A Big Mistake Organizations Make with Business VPNs and How to Avoid It

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have long been regarded as a cornerstone of cybersecurity for businesses. Their primary function is to create a secure and encrypted tunnel between a user’s device and the internet, masking the user’s IP address and protecting data from potential eavesdroppers.

This makes VPNs an essential tool for protecting sensitive information, particularly when accessing corporate networks from remote locations or public Wi-Fi networks. However, the perception that VPNs alone can offer comprehensive protection against all types of cyber threats is a dangerous misconception that has led many organizations to under-invest in broader, more holistic security measures.

VPNs: A Vital but Limited Tool in Organizational Security

VPNs play a crucial role in securing remote access to corporate networks. By encrypting data transmissions, they help ensure that sensitive information, such as passwords, emails, and proprietary business data, is not intercepted by malicious actors. This is particularly important in today’s increasingly remote work environment, where employees may connect to corporate networks from various locations, often using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.

Moreover, VPNs can help organizations enforce geographical restrictions, enabling employees to access company resources from different regions while maintaining the appearance of being in the same location as the corporate network. This can be particularly useful for global organizations with employees or partners in multiple countries.

Despite these benefits, VPNs are not a cure-all for cybersecurity challenges. While they provide a layer of security, they are far from invulnerable and should not be viewed as a comprehensive solution. The assumption that a VPN can address all security concerns often leads organizations to neglect other critical aspects of their cybersecurity strategy, leaving them exposed to various threats.

The Dangerous Assumption: VPNs as a Comprehensive Solution

One of the most common misconceptions about VPNs is that they are a one-stop solution for securing business networks. This belief is particularly prevalent in organizations that are new to cybersecurity or that have limited resources to invest in more sophisticated security infrastructure. The allure of VPNs lies in their simplicity and effectiveness in addressing specific security concerns, such as securing remote access or protecting data during transmission. However, this perceived simplicity often leads to an over-reliance on VPNs, with organizations assuming that their network is fully secure as long as a VPN is in place.

This assumption can be particularly dangerous because it overlooks the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and attackers are always finding new ways to bypass security measures. VPNs, while effective in certain scenarios, are not designed to defend against all types of attacks. For example, they do not provide protection against phishing, malware, or insider threats—three of the most common and damaging forms of cyberattacks. Additionally, VPNs cannot prevent an attacker from gaining access to a user’s device if the device itself is compromised, nor can they protect against vulnerabilities in the underlying network infrastructure.

Real-World Consequences of Over-Reliance on VPNs

The dangers of assuming that VPNs alone can secure a network have been demonstrated in several high-profile security incidents. For instance, in 2024, researchers uncovered a vulnerability in some VPN implementations that allowed attackers to intercept and manipulate traffic, effectively bypassing the VPN’s protections.

This vulnerability exploited a flaw in the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), which is responsible for assigning IP addresses within a network. By setting up a rogue DHCP server, an attacker on the same local network as the victim could force the victim’s device to connect to the attacker’s server instead of the legitimate one. This enabled the attacker to reroute the victim’s traffic, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive information or the installation of malware.

This incident highlights the fact that VPNs are not foolproof. While they can encrypt data and provide a secure connection, they are still dependent on other network components, such as DHCP servers, which can themselves be vulnerable to attack. If an organization relies solely on VPNs for security, without addressing potential weaknesses in the broader network infrastructure, it risks leaving critical gaps in its defenses.

Another example is the infamous SolarWinds attack in 2020, where attackers used compromised VPN credentials to gain access to government and corporate networks. In this case, the VPN was not inherently flawed, but the attackers exploited the fact that the organization had placed too much trust in the VPN as a security measure.

By obtaining valid VPN credentials, the attackers were able to move laterally within the network, gaining access to sensitive systems and data. This attack demonstrated that even if a VPN is secure, it can still be exploited if other security measures, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and network segmentation, are not in place.

The Need for a Holistic Approach to Security

These examples underscore the importance of adopting a holistic approach to cybersecurity. While VPNs are a valuable tool, they should be viewed as just one component of a broader security strategy. Organizations must recognize that relying solely on VPNs is insufficient to protect against the wide range of cyber threats they face.

To build a robust security posture, organizations should complement their VPN usage with additional security measures. For instance, implementing Zero Trust architecture, which assumes that no user or device is trusted by default, can help mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on VPNs. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should also be used to strengthen access controls, ensuring that even if VPN credentials are compromised, attackers cannot easily gain access to the network. Regular security audits, employee training, and the use of advanced threat detection tools are also essential components of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.

While VPNs are an important tool for securing business networks, they should not be viewed as a magical solution to all cybersecurity challenges. Organizations must recognize the limitations of VPNs and take a more holistic approach to security, incorporating multiple layers of protection to address the ever-evolving threat landscape.

Understanding What a VPN Can and Cannot Do

How VPNs Work: A Technical Overview

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is designed to create a secure and encrypted connection between a user’s device and a remote server, which then connects to the internet. The fundamental purpose of a VPN is to enhance privacy and security by encrypting the user’s data and masking their IP address. This process involves several key components:

1. Encryption: When a user connects to a VPN, their data is encrypted before it leaves their device. Encryption converts data into a secure format that can only be decrypted by someone with the correct key. This ensures that any data transmitted over the internet is protected from eavesdropping.
2. Tunneling Protocols: VPNs use various tunneling protocols to create a secure “tunnel” between the user’s device and the VPN server. Common protocols include OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, and IKEv2/IPsec. These protocols determine how the data is encapsulated and transmitted securely through the tunnel.
3. VPN Server: The VPN server acts as an intermediary between the user’s device and the internet. When data is sent from the user’s device, it first goes to the VPN server, which then forwards it to its final destination. This masks the user’s IP address with that of the VPN server, helping to anonymize the user’s online activity.
4. Authentication: VPNs require authentication to establish a connection. This may involve username and password, certificates, or multi-factor authentication (MFA). Authentication ensures that only authorized users can access the VPN.

Primary Use Cases of VPNs

1. Securing Remote Access: One of the primary use cases for VPNs is to secure remote access to a corporate network. When employees work remotely or travel, they can use a VPN to connect to their company’s network securely. This ensures that sensitive data transmitted between the remote device and the corporate network is protected from interception.
2. Protecting Public Wi-Fi Connections: VPNs are also valuable for securing connections over public Wi-Fi networks. Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes or airports, are often less secure and more vulnerable to attacks. A VPN encrypts the user’s data, protecting it from potential eavesdroppers on the same network.
3. Bypassing Geo-Restrictions: VPNs can be used to bypass geographic restrictions on content. By connecting to a VPN server in a different country, users can access content that may be restricted based on their geographic location. This is commonly used to access streaming services or websites that are only available in certain regions.
4. Enhancing Privacy and Anonymity: VPNs help enhance online privacy and anonymity by masking the user’s IP address. This makes it more difficult for websites and online services to track users based on their IP address, contributing to a higher level of privacy.

Limitations of VPNs

Inherent Limitations

1. Limited Protection Against Cyber Threats: While VPNs offer strong encryption and privacy protections, they are not designed to defend against all types of cyber threats. VPNs do not provide protection against malware, phishing attacks, or insider threats. These threats require additional security measures beyond what a VPN can offer.
2. Device and Network Vulnerabilities: VPNs secure the connection between the user’s device and the VPN server, but they do not address vulnerabilities within the device or the network itself. If a device is infected with malware or if there are weaknesses in the network infrastructure, these issues can still compromise security, regardless of the VPN.
3. Performance Impact: The encryption and tunneling processes used by VPNs can impact network performance. Users may experience slower internet speeds due to the additional overhead introduced by the VPN. This can be a significant drawback for activities that require high-speed connections, such as video streaming or online gaming.
4. False Sense of Security: One of the most critical limitations is the false sense of security that VPNs can create. Organizations may rely too heavily on VPNs and neglect other essential security measures, such as endpoint protection, regular software updates, and network monitoring. This over-reliance can lead to security gaps and vulnerabilities.

Technical Explanation of Vulnerabilities

1. DHCP Vulnerability: An example of a vulnerability that can affect VPNs is related to the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). In some cases, attackers can exploit DHCP flaws to intercept or manipulate VPN traffic. By setting up a rogue DHCP server on the same network, an attacker can force a user’s device to connect to the rogue server instead of the legitimate one. This allows the attacker to intercept and potentially manipulate the user’s data, bypassing the VPN’s encryption.
2. VPN Protocol Vulnerabilities: Different VPN protocols have varying levels of security. Some older protocols, such as PPTP (Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol), are known to have weaker encryption and are more susceptible to attacks. Using outdated or insecure VPN protocols can expose users to potential risks and vulnerabilities.

The Risks of Over-Reliance on VPNs

Common Vulnerabilities in VPNs

1. Exploitation and Configuration Errors: VPNs can be vulnerable to exploitation if they are not properly configured. Common configuration errors include weak encryption settings, improper access controls, and outdated software. These errors can create opportunities for attackers to compromise the VPN and gain unauthorized access to the network.
2. Outdated Protocols: As mentioned earlier, outdated VPN protocols can present security risks. For example, PPTP is considered obsolete due to its weak encryption and susceptibility to attacks. Organizations that use outdated protocols without regularly updating their VPN configurations may be exposed to unnecessary risks.
3. Misconfigured Access Controls: VPNs often require access control configurations to manage user permissions and access levels. Misconfigured access controls can lead to unauthorized access or privilege escalation, allowing attackers to gain access to sensitive parts of the network.

Case Studies of VPN Failures

1. SolarWinds Attack (2020): The SolarWinds attack involved sophisticated threat actors who exploited vulnerabilities in the SolarWinds network management software. One of the key methods used by the attackers was compromising VPN credentials to gain access to sensitive networks. Although the VPN itself was not inherently flawed, the attack demonstrated the dangers of over-relying on VPNs without implementing additional security measures.
2. ExpressVPN Data Breach (2021): In 2021, ExpressVPN, a popular VPN provider, faced scrutiny over a data breach that exposed user data. The breach highlighted the risks associated with relying on VPN providers to secure data, as even well-regarded VPN services can be vulnerable to attacks. This incident emphasized the importance of using VPNs as part of a broader security strategy rather than a standalone solution.

Supplementing VPNs with a Comprehensive Security Strategy

The Need for a Multi-Layered Security Approach

1. Concept of Defense in Depth: Defense in depth is a security strategy that involves implementing multiple layers of protection to defend against various types of threats. VPNs are just one layer of this strategy. To build a robust security posture, organizations should integrate additional security measures, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and endpoint protection.
2. Integrating Zero Trust and MFA: Zero Trust architecture assumes that no user or device is inherently trusted, regardless of their location within the network. Implementing Zero Trust principles alongside VPNs can help mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on VPNs. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access, further enhancing protection.

Implementing Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

1. Overview of SASE: Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a modern security framework that combines network and security functions into a unified solution. It provides comprehensive protection by integrating capabilities such as Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA).
2. Complementing or Replacing VPNs: SASE can complement or even replace traditional VPNs by providing more granular control and visibility. Unlike VPNs, which primarily focus on securing remote access, SASE offers a holistic approach to security by addressing various aspects of network and application security. This includes secure access to cloud services, threat protection, and data loss prevention.

Best Practices for VPN Usage

Choosing the Right VPN Solution

1. Encryption Standards: When selecting a VPN provider, ensure that they use strong encryption standards, such as AES-256. Strong encryption helps protect data from being decrypted by unauthorized parties.
2. Logging Policies: Review the VPN provider’s logging policies to understand how they handle user data. A provider that keeps minimal logs and adheres to privacy standards is preferable to one with extensive logging practices that could compromise user privacy.
3. Jurisdiction: Consider the jurisdiction in which the VPN provider operates. Providers based in countries with strong privacy laws are generally better equipped to protect user data.

Proper Configuration and Management

1. Regular Updates: Keep the VPN software and related systems up to date with the latest patches and updates. Regular updates help address security vulnerabilities and ensure that the VPN remains secure against emerging threats.
2. Strong Authentication: Implement strong authentication mechanisms, such as MFA, to enhance access controls and reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Regularly review and update authentication settings to align with best practices.
3. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Configure VPNs to avoid common vulnerabilities, such as those related to DHCP. Regularly audit and test VPN configurations to ensure they adhere to security best practices and address potential weaknesses.

Regular Audits and Security Assessments

1. Conducting Security Assessments: Regularly conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities in the VPN setup. These assessments help uncover potential weaknesses and provide insights into improving the overall security posture.
2. Continuous Monitoring: Implement continuous monitoring to detect anomalies and potential security incidents related to VPN usage. Monitoring tools can help identify unauthorized access attempts and other suspicious activities.

Educating and Training Employees

Raising Awareness about VPN Limitations

1. Educating Employees: Educate employees about the limitations of VPNs and the importance of not relying solely on them for security. Training should cover the role of VPNs in the broader security strategy and the need to adhere to best practices.
2. Promoting Best Practices: Encourage employees to follow best practices for VPN usage, such as avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions and being cautious of phishing attempts.

Ongoing Security Training

1. Continuous Training Programs: Implement continuous security training programs to keep staff informed about the latest threats and security best practices. Regular training helps employees stay aware of evolving threats and enhances their ability to recognize and respond to potential security incidents.
2. Scenario-Based Training: Use scenario-based training to simulate real-world security threats and teach employees how to respond effectively. This hands-on approach helps reinforce security practices and prepares employees for actual security challenges.

While VPNs are an essential tool for securing remote access and protecting privacy, they are not a comprehensive solution for all cybersecurity challenges. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of VPNs, supplementing them with a multi-layered security approach, and educating employees are crucial steps in building a robust security posture. By adopting these practices, organizations can enhance their overall security and mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on VPNs.

Conclusion

Contrary to popular belief, relying solely on VPNs is not a complete or magical solution for all cybersecurity challenges. While VPNs are valuable tools for securing remote connections and protecting privacy, they cannot address every facet of network security. To truly safeguard against modern threats, organizations must embrace a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that integrates multiple layers of protection.

This approach includes combining VPNs with advanced security measures like Zero Trust, multifactor authentication, and continuous monitoring. By broadening their security posture, organizations can effectively mitigate risks and prevent vulnerabilities that VPNs alone cannot address. As a critical step, businesses should regularly assess and update their security practices, ensuring that VPNs are part of a broader, robust defense. Remember, the key to robust security does not lie in a single solution but in a well-rounded, proactive approach.