Third-party audits are all the rage in the VPN world these days, at least among reputable providers.
So, it was only natural for PIA to step up and allow their service to be audited by Deloitte in 2022. But let’s take a closer look at what this means for you.
'PIA No Logs Audit' contents (select to expand)
Why Audit a VPN?
You see, a strict no-logs policy is one of the most important features to look for in a VPN. Unfortunately, as a user, it’s pretty much impossible for us to confirm whether VPN providers are actually telling the truth about whether they keep logs or not. We just have to take their word for it.
But there have been several instances in the past in which a “no logs VPN” revealed that they actually had kept logs, by turning over a user’s data to law enforcement or other agencies.
On the flip side, several VPNs have proven their no logs policy in court, including PIA. But it’s not every day they get that opportunity.
Hence, the third-party audit. It’s a way for VPNs to confirm their lack of logging before they get taken to court.
You can find a list of other VPNs that have been audited on our list of Best No Log VPNs.
What PIA’s Audit Means
When third-party firm Deloitte audited PIA, they confirmed their lack of logs, and also found that their internal systems did not try to track nor identify users or their activities.
That’s a great thing to hear. It means that Private Internet Access is actually private and secure, allowing us to use it with more confidence.
PIA Has Also Proven Its No Logs Policy in Court
As we mentioned above, PIA has proven its lack of logs in court too, on multiple occasions.
In 2016 and 2018, the FBI subpoenaed Private Internet Access in two separate cases, ordering them to turn over their logs. But… well, there were no logs. And thus nothing to turn over.
When you combine these cases with the audit highlighted above, it shows a clear track record for PIA and their ability to maintain user’s privacy.