
George Phillips
George is a Staff Writer at Tom's Guide, covering VPN, privacy, and cybersecurity news. He is especially interested in digital rights and censorship, and its interplay with politics. He has long been a trade union activist and political campaigner, so channels this experience into his work surrounding internet censorship and privacy and is well aware of the dangers posed to individual's internet freedoms.
George constantly uses VPNs on all of his devices, very rarely turning them off. He is always aware of his personal data and how he, and VPNs, can protect it.
Before joining Tom's Guide, he completed an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and has experience writing and producing content for music, education, and wellbeing publications. As well as writing, George is a keen podcast and audio producer.
Outside of work, George is passionate about music, regularly attending gigs, collecting vinyl, and playing guitar. George is also a huge Star Wars fan and holds a 3rd Dan black belt in Shotokan Karate.
Latest articles by George Phillips

We asked 4 VPN experts which VPNs they use – and the results surprised us
By George Phillips published
Here at Tom's Guide, the VPN team spend all day writing about VPNs. But which providers do we actually use? The team shares their favourite VPNs and why they like them.

Is Hide.me Free actually worth using?
By George Phillips published
Hide.me Free is a reputable and secure free VPN. But is it usable, and how does it compare to the best free VPNs? Read on to hear our verdict.

NordVPN is handing out $50 gift cards to spend on Amazon Prime Day – here's how to get yours
By George Phillips last updated
Receive up to $50 in free Amazon gift cards thanks to NordVPN's limited time deal. Read on to see how to sign up and what plans are on offer.

Surfshark launches Surfshark Everlink to bring you uninterrupted VPN connections
By George Phillips published
Surfshark Everlink is an industry-first and promises to improve VPN connections. You'll always stay online and your data will never be exposed.

IPVanish becomes the United Rugby Championship's official VPN partner
By George Phillips published
IPVanish is highlighting the importance of cybersecurity in the world of professional rugby as it becomes the United Rugby Championship's official VPN partner.

Streaming giants become the latest group to target VPNs in a bid to combat piracy
By George Phillips published
VPNs are increasingly being singled out and blamed for facilitating piracy. The MPA has become the latest to target VPNs and call for streaming site blocking.

Privacy providers clash over controversial proposals to change Swiss encryption law
By George Phillips last updated
Infomaniak has clashed with Proton as the two companies disagree over approaches to Switzerland's controversial proposed surveillance law change.

NordVPN achieves excellent results in latest security and performance evaluation
By George Phillips published
NordVPN has achieved overwhelmingly positive results in an independent performance and security assessment. Here's everything you need to know.

Can you use a VPN with the Nintendo Switch 2?
By George Phillips published
Are you wondering if you can protect your new Nintendo Switch 2 with a VPN? The answer is yes you can, but it's not the easiest task.

Think you have nothing to hide? A VPN might still be useful
By George Phillips published
45% of Tom's Guide readers don't use a VPN. We investigate the reasons why and address any concerns. Could a VPN be for you?

VPNs ordered to block illegal streaming sites in France – but how would this work?
By George Phillips published
A legal victory by Canal+ means leading VPN providers have been ordered to block illegal sports streaming sites. But how would this work, and who could be affected?

Surfshark launches long-awaited 7-day free trial – try the best streaming VPN for free
By George Phillips published
Want to try one of the best VPNs for free? First-time Surfshark users can now grab one week of VPN protection for free and try out everything it has to offer.

Vietnam blocks Telegram for failing to comply with new data law
By George Phillips published
Vietnam's government has ordered the blocking of Telegram. It accused the app of not complying with criminal investigations and a VPN is now needed to use the app

ExpressVPN's Aircove update brings faster speeds and UI improvements
By George Phillips published
The update is available now for Aircove and Aircove Go

ExpressVPN has significantly redesigned its mobile apps – here's what's new
By George Phillips published
ExpressVPN has redesigned its mobile app UI, making it easier to get connected and access features. Here's what you need to know.

Travel securely this Memorial Day with a free eSIM from NordVPN
By George Phillips last updated
If you're travelling this Memorial Day, protecting your data is a must. There's at least 70% off all two year NordVPN plans, an extra three months of protection, plus a free Saily eSIM.

How to watch overseas content with a VPN
By Olivia Powell last updated
vpn If geo-blocking is preventing you from watching your favorite shows, learn how to use a VPN to watch content from overseas.

Proton VPN drops to its lowest ever price – get it while you can
By George Phillips published
Proton VPN has dropped to its lowest ever price. If privacy is your number one concern, Proton VPN is a great choice. It's $2.99 per month, but won't be for long.

These top VPNs are on sale this Memorial Day weekend – let's round up some great deals
By George Phillips published
Celebrate Memorial Day 2025 with some great VPN deals. Here's a round-up of the best ones out there.

Securely download Mullvad VPN with its new loader application
By George Phillips published
Windows and Mac users can now securely download and automatically verify Mullvad VPN thanks to its newly launched loader application.

NordVPN announces post-quantum encryption support for all applications
By George Phillips published
NordVPN is one of the only providers to offer post-quantum encryption protection for all your devices. Here's what you need to know.

Proton VPN boss compares Switzerland to Russia and claims it could leave the country over proposed law
By George Phillips published
Changes to Swiss law could see Proton leave the country. CEO Andy Yen made the statement in an interview and compared the country to Russia.

Top VPNs dealt major blow in France as Canal+ wins anti-piracy case
By George Phillips published
Leading VPN providers have been ordered to block access to illegal streaming sites as Canal+ wins its anti-piracy case. However, the move could have dangerous consequences for internet privacy.
Sign up to get the BEST of Tom's Guide direct to your inbox.
Here at Tom’s Guide our expert editors are committed to bringing you the best news, reviews and guides to help you stay informed and ahead of the curve!