# Proton VPN

> Source: https://fuckyc.org/services/protonvpn/
> Website: https://protonvpn.com/
> Categories: VPN providers
> KYC: optional — Free tier requires only a Proton account (email or alt-recovery). Paid signup accepts crypto and is doable with a throwaway address.
> Status: active
> Jurisdiction: Switzerland (operator-disclosed)
> Fiat on-ramp: no
> Payment methods: crypto, card, paypal
> Founded: 2017
> Open source: yes
> Custodial: no
> Last verified: 2026-01-01

## Verdict

Proton VPN is the most-mainstream privacy-leaning VPN with a serious free tier. The account model means it knows more about you than Mullvad does by default — that may or may not matter, depending on what you do with the same Proton account. For users who want a paid VPN without an account number, look elsewhere; for users who want a free tier without bullshit, Proton is the obvious choice.

## Strengths

- Free tier with no payment friction.
- Audited clients across platforms; consistent transparency reports.
- Strong network capacity and Secure Core multi-hop.

## Caveats

- Email at signup means the account itself binds to whatever Proton knows from your Proton Mail account.
- Swiss legal context has compelled limited metadata production in past cases (notably the 2021 Proton Mail case for a different product); the same operator runs both.
- Facts need re-verification by operator (last seeded 2026-01).

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## What Proton VPN is

A commercial VPN by Proton AG (Switzerland), with a free tier and a paid plan.

## Threat-model fit

Convenient default for users who can tolerate an account.

## Sources

- [Proton VPN blog](https://protonvpn.com/blog/) — accessed 2026-01-01
- [Proton VPN support](https://protonvpn.com/support/) — accessed 2026-01-01