Olivia joined Tom's Guide in October 2023 as part of the core Future Tech Software team, and is the Commissioning Editor at Tom's Guide. With a background in cybersecurity, Olivia is interested in how VPNs protect users' privacy, and how they improve online safety. She also regularly uses VPNs to make sure they deliver what they promise, and specializes in testing VPNs with streaming sites.
After graduating with a degree in English Literature from the University of Exeter, Olivia got her official start in journalism writing magazines for the events industry, writing for Exhibition News, Conference News, All Access, Exhibition World and Conference and Meeting World both in print and online. After this, she delved into the world of customer experience at CX Network, then the cybersecurity sector when she became Editor in Chief for Cyber Security Hub. This saw her create content from webinars to blogs to research reports on all things cybersecurity before finally ending up at Tom's Guide.
Olivia was also shortlisted for Security Serious' Unsung Heroes award in the Cyber Writer category in 2023.
When not writing about the latest in tech software, Olivia can be found reading mystery novels, watching the X-Files or doing valuable research in her quest to find the best Italian restaurant in London.
Latest articles by Olivia Powell

Best Windows VPN for PC in 2026
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
VPN We've tested dozens of VPNs and evaluated their ease of use, speed, streaming support and privacy and security to determine the top 5 best Windows VPNs.

The fastest VPN services in 2026
By Olivia Powell last updated
We've tested dozens of VPNs to determine the top 5 fastest VPNs, including Proton VPN, Norton VPN and Surfshark

Proton VPN wrapped – what were its highlights of 2025?
By Krishi Chowdhary published
Explore Proton VPN’s biggest developments of 2025, from a no-logs audit and new feature rollouts to a major UI redesign plus privacy and usability upgrades.

From misinformation to AI-powered cyberattacks – the top cybersecurity risks for 2026
By Aleksandar Stevanović published
Cyber threats are evolving fast. From AI attacks to quantum risks, here are the top cybersecurity dangers everyday users should watch out for in 2026.

How to protect your home network from your relatives’ bad tech habits
By Aleksandar Stevanović published
Don't let holiday visitors put your network at risk. Learn how to use guest Wi-Fi and a router VPN to keep your digital life safe.

The best hidden Netflix gems you can only watch with a VPN
By Alice Marshall published
Your subscription just got even better. Connect to a VPN and discover some of the best hidden gems on Netflix from libraries around the world.

NordVPN's biggest updates of 2025
By Krishi Chowdhary published
Explore NordVPN’s biggest developments of 2025, from privacy and security audits to new features, apps, and platform upgrades.

What is the VPN Trust Initiative, and why is it important?
By Tyler Geis published
Everything you need to know about the VPN Trust Initiative, the industry-led consortium, from its goals to its members

5G vs. public Wi-Fi – is it safer to just use your data in 2026?
By Zoran Danilovic published
We explore whether it's safer to use 5G or public Wi-Fi, when you should use either, and how to keep safe when using them

Use this tool on parents' devices so you can quit being tech support
By Kristin Hassel published
Get NordVPN Plus and help protect your parents’ devices with Threat Protection Pro, an all-in-one software suite of easy-to-use cybersecurity tools.

We asked 3 VPN experts for their 2026 predictions – here's what they said
By George Phillips published
We asked 3 VPN experts for their 2026 VPN predictions. From increased censorship to innovative products, here's what they said.

Many VPNs offer dedicated IP – but is it really worth your money?
By Hailey Hudson published
Everything you need to know about dedicated IP, from what it is to whether or not you should be using it

Abroad for the holidays? Make sure you don't miss out on your favorite shows by using a VPN
By Krishi Chowdhary published
Traveling abroad for the holidays? Use a VPN to bypass geo-blocks, stay secure on public Wi-Fi, and stream your favorite shows anywhere.

Only Santa should know whether you've been naughty or nice
By Aleksandar Stevanović published
Want to keep your online activity private this festive season? Here's how a VPN can stop your ISP, government, or even Santa from snooping.

5 ways to prepare for your kid's first phone before wrapping it
By Kristin Hassel published
From parental controls to setting limits, these are the top 5 ways to protect your child on their new phone

Top scams to look out for over the holiday period – don't let the Grinch grab your data
By Krishi Chowdhary published
Holiday scams surge every year. Learn how to spot fake deals, phishing attempts, and other common scams, with practical tips to stay safe online.

Revolut Mobile and NordVPN team up for UK launch – unlimited data for just £12.50 per month
By Aleksandar Stevanović published
Revolut Mobile now includes a free NordVPN subscription, unlimited 5G, and 20GB of EU/US roaming data in its early-bird plan

Obscura VPN passes first independent audit
By Aleksandar Stevanović published
Obscura VPN has cleared its first independent security audit, with no major flaws found in its macOS app or core protocol

How to cancel NordVPN and get a refund
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
Many VPNs offer a 30-day refund period, but how do you actually cancel NordVPN? Here, we explain everything you need to know.

How to cancel Private Internet Access and get a refund
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
In this guide, I'll explain the simplest way to cancel your PIA subscription and receive a refund.

How to cancel Surfshark and get a refund
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
Surfshark's 30-day refund period allows you to try it out risk-free before committing. Here's how you can cancel your Surfshark subscription.

How to cancel Proton VPN and get a refund
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
Proton VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you can get a full refund if you cancel in time. This guide will explain how to cancel and request a refund from Proton VPN.

How to cancel ExpressVPN and get a refund
By Krishi Chowdhary last updated
In this guide, I'll outline the steps to cancel your ExpressVPN subscription and request a full refund.
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