There are valid reasons for using a UC browser with a VPN. If you’re using this browser, you need to know that despite the fast download, cloud-boost, and ad-blocking features, it doesn’t keep you safe on the Internet.
Unlike the common perception, the Internet is a more dangerous place than you can imagine. Passwords get stolen, communication intercepted, and transaction fraud happens because of underestimating how vicious hackers can be. There’s also the potential threat of being spied on by government agencies. And these are just a few of the threats.
So with that in mind, let’s take a deeper look at if you really need a VPN for the UC browser.
What is the UC Browser?
If you’re wondering what UC browser is and why it’s so popular, here are some quick facts. UC Browser was developed by UC Web, a Chinese company owned by the Alibaba Group. It was launched in 2004 and is highly popular in Asia. UC browser takes the 3rd spot in terms of browser market share in the region.
You can download UC browser for popular operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Blackberry. The technology that drives the UC browser involves data compression, which allows the browser to load pages with a comparatively smaller download size.
UC Browser has a range of features that make it a hit amongst internet users. These include night mode, cloud-boost (which increases download speed), and an ad-blocker. When you’re using UC Browser, files continue to download in the background even if you’ve shut down the app.
If you’re looking for an alternative, you might find this guide helpful: Best Anonymous Browsers for 2020.
Do You Need a UC Browser VPN?
Despite the popularity of the UC browser and its user-friendly features, there are concerns that users’ security and privacy could be compromised. In 2019, a security flaw on the UC browser was exposed. The flaw, which allows UC Web to push updates through an insecure channel, can potentially be manipulated by hackers.
In 2015, Citizen Lab published a report indicating that UC Browser was transmitting sensitive information like IMEI, Android ID, and geolocation data without proper encryption. While UC Web fixed the vulnerabilities in subsequent releases, it uses an easily-decrypted encryption algorithm.
The privacy and security risks of using UC browser are real. Popular whistle-blower Edward Snowden made public his findings on how the Five Eyes alliance has already identified the vulnerabilities of the UC browser and are actively exploiting them for surveillance.
If you don’t want to be the subject of cyberattacks or government surveillance when using the UC browser, you’ll need a VPN. A VPN keeps you safe by hiding your device’s IP address and encrypting the data transmission between the device and the Internet.
Most top-rated VPNs use the AES-256 encryption, which is regarded as military-grade. It’s used by banks, military, and governments, and is technically unbreakable. Even if hackers manage to intercept the communication of your device, the data remain encrypted and incomprehensible.
Some users may worry about having their download speed affected when using a VPN. While it’s true that a VPN channels the data through secure servers, the latency will not affect browsing experience. Of course, this is true only if you’re using top-rated VPNs that are known for their highspeed connections.
What to Look For When Choosing A VPN
You’ll want to look beyond price when choosing a VPN to keep you safe when using the UC Browser. This means you’ll need to take these factors into considerations:
- Encryption and Protocol – Choose a VPN that uses AES-256 or equivalent encryption. As for protocols, OpenVPN and IKEv2 are proven to be safe and secure.
- High Connection Speed – Using a VPN shouldn’t bog down connection speed. Choose a VPN that guarantees unlimited bandwidth with low latency.
- No Logs Policy – A VPN provider should never store personal information that could be tagged on browsing activities. It should be clearly spelled out in their privacy policy.
- Kill Switch – Amongst the features of a VPN, a kill switch is one of the most important ones. It automatically disconnects the Internet when the VPN connection drops.
- Customer Support – There will be occasions where you’ll need to get hold of customer support personnel. Look for VPNs that provide responsive support, such as 24/7 live chat.
- OS-Compatibility – The UC browser is supported by various operating systems. Ensure that the VPN you’ve chosen supports the device that you’re using.
How to Use a VPN on the UC Browser
To stay safe when using the UC browser, you’ll need to install and connect to a VPN server before launching the browser.
1. Subscribe and download a VPN. We’re using NordVPN in this guide.
2. Install the VPN and sign in with your credentials.
3. Connect to a VPN server. Usually, you’ll get the best performance when connecting to a server near your location.
4. Launch the UC Browser after connecting to the VPN. Now you’re safe and protected from hackers and surveillance.
For more on VPNs, read How to Set Up a VPN
Best VPNs for the UC Browser
FEATURES | ExpressVPN | Assguard | NordVPN |
| High-Speed Connection | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| AES-256 encryption | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Number of countries | 94+ | 50+ | 59 |
| No-logs policy | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 24/7 Customer support | ✅ | No, but they are responsive | ✅ |
| No of devices | 5 | 6 | 6 |
| Supports chain VPN connections | No | Yes (Double VPN) | Yes (Double VPN) |
| Cost | $12.95 | $7.99 | $11.95 |
Summary
Browsing has never been easier with UC Browser. However, don’t let that trap you into a false sense of safety. It’s prudent to install a VPN to protect yourself from hackers and spies. Get a VPN now before using the UC Browser app.
