A proxy server relays traffic to hide your IP address from any potential intruders and keeps you anonymous. Youtube proxy sites use proxy servers to allow their users to watch Youtube in situations where it might otherwise be blocked. But these sites carry significant risks, which is why we recommend using a VPN instead.
In this article, we’ll talk about the risks of using Youtube proxy sites and recommend a few VPNs to use in replacement. They are safer and more reliable. Find out everything you need to know below.
The dangers when using a YouTube proxy site
Sometimes, YouTube might be blocked because of technical issues, your office or school network admin has blocked it, or Youtube might not be available in your country. Many people turn to proxy sites as a means to unblock Youtube. These sites let you access and interact with Youtube through a proxy server instead of your own, direct connection.
The problem with using a YouTube proxy site to do this is that even though your IP address is hidden to the internet at large, the proxy servers still have access to your personal data. Not all proxy servers are encrypted, and even if your IP address is hidden, the actual data packets (your browsing content) can still be ready by third parties.
Here are some of the risks when using a YouTube Proxy site:
Privacy and personal data
Whenever you access a website through a proxy server, all the data packets traveling from point A (your computer) to point B (the webpage you’re visiting) have to go through a third-party server first. Unfortunately, these servers do not always protect and encrypt your personal data. If they’re so inclined, they might record your online activities and personal data and share that info with third parties.
Additionally, if law enforcement gets involved with personal data theft or fraud, the proxy sites cannot take responsibility on behalf of you and- since they don’t have a no-logs policy- will not do anything to protect your information.
Spam and viruses
Proxy servers often have banners and ads which will track your activity on each site you visit and might download malware, spam, or viruses to your computer.
What is a VPN and why do I need one?
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, works by securely encrypting your internet connection and routing it through a secure intermediary server. Like a proxy, it also hides your IP address, meaning you can browse the web anonymously from anywhere. A VPN for YouTube will protect you from personal data theft, ad tracking, and malware, making it much more secure than a YouTube proxy site.
A VPN is technically a type of proxy, but a good VPN is much faster and more secure than Youtube proxy sites. The VPNs we recommend don’t record your personal info or log any of your online activities while using the VPN.
Here’s a list of our recommended YouTube VPNs:
- NordVPN: Our top YouTube VPN recommendation. Nord is fast, reliable, and has servers around the world. Packed with security features. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
- Surfshark: The best budget pick. Affordable long-term subscriptions, plenty of features, and apps for all popular devices.
- ExpressVPN: One of the fastest VPNs on the market, perfect for streaming in HD. Safe and secure with a no-logs policy.
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How to watch YouTube with a VPN
Your VPN setup will vary somewhat depending on your operating system and which device(s) you’re using to connect. For further troubleshooting or instructions specific to your operating system or device(s), contact your VPN’s customer service team or check their website.
Here’s how to watch YouTube with a VPN:
- Sign up for a VPN that works with YouTube. We highly recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the software or apps to your device(s). Our recommendations have apps for most popular devices.
- Sign into the VPN with your account credentials.
- Open the VPN app and connect to a server.
- Open Youtube and start watching. If you have any issues, try clearing your cookies and cache.
