security features are its Dark Web Monitor that continually scours the dark web, alerting users of compromised accounts and information, along with their zero-log policy, dedicated IP, and Tor over VPN feature. Additionally, VPN users are offered a higher level of flexibility and control with split tunnelling, allowing them to selectively route traffic through the VPN.

Pros

Blazing Fast Speeds Thanks to NordLynx Protocol 

This is a top choice for anyone looking for a combination of uncompromised speed and quality in a VPN. 

Extensive Global Network of Servers 

NordVPN offers servers in 111 countries. In Australia, servers are located in Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney. 

Advanced Security Features 

Dark web monitoring, Tor over VPN, double VPN, and the NordLynx protocol combine to offer top-tier protection against online threats and vulnerabilities. 

Strict No-Logs Policy 

NordVPN’s no-log policy is verified by frequent, independently run audits. 

Threat Protection Pro 

This feature is the ultimate in malware protection and ad blocking, both for protection and to offer a more enjoyable and seamless user experience. 

Split Tunnelling 

NordVPN Australia users are offered granular control over their traffic routing with the split tunnelling feature. Choosing which traffic goes through the VPN offers more flexibility and customization. 

Cons

Price 

NordVPN Australia isn’t the most expensive VPN on the market, but those who are budget-minded will notice that this service is priced slightly higher than some of its competitors. 

Overwhelming for Beginners 

NordVPN’s interface is simple and intuitive, but it’s also rich in features that can feel overwhelming for beginners. Advanced users, or those familiar with VPN capabilities, will find NordVPN easy to use. 

No Unlimited Connections 

There are a few VPN providers that offer unlimited simultaneous connections. This isn’t the case with NordVPN. It currently offers up to ten simultaneous connections, which is an improvement over its previous offering of six.

Criteria Evaluation for NordVPN

Speed 5/5

NordVPN claims blazing-fast speeds. We tested their server network across multiple locations to assess how it measures up against these claims. 

What we found was minimal speed loss, effortless streaming, torrenting, and ease of connection. Combined with the NordLynx protocol, this makes NordVPN Australia a top player for speed without compromising security.

Streaming and Torrenting 5/5

Streaming and torrenting is a criteria area where NordVPN continually exceeds expectations. Users can access geo-restricted content from most locations where NordVPN is available, including the most popular streaming platforms, including Hulu, Netflix, and BBC iPlayer. 

NordVPN is also a standout for torrenting capabilities, with dedicated P2P players and top-level encryption for the highest level of efficiency and online security.

Security and Privacy 5/5

This criterion is where a VPN needs to overperform, which is exactly what NordVPN does. The NordLynx protocol, military encryption, no-log policy, double VPN, and Tor over VPN are all features that earn it a full 5 out of 5 stars. 

Server Locations 4/5

6,400+ servers in 111 countries is impressive and NordVPN’s network far outreaches many of its competitors. Strategic global server locations provide reliable connections around the world, making it a good choice for frequent travellers. 

User-friendliness and Compatibility 4/5

NordVPN’s interface is streamlined and overall intuitive to use. In fact, its user-friendliness is one of the most often cited features of why this VPN stands out among others. 

We can’t disagree with this. However, because NordVPN is so feature-rich (which is a good thing), it can require a bit of a learning curve for beginners. 

As far as compatibility is concerned, NordVPN Australia earns top marks and supports most operating systems. 

Customer Support 5/5

NordVPN checks off all the boxes for exceptional customer support. They offer multiple avenues of contact, including email and live chat that are available 24 hours a day. 

We also give NordVPN accolades for its knowledgeable and helpful customer support team. It’s obvious that they prioritise customer care. 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

NordVPN has been around long enough to have built up a strong reputation among a range of VPN users from beginners to experts. Across the spectrum of experience, NordVPN has earned praise from the overwhelming majority of community members and tech experts. 

Here’s an example of a review that highlights NordVPN’s appeal to beginners. 

“Nord VPN for me works well, it’s easy to use and it’s not so expensive. It allows to unblock restricted games and access locked servers, which is great. I would definitely recommend it for streaming and torrenting and for those people who do not know much about security, but want to keep their data safe.” – User review from VPN Mentor 

From the tech and digital security experts, praise centres on the broad range of advanced security features, plus the extra bells and whistles that make this one of the best VPNs for the overall user experience.

Pricing

We consider NordVPN’s pricing structure to be middle of the road. While it offers robust features and privacy, it also comes with a premium price tag. That said, you get what you pay for with NordVPN Australia, and it’s a much better value if you’re able to commit to a 2-year subscription period. 

To highlight the pricing difference between the monthly plan and a 2-year subscription, let’s take a look at the Basic package. 

When paying month to month, users will pay $12.99 per month. By paying for a 2-year subscription at once, the cost is slashed to only $3.99 per month. 

NordVPN Australia also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing new users with ample opportunity to determine if this VPN fits their needs. 

Additionally, NordVPN frequently offers enticing discounts and promotions, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, users can try out the service risk-free and ensure it meets their expectations before committing. You can also save money with these NordVPN coupons.

Where to Find NordVPN

All three tiers of NordVPN – Basic, Plus, and Ultimate can be purchased directly from the NordVPN website. This is the best spot to find deals and learn more about the comprehensive benefits offered. 

PureVPN

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What PureVPN is Best Known For

If there’s a VPN provider in Australia that can give NordVPN a run for its money, it’s PureVPN. When we compared PureVPN vs NordVPN, it became clear that PureVPN’s global server network is one of the most expansive in existence. Its network spans more than 80 locations in 71 countries. The number of active servers tops more than 6,500. 

In Australia, PureVPN offers more than 400 servers located in 4 major cities. 

In addition to the size of its global network, PureVPN is known for being budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those who want good security without paying premium pricing. 

Description

PureVPN was launched in 2007 as an independent startup and has grown to include a user base of more than 3 million subscribers worldwide. Their mission, in a nutshell, is to make safe, secure, and private online experiences something that is accessible to everyone. 

While PureVPN’s global network is larger than NordVPN’s, they are compatible in other ways. They both offer access to geo-restricted content, military-grade encryption, and strict no-log policies. PureVPN Australia offers robust privacy features, and in this comparison, we’ll look closer at how they actually perform.

Features

PureVPN Australia is designed with security and privacy features that are robust and capable of protecting your entire online experience. They’ve integrated the WireGuard protocol, which has elevated what this VPN offers in terms of speed and security. 

In addition to WireGuard, PureVPN offers other protocols to ensure there is seamless compatibility across various platforms. 

Another key feature that deserves mention is the Smart Server Selection. This is an algorithm that automatically chooses the fastest server that’s available to you. Along with this, PureVPN offers speeds of up to 20Gbps. 

PureVPN also excels at streaming and torrenting. When streaming, PureVPN users benefit from access to geo-restricted content on the most popular streaming platforms, even in geographical locations with heavy censorship. 

Other features like split tunnelling and a dedicated IP add-on feature for a consistent online identity, allow more control over your online experience. 

Overall, many features between PureVPN and NordVPN Australia are similar, making it a tight comparison between the two. 

Pros

Pricing

PureVPN’s pricing plans are a major point of attraction, at least with their 2-year subscription plan. Going month to month, their pricing structure is similar to NordVPN but with a 2-year commitment, it averages out to a little over $2 per month. 

Global Network 

PureVPN ranks in the top three of global VPN networks. In comparison to NordVPN, it isn’t just the number of servers, but also the number of countries that they’re located in that places PureVPN Australia on top. 

User-Friendly Interface 

We appreciate PureVPN’s simplified user interface. They offer dedicated streaming modes, which are ideal for streaming enthusiasts who might otherwise not be overly interested in the robust privacy features. 

This places PureVPN as an option that’s suitable for beginners, as well as those with more advanced VPN experience. 

Split Tunnelling 

In our opinion, a VPN in today’s market needs to offer split tunnelling. It has become an essential feature that VPN users expect. PureVPN prioritises user control by offering this feature within its standard lineup. 

Dedicated IP

There are multiple reasons why someone may desire a dedicated IP even with a VPN. With PureVPN, a dedicated IP is available as an add-on feature for an additional charge.

Cons

Past Privacy Issues 

In 2017, PureVPN received some bad press after cooperating with an FBI investigation in which they provided the agency with connection logs of an individual involved in suspected criminal activity. 

At the time, PureVPN boasted a no-logs policy, but the fine print stated that certain logs could be stored. 

In the time since the investigation, PureVPN has enforced a strict no-log policy and no longer stores any log information. If history were to repeat itself and a similar inquiry took place, PureVPN would be unable to comply. However, the incident has still left a mark on their reputation. 

Inconsistent Speed 

PureVPN reports the potential for extreme speed, but in reality, there have been some reported inconsistencies in speed based on certain server locations. 

Fewer Robust Security Features 

For the price, PureVPN offers adequate security features, but in a head-to-head comparison, NordVPN comes out ahead. 

Criteria Evaluation for PureVPN

Speed 3/5

We were really hoping that PureVPN would excel in this category considering its capabilities. Unfortunately, our testing revealed too many inconsistencies to give them more than a mediocre score in this area. Some servers performed at top speeds, but others were inconsistent and sluggish. 

Streaming and Torrenting 4/5

PureVPN’s dedicated streaming servers earn points in this category. This, combined with seamless access to geo-restricted content, makes this a good VPN for anyone who is primarily interested in streaming and torrenting. Some minor issues have been reported with unblocking certain platforms, but this seems to be a relatively infrequent issue. 

Security and Privacy 4/5

The fact that PureVPN provided logs to the FBI in 207 automatically puts it at a disadvantage among those who are looking for the most private and secure VPN option. However, since then, we’ve seen them adopt advanced encryption and features like leak protection and a kill switch that has worked to repair the VPN’s reputation. 

Server Locations 5/5

The expansive server network is one of the main features that PureVPN Australia is known for. They have a broad global presence and exceptional connection capabilities in Australia. PureVPN’s server coverage is considered one of the absolute best in the privacy industry. 

User-friendliness and Compatibility 5/5

We couldn’t find a single reason to take any points away from PureVPN in this category. Its interface is extremely clean and intuitive, making it easy to use for beginners. It also offers broad compatibility with most operating systems, including Linus. You can also use PureVPN seamlessly on any device.

Customer Support 5/5

PureVPN earns high marks for its commitment to providing a high level of customer support. They’re easy to contact with 24/7 live chat that is responsive and helpful, along with email support. 

They also have a responsive presence on just about every social media platform, which makes for an overall great user experience. 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

It’s difficult to look too far into community and expert reviews for PureVPN without coming across mention of its past privacy issues. Investing in a VPN for privacy, and being under the assumption that a no-log policy meant that zero logs would be stored, only to have that betrayed has stuck with many previous and current subscribers. 

They definitely took a hit with this event, however, it’s safe to say that they’ve done a decent job of turning it around and attempting to prove their trustworthiness to the global VPN customer base. 

Since the privacy issue with the FBI, PureVPN has built trust through transparency, committing to a zero-log policy, and participating in independent audits. 

With all of this in mind, here are a few comments from the community and experts. 

“PureVPN is a rock solid performer for IPTV streaming and torrenting, with servers in many countries. It successfully enabled me to overcome server blocking and throttling by my local ISP. And with my torrenting client tightly bound to PureVPN, downloading on my PC is no longer a problem. On my Android TV device, the split tunnelling feature enables me to use the VPN selectively for some apps and not others. I’m very happy – have just ended one five-year subscription, and have now signed up for another five years! Excellent value.” – Trustpilot reviewer

Although the FBI incident happened seven years ago, you can still see evidence of it in more current reviews. 

“I have been a client of VPN for several years and along the way had several problems. For me, the UK link is very important when I’m abroad. Unfortunately, the traffic often makes the link unstable, so I constantly have to switch servers. Purevpn are well aware of the issue, as I have reported it numerous times, BUT they do nothing to solve it. The latest issue I have is their “recommended” link, Portugal. Try as I may to get to Portugal, I keep landing in Washington DC, USA, home of the FBI !! Currently, the Portugal link is the one to avoid at all costs.” – Trustpilot Reviewer.

Overall, expert reviews tend to lean more positively toward PureVPN. Speed, reliable kill switch, and of course, the size of its network earn consistent praise. For another perspective, check out our full review of PureVPN.

Pricing

PureVPN offers three plan tiers – Standard, Plus, and Max. With each plan, you can choose a monthly, annual, 2-year subscription, or 5-year subscription plan. PureVPN’s budget-friendly pricing structure is one of the things it’s known for, so let’s take a closer look at how that breaks down. 

When comparing pricing PureVPN vs NordVPN, they’re similar when paying month to month. However, if you sign up for the 2-year subscription plan, the savings are huge. With this option, you’ll pay a little over $2 per month for the Standard plan, $3.33 for Plus, and $4.07 for Max. 

Oddly enough, there isn’t a cost incentive for signing up for the 5-year plan. You’ll pay the same average monthly price as the 2-year plan. 

PureVPN does offer a 31-day full money-back guarantee for new subscribers.

Where to Find PureVPN

You can learn more about PureVPN and purchase a plan directly from their website. Before signing up, make sure to visit the add-on features. This provides the opportunity to select additional options to enhance your online experience.

Alternative Options

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You trust your VPN to have your back and keep you secure when online, but there are so many different options, and it’s well established that not all VPNs are created equal. At Privacy Australia, we like to think of ourselves as your trusted friends in the cyber security space. 

Privacy Australia is an independent resource committed to evaluating privacy tools, providing the details necessary for making informed decisions, and offering our own, unbiased recommendations. 

Our approach utilised rigorous testing and evidence-based research methodologies to ensure our analysis is comprehensive, accurate, and helpful to the Australian VPN market and its needs. 

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN continually makes the list as a top competitor for both NordVPN and PureVPN Australia. What sets ExpressVPN apart is its extraordinarily large global server network, with a presence in 105 countries. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of NordVPN vs ExpressVPN with all the details. 

ExpressVPN can be a great option for those looking for blazing-fast speed and security but don’t have a large number of devices they need to simultaneously connect. Currently, ExpressVPN offers simultaneous connections for up to eight devices only. 

Surfshark

In contrast to ExpressVPN, we have Surfshark which offers unlimited simultaneous connections. Its security features are respectfully robust with the implementation of the WireGuard protocol, along with OpenVPN and IKEv2. 

CyberGhost VPN

CyberGhost VPN is an affordable option for those who are looking for advanced security features, robust streaming, and torrenting capabilities. CyberGhost VPN has servers located in 126 cities across 100 countries, including 20 dedicated IP locations. Australia offers server locations in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. 

CyberGhost offers one of the most generous money-back guarantees, offering new users up to 45 days to feel out if the VPN meets their needs. 

Hotspot Shield

For those who want an effective VPN without a lot of extra features for just one device, Hotspot Shield offers a free VPN option. Free VPNs can be misleading because they don’t always offer the privacy you expect and often come with ads and other elements that take away from the user experience. 

Hotspot Shield’s free version offers all the basics, minus streaming and gaming modes. If you’d like full access to the VPN’s features, including compatibility with more platforms, up to ten device connections, and its network of more than 125 server locations, the price is only $8/99 per month with an annual subscription. 

FAQs

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Is NordVPN better than PureVPN?

PureVPN and NordVPN Australia are two of the top competitors in the digital security space. When comparing them head to head, they both offer exceptional security, privacy, speed, and streaming capabilities. 

NordVPN offers some of the most advanced security features of all VPN providers, while PureVPN is a more economical choice with a simplified, clean user interface.

It’s important to consider your individual needs and priorities when choosing a VPN. In this case, either may be the best option depending on which features are most important to you.

Is PureVPN owned by NordVPN?

No, PureVPN and NordVPN are not owned by the same company. They are both separate, independent VPN providers. PureVPN is owned by GZ Systems Limited, while NordVPN is owned by Nord Security.

Can PureVPN unblock Netflix?

Yes, PureVPN offers unblocking capabilities with most streaming platforms, including Netflix. PureVPN users can access geo-restricted content, including Netflix libraries in the UK, US, and Canada. 

Does NordVPN keep logs?

NordVPN has a strict no-logs policy and is independently audited for transparency. NordVPN operates with a RAM-only server network, which guarantees that not a single piece of user data is stored on physical hard drives. 

Is PureVPN fast?

Overall, yes, we can say that PureVPN is fast. However, rigorous testing has shown us that inconsistencies with speed across multiple server locations aren’t uncommon. This can become a problem with data-intensive activities. If speed is a defining factor in your choice of a VPN, NordVPN is the better choice. 

Final Thoughts

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Today, spending time online without a VPN has become too risky. With each interaction, your privacy and security can be at risk. Top-performing VPNs, like NordVPN and PureVPN Australia, are the surest way to minimise these vulnerabilities. These are two major players in the VPN industry, each with a well-established reputation. 

What we found with our in-depth analysis is that each VPN provider offers a set of robust features designed to meet the needs of VPN users in Australia. 

• NordVPN Australia stands out for exceptional, consistent speed, reliable streaming capabilities, and advanced privacy features like Tor over VPN. 
• Then there’s PureVPN, one of the largest global VPN networks and a pricing structure that appeals to budget-minded VPN customers. 
• At the end of the day, the choice comes down to what you need, want, and expect from a VPN provider. 
• NordVPN offers robust features that appeal to those with more experience using VPNs. These features include exceptional streaming, security, and top-notch speed. 
• Travellers might prefer the extensive server network offered by PureVPN, and the fact that it’s a more economical option. Although speed is sometimes an issue here. 
• The best option is to take each provider up on their offer of a money-back guarantee and see which has earned your trust and meets your needs after 30 days. 

Whichever VPN you decide on, know that Privacy Australia is here to be your unbiased resource on all things privacy. We offer an in-depth analysis of VPN providers, along with other privacy tools. We believe knowledge is power, and this allows you to take control and protect yourself from vulnerabilities online.

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