commoner - Thank you for this comment, and I think it's definitely fair to trust in Mullvad given these transparencies. The sequence of events are simply peculiar to me, and doesn't seem like a professional police operation. That said, I've been keenly watching Mullvad and agree with you that it's rock-solid in transparency which is the number one reason to use/not use a VPN service, if for privacy.

I salute Mullvad and consider it to be the top VPN in the world today, and specifically, the only one I would recommend to anyone looking for a VPN.

In terms of PIA, I am no longer affiliated with the company, but I agree that getting the source out for the clients out on time is something they should try to address quickly.

gerbilly (another poster in parallel) - In 2023, I don't think a VPN is not private, but, for sure this cannot be the only tool in one's arsenal to secure their privacy. Depending on your threat-levels, there are different things you may want to do. To be clear, if you're being targeted, you cannot maintain privacy.

For the absolutist:

1. Get cash but not from an ATM (traceable)

2. Go buy a computer (must be Purism or something with trustworthy hardware) with said cash but wear a disguise when buying it. Disable all the location/etc. stuff at store parking lot.

3. Purchase a T-Mobile Prepaid Hotspot with cash.

4. Purchase mullvad, but wear gloves, mask and a hairnet when working with the envelope to send cash.

5. Never login to any service of any kind that would leak your identity.

For everyone else:

1. Assume you're not private.