In today\\\'s digital era, electronic commerce has gained unprecedented popularity, facilitating a change of benefits and services for the Internet. However, this growth was accompanied by a considerable increase in cyber security measures that compromise the security of transactions and the protection of sensitive data. In this context, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are emerging as a viable solution to improve digital security in electronic commerce. This article examines the crucial role that VPNs play in protecting data during online transactions and their limitations. What is a VPN and how does it work? A VPN is a service that allows you to create a secure and encrypted connection on a less secure network, such as the Internet. It is possible to create a virtual \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"tunnel\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" that encrypts data transmitted between the user and the VPN server. Using a VPN will reveal hidden user IP, making it difficult to track your online activities by attackers or third parties. This resource is essential for making online purchases or shopping with financial data. The Importance of Digital Security in E-commerce Digital security is becoming increasingly important due to growing concerns about identity theft, fraud and data breaches. According to a report from Cybersecurity Ventures (2021), damages caused by cybercrimes should amount to US$ 6 trillion annually by 2021. This highlights not only the risk inherent to e-commerce, but also the urgent need for robust protections, where VPNs play a crucial role. Benefits of Using VPNs in E-commerce There are two main benefits that VPNs offer to cryptography. This capability ensures that any information that a user sends or receives is protected against malicious interception. When making an online purchase, bank details, instructions and other information may make people vulnerable to using public Wi-Fi networks; Therefore, a VPN serves as an effective shield against potential threats. Also, the use of a VPN allows users to access sites that may have geographical restrictions. This is relevant for those looking to buy specific products that are only available in certain regions. However, although this functionality may appear harmless, it also raises ethical debates about its use for fraudulent purposes and tax evasion.

Custo versus profit: an inevitable dilemma

Despite its inegáveis advantages, the use of a VPN is not without disadvantages. Some critics argue that it can give users a false sense of security. For example, if data is encrypted between the user\\\'s device and the VPN server, the latter has full access to the transferred information. Thus, if the provider is not trustworthy or vulnerable to attacks, it can create even more risks.

Meanwhile, there are trusted providers that prioritize user privacy and do not register any activity; Finding a legitimate supplier can be complicated. Also, these VPNs generally require very specific messages, and can be seen as a barrier for small businesses or consumers. Impact on user experience The use of a VPN can also negatively affect the user experience during online purchases. Connections may be slower due to the additional encryption and traffic redirection process by the VPN server. This can generate frustration among consumers, who prefer fast and fluid experiences when carrying out transactions.

Alternatives to VPNs

Despite two potential benefits offered by VPNs, there are alternatives that can also enhance digital security in electronic commerce. Technologies such as Secure Socket Layer (SSL) are essential to protect data transfer between browsers and servers. Sites with SSL certificates promote the necessary trust between consumers and merchants, providing an additional layer of security.

As well, methods such as two-factor authentication (2FA) have been widely used to mitigate the risks associated with unauthorized access. These complementary measures are essential to maintain a safe ecosystem in electronic commerce.

Final Conclusions

Despite the significant potential of VPNs to improve digital security during online business transactions, they also present important limitations that should be carefully considered. Since it offers essential online encryption and privacy, its effectiveness depends largely on the chosen provider and its reputation. A combination of various technologies and best practices proves to be more effective in the long term to guarantee the security of electronic commerce.

Bibliography

Cybersecurity Ventures. (2021). O Custo do Crime Cibernético. Available in [URL]