ExpressVPN Ownership: Unveiling the True Owners

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Early Days of ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN began its journey in 2009, founded by Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz. The goal was to offer a secure and private internet experience, free from surveillance by corporations, governments, or hackers. From the start, the mission focused on making online privacy accessible to everyone, regardless of technical expertise.

Rapid Growth and Expansion

ExpressVPN quickly grew, amassing over 4 million active subscribers across more than 180 countries. Key features include:

• A secure network of VPN servers in 105 countries
• Apps for all major platforms in 17 languages
• Integrated tools like a VPN, password manager, and ad blocker

Acquisition by Kape Technologies

In September 2021, Kape Technologies acquired ExpressVPN. Despite joining Kape, ExpressVPN assured users it would remain a separate service from other Kape brands.

Leadership Changes and Controversies

New CEO Appointment

In mid-2023, Charles Butler became the new CEO of Kape Technologies, which oversees ExpressVPN. Butler's background in the malware and betting industries raised concerns among cybersecurity experts.

Hostile Takeover and Layoffs

A hostile takeover by Unikmind Holdings Limited in summer 2023 led to mass layoffs, including the departure of the CTO and CPO. Employees criticized the handling of layoffs, with many receiving only a one-month severance package. Koby Menachemi, with a controversial past in malware injection, was appointed COO, further alarming users.

Ethical and Legal Issues

Teddy Sagi, a major shareholder of Kape Technologies, has a history of unresolved issues with the Russian mafia and involvement in bribery and fraud cases in Israel. These factors have raised questions about the company's ethical standards and commitment to user privacy.

Data Collection and Privacy Concerns

Response to Indian Regulations

In April 2022, ExpressVPN moved its India-based servers to Singapore and the UK to avoid complying with new Indian regulations requiring user data collection. This move demonstrated a commitment to user privacy but also highlighted the challenges VPN providers face in balancing regulatory requirements with user trust.

Software Bugs

In February 2024, a bug in ExpressVPN's Windows versions published between May 2022 and February 2024 exposed the domains users visited, particularly those using the split tunneling feature.

Technical Innovations and Security Measures

TrustedServer Technology

In 2019, ExpressVPN introduced TrustedServer technology, running all VPN servers solely on RAM. This setup ensures all information vanishes when the server shuts down, making data recovery impossible.

Lightway Protocol

In 2020, ExpressVPN launched Lightway, an open-source VPN protocol similar to WireGuard but using wolfSSL encryption. Lightway is 2.5 times faster than older protocols like OpenVPN, with a 40% improvement in reliability, supporting both TCP and UDP.

Digital Security Research Initiative

ExpressVPN's Digital Security Lab, launched in 2020, investigates digital rights and security issues while educating consumers. Notable studies include:

• Data collection practices in apps for opioid addiction and recovery
• Generation Z’s mental health, finding 86% of participants perceived social media as impacting their happiness

Final Thoughts

ExpressVPN's ownership changes have raised concerns about user privacy and security. Leadership changes, ethical issues, and data collection practices have eroded user trust. Despite these challenges, ExpressVPN continues to innovate with TrustedServer technology and the Lightway protocol. Users must remain vigilant and conduct thorough research before committing to any VPN service, ensuring transparency and accountability from companies claiming to protect online rights and freedoms.