Rocket VPN is a free, lightweight application offering server connections in 12 countries worldwide. Despite its user-friendly interface and simplicity, Rocket VPN falls short of privacy expectations due to inadequate logging practices, reliance on an ad-based revenue model, and a lack of transparency regarding its operations.
Features
Rocket VPN, developed by Liquidum—a company based in Ireland with additional offices in Canada—is a mobile-only VPN service powered by HotSpot Shield. HotSpot Shield has recently faced allegations of user surveillance.
The application is compatible with Android 4.0.3 and newer versions, as well as iOS 9.0 and above, including phones, tablets, and iPod Touch.
The interface, which follows Google’s Material design, may seem dated to some users. It is, however, exceptionally straightforward, offering minimal settings beyond a toggle for auto-connect functionality upon app launch.
The main screen provides access to server locations, a Connect button, and an indication of data encryption. Notably, the app does not specify the encryption type or protocol used. The vague description of “encryption” on Google Play, iTunes, and the developer’s website can mislead users into overestimating their anonymity. It is crucial to note that while a VPN can enhance privacy, it does not guarantee anonymity. Rocket VPN’s lack of transparency regarding encryption raises concerns about its trustworthiness.
Support is limited to email and a basic FAQ section, with no chat support available.
Rocket VPN includes a built-in browser that may be suitable for general web browsing but struggles with media content display, necessitating the use of alternative browsers for streaming.
A notable feature is the app dashboard, allowing users to specify locations for individual apps, such as configuring Netflix to always connect via a US server. The setup process is simple, involving the selection of an app and location.
Other features include the absence of a kill switch and no options to modify encryption or protocols.
Pricing
Rocket VPN is available for free download on both Google Play Store and iTunes. Upon installation, an account is created based on app store credentials, and users receive a 250 MB monthly data quota.
Free accounts provide access to servers in 12 countries, including the US, the UK, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Ireland, Ukraine, and five EU nations.
For users requiring additional data, paid plans are available. On Android, these plans include $3.99 per month, $8.99 for three months, and $23.75 for a year. Based on available information, there may also be options to purchase extra data starting from $0.99 up to $35.99.
Paid subscribers benefit from faster servers within the same locations and the ability to use the Rocket VPN license across up to five devices (Android and iOS).
The developer’s pricing information is not clearly outlined, making it challenging to understand all in-app purchase options. Payments are processed via Google Play and Apple iTunes, with a refund policy that is difficult to interpret, particularly in relation to VPN plans.
Performance
Testing Rocket VPN for speed and security showed minimal impact on connection speeds. The following results were recorded using the Meteor app before connecting to a VPN:
- Connected to a US server:
- Connected to a UK server:
Rocket VPN did not exhibit DNS, WebRTC, or IPv6 leaks.
Streaming BBC iPlayer was possible, though with significant buffering due to speed limitations. However, Netflix connectivity issues arose; the app failed to connect when using the VPN. Attempts to access Netflix through a mobile browser were thwarted by a redirect to the mobile app, which also did not connect.
Privacy and Security
Rocket VPN’s privacy practices raise significant concerns. It is classified as adware, logs extensive user activity, and offers no clarity regarding encryption or protocols.
The Privacy Policy reveals troubling practices, including logging user activities and potentially storing information transmitted to others through the app. This raises concerns about profiling not only users but also their contacts, without consent.
In addition to logging metadata, usage data, location, device identifiers, and carrier information, Rocket VPN employs cookies and web beacons. Security researchers have labeled it as “malicious and intrusive,” and it is flagged as malware by VirusTotal.
