Top VPN apps on Google Play and Apple App Store and what that means for your privacy.

" A breakdown of who owns the top VPN apps on Google Play and Apple App Store. Around the world VPN apps are surging up the store charts. But who owns the companies behind them? "

Many belong to the same handful of players who could raise serious questions about consolidation, trust, and data ownership.

Top VPN Apps & Their Real Owners

If you are interested, see above picture showing where these providers are based or have operations.
If you are interested, here is a breakdown of the parent companies which own them:
- ExpressVPN, CyberGhost VPN, Private Internet Access (PIA),
- ZenMate VPN are owned by Kape Technologies
- NordVPN, Surfshark is owned by Nord Security (Lithuania)
- Proton VPN is operated by freelance privacy org Proton AG (Switzerland) 
- Hotspot Shield is run by AnchorFree, Inc. headquartered in California. 

Market Power, But Fuzzy Transparency

At least 105 VPN services are controlled by just 24 parent companies. Kape Technologies owns multiple high‑traffic apps, including ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, PIA, and ZenMate. NordVPN and Surfshark operate under the same corporate umbrella — Nord Security — though they run separate brands.  

Why Ownership Matters

When you trust a VPN for privacy, knowing who owns it matters. Kape was once Crossrider, an ad‑tech business criticised for pushing toolbars and bundling software ExpressVPN is technically incorporated in the British Virgin Islands for legal privacy protection—but its parent company is privately owned by Teddy Sagi via Kape/control structure.  

UK Surge: VPNs at the Top of App Stores

Following the UK government’s Online Safety Act rollout, VPN sign‑ups exploded  Proton VPN rose 1800% in one day, ranking #1 among free apps in App Stores NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and free apps like Turbo VPN also spiked  But experts warn: many free VPNs lack independent audits and may log or sell user data  

And Now What? How to Stay Smart About VPNs

Check who actually owns the app you download — and what their history is 
You may prefer independently audited no‑logs providers like Proton VPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark.
You might want to be cautious of free VPNs or apps tied back to sanctioned entities (like Turbo VPN linked to Qihoo 360).
Read transparency reports or audit disclosures — they’re the best current proxy for trust. 
Use VPNs as part of a broader privacy toolkit, not a magic shield. Combine with encrypted messaging and secure browsers for better results. 

For many of us, the horse has already bolted. But it is not too late. Although, your data has crossed more hands than your phone charger, you can start now.

You can control who’s holding it!