Contributions by Rafay Baloch Cybersecurity expert
Contributions by Dr. Phil Legg Professor of Cyber Security at UWE
Many cheap virtual private networks (VPNs) make the user pay in other ways, whether it’s lax security, inferior encryption, missing features, or slower speeds. However, the best cheap VPNs are capable of matching up to their premium counterparts, offering a cut-price alternative for anyone in need of an affordable option.
Cheap VPNs can rival their pricier competitors in terms of security and privacy features, including independently verified no-logs policies, solid encryption and strong kill switches. They can ensure that your online activities and personal information remain private just as effectively as more expensive VPN providers. While even the best free VPNs can lack crucial features, a handful of cheap VPNs offer reliable security without breaking the bank, and can be used for other tasks such as streaming.
Remember, you’ll also be able to take advantage of a money-back guarantee if you’re not impressed, and the typical VPN has a 30-day refund policy.
30
VPNs Tested
500+
Speed Tests
1000+
Data Points Analysed
Our testing and selection process
How we test and score
How we select the winners
Our testing criteria
Our best cheap VPN list uses objective and data-driven tests for scoring, and it assesses the factors and subfactors that we believe are most important for anyone using a VPN. This includes over 500 speed tests across MacOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices. In addition, we consider a number of key aspects when comparing VPNs. The breakdown is as follows:
Our VPN tests compare performance across eight critical factors: privacy & security, speed, pricing, content access, usability, features, customer service and the company. Our overall scores are calculated using mathematical formulas and equations derived from our data-driven testing. Each factor has various subfactors that help to inform scoring. For instance, when looking at pricing (18%), we consider the cost of a 12-month subscription, as well as the number of total options. We see if pricing is transparent, and check the length of the VPNs refund policy. Additional points are awarded if there are free versions or free trials. Lastly, we look at the percentage saving of the best deals available. We thoroughly examine each of the criteria listed above in a similar way. Wherever possible, our VPN tests and reviews use objective and quantifiable data to inform scoring. To round out our testing process, we also use expert subjective assessment supported by data. You can see our testing and scoring process here.
Testing factors and evidence
Rather than taking our word for it, we’ve included information detailing the scoring and evidence we collected for each provider during testing.
For example, you’ll find speed test videos for each VPN in the speed section. Selecting privacy & security will bring up a video of our IP leak tests, alongside an average score for this section. For content access, we’ve added a screenshot of the VPN while accessing a popular streaming platform like BBC iPlayer or Netflix. Pricing has screenshots with the latest fees, while customer service contains videos of our interactions with live chat support. Features has a rundown of what to expect from each VPN, while we use the Flesch score of the VPN’s homepage to highlight usability. Finally, we’ve included Companies House information for the company section.
When selecting the best cheap VPNs, we looked at a combination of overall scoring in terms of speed, reliability, content access, pricing, privacy & security, usability, features, customer service, and the company itself. This data was used, along with our established VPN framework to inform the listings. The best cheap provider should excel in all areas. Factors such as server numbers were considered but didn’t contribute to the overall scoring. The number of subscriptions offered is another non-scoring factor that was considered.
To be included within these listings, the VPN must have a pricing score that exceeds 8.00. Windscribe is the sole exception, given it allows the user to connect to a single server location for a low monthly fee. For a provider to be considered a cheap VPN, it must offer coverage for less than £2 per month.
Our pick of the top VPNs right now
If you find you’re unimpressed by the options listed below, here’s a roundup of our top picks for the best VPNs in 2024. While a couple aren’t especially cheap, we’ve chosen our top three providers based on their overall scoring.
NordVPN: best overall VPN – NordVPN is our pick for the best overall VPN. It costs just £2.49 per month and comes with an ironclad 30-day money-back guarantee. It scored highest for privacy & security, usability and features and accessed every streaming service during testing with ease. Servers in 111+ countries.
With our exclusive deal, our best VPN for speed, Surfshark, can be used for as little as £1.69 per month. It was the fastest VPN overall during testing across all devices, and it comes with a 30-day refund policy.
ExpressVPN: best VPN for streaming – ExpressVPN accessed every streaming service successfully during testing, scoring high marks across the board. It has lots of extra features, including a password manager, Threat Protection, a custom protocol, and more.
James Milin-Ashmore has covered cybersecurity and VPNs since the mid-2010s, writing for industry publications and services such as VPN Mentor, Liquid VPN, Comparitech, Bleeping Computer, ProPrivacy, AlwaysVPN, and more.
With a focus on ethics and digital privacy, his work has been featured in a range of publications, including the Activist Handbook and Reader’s Digest. In his spare time, he’s likely to be watching sports, or taking his dog for a walk around Hertfordshire.
Rafay
Cybersecurity expert
Rafay Baloch
Lead cybersecurity expert
Rafay Baloch isa globally renowned cybersecurity expert and white-hat hacker with a proven track record of identifying critical zero-day security vulnerabilities in numerous web applications, products, and browsers. His discoveries have been instrumental in safeguarding the privacy and security of millions of users worldwide. Baloch has received various accolades, including being named one of the “Top 5 Ethical Hackers of 2014” by Checkmarx, one of the “15 Most Successful Ethical Hackers Worldwide”, and one of the “Top 25 Threat Seekers” by SC Magazine. In addition, Reflectiz listed him among the “Top 21 Cybersecurity Experts You Must Follow on Twitter in 2021”.
Rafay has presented his research at various international cybersecurity conferences, including Black Hat, Hack In Paris, HEXCON, the 10th Information Security Conference in Greece, the CSAW Conference, and many others. He is frequently sought after for his insights and analysis on current cybersecurity topics, appearing in national and international mainstream media outlets such as Forbes, WSJ, BBC, Express Tribune, DAWN, and many others.
Luke has been writing about technology and science for almost two decades now. As such he’s been covering VPNs since they first started making a mainstream appearance. He also specialises in cars, TVs, health and fitness tech, sound systems, smart homes, power tools, white goods, toys and more. When he’s not doing all that he likes to surf, cinema and cycle.
Mariana
Writer/VPN tester
Mariana Krasteva
Writer/VPN tester
Latest update news
In a large update to our review methodology, we’ve switched to a quantitative, data-driven approach to our VPN listings. Following hundreds of hours of tests and research, over 1,000 data points were identified. Having started with 30 providers, our testing team has whittled them down to a shortlist of the five best cheap VPNs.
The best cheap VPNs right now
Our list of the best cheap VPN providers for the UK only include services with a high level of privacy, top-notch security features, and strong performance. These are the best cheap VPNs with seriously low prices available right now.
Devices supportedWindows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, web browsers, routers, game consoles and more
Customer support24/7 live chat
Simultaneous connectionsunlimited
Refund policy30-day guarantee
Impressive connection speeds across all devices
No device limits
A cheap VPN that ticks every box
Our verdict
Surfshark has built up a solid reputation as one of the best cheap VPNs on the market, and you wouldn’t know that it’s one of the more affordable options without looking at the price tag. Its overall score of 8.16 is the highest on this list, thanks to the company’s impressive results across the board.
Let’s start with pricing (8.40). Surfshark is a wallet-friendly option when looking at longer deals, while promos consistently offer some of the best savings you’ll find. At the time of writing, 84% off is hard to beat. This means that two-year subscriptions are currently priced at only £1.69 per month, so it’ll be tough to find a trustworthy alternative for a similar fee.
The ability to use an unlimited number of devices with a single account is always helpful, while Surfshark also comes with a no-logs policy that has been verified by Deloitte. Cure53 has audited Surfshark’s server infrastructure, ensuring that there are no configuration hiccups. In other words, privacy & security (8.12) is another strong point.
Most cheap VPNs will cut corners to some extent, but Surfshark is able to come up with the goods when it comes to both speeds and streaming. The VPN works well with a long list of UK platforms, and the same goes for various international services. This includes Prime Video, Disney Plus, BBC iPlayer and more, so it’s a great option for content access (9.50) from multiple locations. During my tests, only Proton VPN, NordVPN, and ExpressVPN accessed more streaming services, and they’re considerably more expensive than Surfshark.
The fastest VPN overall during testing, Surfshark offered especially impressive performance (8.25) on Apple devices. It beat out numerous premium providers, no matter which operating system was in use. Customer service (9.00) was also impressive whenever I got in contact, with some of the quickest average response times for any VPN. It took just 42 seconds to get through to a real human, and my question was answered satisfactorily each time.
If you’re in need of the best cheap VPN for the UK – or pretty much anywhere else on the planet – Surfshark ticks every box. There are thousands of servers to pick from in 100+ countries, while speeds can easily exceed the most expensive providers in the business. Surfshark works well with various streaming platforms, and it has been fully audited, including its infrastructure and logging policy. You can connect to it with an unlimited number of devices, while features include an ad blocker, obfuscation, and much more.
Devices supportedWindows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, web browsers, Smart TVs, game consoles and more
Customer supportLive chat, knowledge base and submit a request form
Simultaneous connectionsunlimited
Refund policy30 days
Affordable coverage on unlimited devices
A wide feature set across all operating systems
Fast speeds from a range of locations
Our verdict
Private Internet Access (PIA) is indisputably one of the cheapest VPNs you’re likely to find, especially if you’re willing to sign up for a year or two. Coming in at £1.69 per month, it’ll be tough to find many reputable providers that can match its current pricing (8.40) strategies. With strong security, various notable features (9.63) and capable streaming support, it’s a solid package for anyone in need of an affordable VPN.
PIA might be one of the cheapest VPNs to make the list, but it measures up to alternatives like Surfshark in many respects. For example, both allow for unlimited device connections using one account, and each can be used to access various streaming sites (9.00) and services securely. Only Sky Go and Channel 4 were inaccessible during our tests. PIA has been independently audited, ensuring that user data is dealt with safely.
A total of over 35,000 VPN servers is 10 times the number seen with Surfshark, although PIA pales in comparison when it comes to performance (7.34). Despite having one of the largest server networks on the market, connection speeds dropped markedly while testing on mobile devices, even when I was using local servers in the UK. The same was true for other regions such as the US and Australia. On the other hand, average MacOS speeds of 381Mbps while connected to UK VPN servers were a strong result.
PIA is a longstanding VPN that offers an excellent range of security features, including a dedicated IP address (for an extra fee). Connection speeds are sometimes slower than other providers we’ve reviewed, but subscription prices are more than reasonable. PIA is deserving of a spot on this list of the best cheap VPN providers, and it should be suitable for most online tasks.
Devices supportedWindows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, Chrome OS, routers and most streaming devices
Customer supportBot messenger, knowledge base and submit a request form
Simultaneous connectionsunlimited
Refund policy30 days
Speedy US servers
Cheap yearly subscriptions
Our verdict
IPVanish is another superb recommendation if you’re looking for a cheap VPN that offers decent speeds and strong security. Fast server speeds are complemented by unparalleled streaming access, while it also comes with an audited no-logs policy. A recent shift in pricing (8.40) strategies means that longer deals can now be considered if you’re in need of an affordable VPN. For instance, two-year subscriptions can be found for roughly £1.72 per month. Twelve-month deals work out to £2.18 per month, which is cheaper than much of the competition if you’re willing to sign up for a year of coverage.
Traditionally one of the fastest VPN services, IPVanish matches up to the likes of NordVPN and ExpressVPN for the most part. For example, it has the quickest Windows speeds (7.55) of any provider, exceeding 443Mbps via UK servers.
Of course, speeds are only one aspect to consider when picking a VPN. You also need to look at features (8.21), privacy and pricing. You’ll find IPVanish to be lacking in advanced features. For example, it’s missing out on multi-hop servers, as well as additions like SmartDNS and port forwarding.
Then there’s the fact that the company is based in the United States, which isn’t ideal given the proximity to agencies such as the NSA, as well as the country being a key Five Eyes member. For this reason, it earns a lower privacy & security score (6.47) than the VPNs listed in the top two spots. IPVanish does score well for content access (9.5), working with everything aside from Sky Go during my tests.
It’s clearly a worthy addition to this list of the best cheap VPNs, with a lot to offer for anyone in need of reliable speeds and strong streaming support from an audited provider. The US HQ is a drawback from a privacy perspective, but you’ll be protected by a strict no-logs policy. Given one of my main complaints about IPVanish over the years has been its high pricing, it’s great to see that it can be obtained for less than £2 per month at the time of writing.
Devices supportedWindows, Mac, iOS, Android, Fire TV Stick, Linux, Huawei, routers, web browsers and more
Customer supportBot messenger and knowledge base
Simultaneous connectionsunlimited
Refund policyseven days and 10GB limit
Free streaming servers
Custom VPN coverage
Our verdict
Windscribe is one of the few independently owned VPNs on the market, and it’s a viable solution for anyone who wants an affordable provider with the ability to customise your experience. The cheapest Windscribe deals relate to custom plans, allowing the user to pay for a specific location rather than opting for blanket coverage. For instance, you can opt for coverage in the UK, the US or elsewhere.
You’ll be able to pick from roughly 500 RAM-only servers found in 69 countries across every continent. While it might have fewer servers to pick from, it was still able to achieve speeds of 309Mbps while connected to Mac servers. However, Windscribe wasn’t so great when testing performance (7.01) on other devices, so that’s something to be aware of.
Windscribe offers static IPs, port forwarding, split tunnelling and a free version of the app, offering 10GB of data per month. It allows for unlimited device connections, and you’ll also find a customisable server-side domain and IP blocking tool. In other words, it’s a reasonably comprehensive package of features (8.68), though bear in mind that it hasn’t yet been independently audited. Once again, if your main concern is privacy & security (6.73), there are better options.
Windscribe is great for streaming (9.5), while connection speeds are quick enough for most online tasks. That said, average UK server speeds dipped below 100Mbps on iOS and Android devices. As with every cheap VPN to make the list, Windscribe scores well in terms of pricing (7.43), although it loses points because of its shorter refund policy – that’s good for only seven days – and its 10GB limit.
Windscribe is a high-performing, cheap VPN, offering everything from a solid free tier to a transparent business model. The lack of an audit might be off-putting to users who are predominantly focused on privacy, but it’s perfect if you’re in need of an affordable solution that comes with reliable streaming support.
Some of the cheapest VPN subscriptions on the market
Free trial and a free version
Free servers can be used for streaming
Cons
No-log policy yet to be audited
Lowest overall score for privacy & security (5.32), usability (7.78) and features (7.26)
Server countries49
Server locations66
Devices supportedWindows, Mac, iOS, Android, Fire TV Stick and Android TV
Customer supportKnowledge base and submit a request form
Simultaneous connections10
Refund policy30 days
Pricing
Our verdict
PrivadoVPN has quickly established itself as a solid option for anyone in need of low-cost protection. It comes with streaming support as standard, while features (7.26) include an ad blocker, split tunnelling, and access to a SOCKS5 proxy. In terms of performance, average UK server speeds (7.46) of 362Mbps are respectable.
The service only has servers in 49 countries, which means you’ll have to look elsewhere if you’re in need of an IP address from a more obscure location. Even so, Privado is one of the few VPNs to solely use physical servers rather than virtual options that are actually located elsewhere.
A number of budget providers also offer a free tier, and Privado is no exception. Typically, free tiers are used to give consumers a taster, capping speeds and bandwidth or withholding features in an effort to convince users to opt for a paid version of the app. In this instance, the free version of Privado gives the user 10GB of data every 30 days.
Free servers can be used for streaming, which is great when checking the service out for yourself. Privado didn’t work with Sky Go, Now TV, or ITVX during my tests, but it was a decent option in terms of content access (8.5). Privacy & security (5.34) is where PrivadoVPN loses points, even though it’s based in Switzerland, which isn’t the worst location from a jurisdictional perspective. It lacks an audited no-logs policy, which is an area that can do with improvement. The lack of live chat support is another downside, although an average response time of 24 minutes for email queries isn’t the worst result.
PrivadoVPN might not offer as many server locations or simultaneous device connections (10) as some of its competitors, but longer subscription plans are very reasonably priced. It offers a solid level of security with a zero-logs policy and is headquartered in Switzerland.
Access to streaming services: Amazon Prime, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, Now TV, Channel 4, ITV X, Apple TV, Disney Plus and Paramount Plus
Amazon Prime, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, Apple TV, Disney Plus and Paramount Plus
Pricing overall score
8.66
Free trial? Y/N
Y
12-month price
44.85
Privacy & security score
5.32
Audited no-log policy? Y/N
Y
Last logging policy audit date
None publicly disclosed
Usability score
7.78
Features score
7.26
Ad blocker? Y/N
N
Company score
10.0
Customer service score
3.75
How the best cheap VPNs work
Put simply, a VPN works by encrypting all of the traffic that is sent to and from your device while connected. This traffic is sent to a VPN server located elsewhere. Most VPN servers are physical, so they’re found in the same location that the connection is based. Virtual locations are slightly different, in that they’re physically located in a different region. In any case, it’s important to opt for a VPN that takes user privacy seriously.
Only the VPN will have access to your personal data. Even your ISP won’t be able to see the sites and services you visit, which is why it makes sense to stick with a provider that offers an audited no-logs policy.
Cheap VPNs work in the same manner as more expensive providers, but some have been known to cut corners in an effort to make the asking price as low as possible. In recent years, a number of budget VPNs, such as Surfshark, have managed to close the gap on more expensive options, matching up in terms of speeds, streaming and security. Of course, you should be wary of any random cheap VPN, especially as it’ll have access to your traffic while the connection is active.
How to set up a cheap VPN
VPNs tend to be fairly easy to set up, and it often takes a single click to connect after entering your login details. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to take you through the process of setting up any of the best cheap VPNs:
Select one of the providers we’ve mentioned above. Our top cheap VPN recommendation is Surfshark. Otherwise, find an alternative trustworthy affordable provider, and sign up with the service
Download the VPN app(s) to your preferred device(s)
Open the VPN app, and enter your login credentials
Select a preferred server location. Wait to be connected
Enjoy the protection offered by your new VPN
If privacy is your primary concern, it’s a good idea to ensure that the kill switch is enabled. This can often be found in the main app menu or within the settings.
Would you worry about using a cheap VPN over a more expensive one?
Dr Phil Legg, Professor of Cyber Security at UWE
Not necessarily – some reputable providers will offer a free service for personal use only that can be of high quality and service, as their core business model is set up around their enterprise customers, but they understand that security is important to all online. The same rules apply – do they offer a strong level of encryption and do they make clear what they will do with your traffic data? Do they impose some limitations on personal usage? You should read the terms of their service carefully, especially if the service is free so as to understand the provider’s business model, and to ensure that it is clear how your data is being used by the VPN provider.
What to look for when buying a cheap VPN
Many cheap VPNs will be able to get the job done, but the best affordable options offer considerable savings with no real loss when it comes to functionality. The best budget VPNs we’ve listed are great for streaming, but in most instances you’ll have to sign up for at least 12 months to be eligible for the best deals.
If you’re interested in learning more about what to look for when buying a cheap VPN, here are our recommendations:
Speedy servers in a selection of locations: given the manner of the encryption process, VPNs can suffer from slowdown whilst connected. This isn’t as prevalent with pricier options, but it’s often seen at the lower end of the market
A strict logging policy: if you’re aiming for improved privacy, it makes sense to stick with a provider that has a no-logs policy. Independently audited services are preferred, as you won’t have to take any claims at face value
Price and subscription plans: look for a provider with a good price for what it offers. Also, make sure its lump sum is still affordable, and don’t be fooled by the low monthly price of a long plan – most providers will highlight their best and cheapest monthly VPN option and only include the up-front price in smaller print or during checkout
Compatibility: make sure the provider has apps suitable for your chosen devices
Security: check your chosen VPN service has a good level of encryption – ideally AES-256 – and a variety of protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN and IKEv2
Dr Phil Legg, Professor of Cyber Security at UWE
The main thing to consider when looking at VPN providers is whether they offer strong encryption (such as AES-256), and how they will use your data, such as your traffic activity logs when accessing online resources. You want to believe you can trust your VPN provider, since you are allowing your network traffic to go through their server. Also, think about why you want or need a VPN, and what device it is you need to use it on. Some VPNs may be more geared towards offering multiple geo-locations, that may optimise gaming and video streaming usage, whilst others may be specifically for keeping sensitive information within a particular geography. Therefore, a VPN for a laptop or mobile phone may have a different usage to that set up on a gaming or video streaming device.
Things to consider before getting a free VPN
The main reason why downloading a free VPN isn’t a good idea is the simple fact that security is typically not as good as it is with a paid subscription. Most free VPNs fail to include privacy features such as a kill switch, split tunnelling and a range of VPN protocols. They also often restrict monthly data allowances and can only be used on one device at any given time. There’s also a danger that a free VPN service may sell your data to third parties. That said, cheap VPNs allow you to get the best out of a paid plan without breaking the bank.
FAQs about the best cheap VPNs
When you pay for a premium VPN subscription, the fee goes towards maintaining servers, refreshing IP addresses and paying staff. However, there are plenty of cheap VPNs available that offer the same level of security. Free VPNs may not offer a high level of encryption and come with limited data allowance – making cheap VPNs an ideal go-between.
Yes, cheap VPNs are safe provided they have a good level of security. A cheap VPN can still keep you safe online if it has a high level of encryption and conceals your IP address. Most cheap VPNs also use a no-logs policy, but you should try and choose one that has been independently audited.
Certain products or services are subject to price discrimination, and using a VPN to mask your location, personal information, and browsing history can save you money.
For example, airlines and travel booking sites often use dynamic pricing, meaning the advertised prices can change based on factors like your location, browsing habits, and overall demand. By using a VPN to change your IP address, you can make it appear as if you’re browsing from a different country or device, potentially accessing lower prices based on that location.
Avoid any VPN that isn’t transparent. For example, can you tell who owns the provider? Stay away from any random free or cheap services, especially as you’ll be trusting them to take care of your personal information. Take the time to look through the VPN’s privacy policy to see if it collects any important data. If you’re in desperate need of a VPN, our advice is to stick with a trustworthy free tier rather than opting for an unknown service. Many of the providers listed above offer free coverage, albeit with various caps and limitations.
With the increasing need for cybersecurity due to online crimes, a VPN can help prevent such threats. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, masks your IP address and allows you to bypass geo-blocking technology. Using a public wifi network can put you at risk from third parties, but if you’re connected to a VPN, your online safety increases.
VPNs are actually reasonably inexpensive compared to the average piece of software. Monthly subscriptions tend to cost more, but there are significant savings to be found if you opt for a longer plan. The VPNs we’ve listed cost less than a cup of coffee each month and are definitely on the lower end of the pricing scale.
Yes, you’ll be able to use the cheap VPNs listed above for accessing streaming services safely. I’ve tested each VPN with the likes of Netflix and BBC iPlayer, and I can confirm that each provider offers seamless streaming support.
If you only need a cheap VPN for a short period of time, it’s worth noting that the majority of providers on the market expect you to sign up for a minimum of 30 days. Of course, there’s nothing to stop you from taking advantage of a money-back guarantee to get a refund when you’re finished with the VPN.
Disclaimer
The data in this review is reported from a neutral stance and should be used for informational purposes only. We review VPN services from the perspective of:
The quality of the product based on the security and privacy it affords the user
User experience of the application(s)
Connection speeds, and overall performance in terms of reliability
Level and quality of customer service
Independent Advisor strongly recommends that you follow the local laws in your region whilst using a VPN. We do not condone the use of a VPN to bypass copyright restrictions, or to stream content without a valid subscription in your current region. Make sure to comply with any and all applicable laws and regulations whilst using a VPN with streaming services, and any other relevant platforms.
While NordVPN isn’t the cheapest provider on the market, it’s certainly one of the most comprehensive VPNs you can get. With a double VPN, private DNS protection and great speeds, it’s worth paying slightly more for it – though less than £3 per month still won’t break the bank.
Surfshark is our top-rated cheap VPN at less than £2 a month , and it’s also one of our best overall providers thanks to its great value for money and impressive level of security. Its audited no-logs policy, automatic kill switch, and fast VPN connection makes it one of the best of the best services on the market.
ExpressVPN may be one of the most expensive providers we’ve reviewed, but it has all the features you could want: top security, a fast connection, and fantastic geo-unblocking abilities. The only real downside is that better value can be found elsewhere.
James Milin-Ashmore has covered cybersecurity and VPNs since the mid-2010s, writing for industry publications and services such as VPN Mentor, Liquid VPN, Comparitech, Bleeping Computer, ProPrivacy, AlwaysVPN, and more.
With a focus on ethics and digital privacy, his work has been featured in a range of publications, including the Activist Handbook and Reader’s Digest. In his spare time, he’s likely to be watching sports, or taking his dog for a walk around Hertfordshire.
Rafay Baloch isa globally renowned cybersecurity expert and white-hat hacker with a proven track record of identifying critical zero-day security vulnerabilities in numerous web applications, products, and browsers. His discoveries have been instrumental in safeguarding the privacy and security of millions of users worldwide. Baloch has received various accolades, including being named one of the “Top 5 Ethical Hackers of 2014” by Checkmarx, one of the “15 Most Successful Ethical Hackers Worldwide”, and one of the “Top 25 Threat Seekers” by SC Magazine. In addition, Reflectiz listed him among the “Top 21 Cybersecurity Experts You Must Follow on Twitter in 2021”.
Rafay has presented his research at various international cybersecurity conferences, including Black Hat, Hack In Paris, HEXCON, the 10th Information Security Conference in Greece, the CSAW Conference, and many others. He is frequently sought after for his insights and analysis on current cybersecurity topics, appearing in national and international mainstream media outlets such as Forbes, WSJ, BBC, Express Tribune, DAWN, and many others.
Rafay authored the “Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Guide” in 2014. ‘Web Hacking Arsenal: A Practical Guide To Modern Web Pentesting‘ is set to be released in August 2024.
Dr. Phil Legg (MCIIS, FHEA, PhD, BSc) is a Professor of Cyber Security at the University of the West of England (UWE). He is the Co-Director of UWEcyber, a Gold Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Education (ACE-CSE) as recognised by the National Cyber Security Centre, and he is the Programme Leader of the NCSC-certified MSc Cyber Security course at UWE.
He holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning for Higher Education (Distinction), and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA). He has CompTIA PenTest+, Security+ and Microsoft Azure professional certifications. He is recognised as a Full Member of the Chartered Institution of Information Security (MCIIS).
Professor Legg is passionate about outreach and works closely with schools and colleges across the region to upskill in cyber security education, and he is a founding member of CISSEUK – a collaboration network across academia, industry and government to support all levels of cyber security education.
Prior to joining UWE in 2015, he worked at the University of Oxford in collaboration with the Centre for Protection of National Infrastructure as part of the Corporate Insider Threat Detection research programme.
Dr Phil Legg, Professor of Cyber Security at UWE
