ExpressVPN Launches New Tool For Data Protection
ExpressVPN, one of the best VPNs on the market, has unveiled a new tool called Identity Defender, to strengthen personal data security for its users. Identity Defender is currently only available to users in the US and offers a range of features to protect against identity theft and data misuse.
“With Identity Defender, we aim to provide users with a one-stop solution that not only helps them quickly determine if their information is at risk but also guides them through effective steps to address any issues,” says Lauren Hendry Parsons, Digital Privacy Advocate at ExpressVPN.
Identity Defender includes three core features: ID Alerts, ID Theft Insurance, and Data Removal.
ID Alerts scans the dark web for personal data such as emails, passwords, and social security numbers—risks that traditional internet searches cannot detect. If any sensitive data is found, the app will send you an alert to take action. The feature monitors the use of Social Security numbers, notifying users if their SSN is used for loans, payments, or employment.
Additionally, the service provides Change of Address Monitoring, which lets you know if someone changes their home address to redirect mail. Criminals often use this tactic to intercept sensitive information, such as bank statements or personal correspondence, to gain access to accounts or commit fraud.
ID Theft Insurance helps cover costs if your data is compromised. The coverage, up to $1 million, assists with expenses related to identity recovery, such as legal fees, lost wages, and other financial challenges that may arise while restoring one’s identity.
Finally, Data Removal helps users remove their personal information from data broker sites, which often collect and sell details like names, addresses, phone numbers, and social media profiles. With the Data Removal feature, users can request the deletion of their personal information from these sites to ensure their data isn’t sold or misused.
The new features are currently available exclusively to new users in the U.S., with plans to gradually roll out to all U.S.-based users. For those on the 2-year plan, Identity Defender is included as a free upgrade. Users on other plans can access ID Theft Insurance and Data Removal as optional add-ons.
Also, at the moment, only Android and iOS platforms support these features, but ExpressVPN has stated that more platforms will be supported in the future.
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