ExpressVPN users in the US now have access to a new suite of personal digital protection tools called Identity Defender. This suite includes features such as Data Removal, ID Alerts, and ID Theft Insurance, all aimed at helping users defend against and respond to online threats. The Data Removal tool automatically scans the internet for personal information and submits removal requests to data brokers on behalf of the user. It also monitors the sites to ensure that the information stays removed. ID Alerts provides continuous monitoring for suspicious activity, while ID Theft Insurance offers coverage for eligible expenses related to fraud and identity theft, up to $1 million per year.
The Identity Defender features are currently available only to US-based ExpressVPN users on iOS and Android devices, with plans for desktop apps in the future. However, there is no timeline for when these features will be accessible to users outside of the US. While these new tools offer added protection for online data, they come with a hefty price increase for longer-term subscribers. The base monthly plan remains at $13 per month, but adding ID Theft Insurance and Data Removal raises the price to $29 per month for the full suite of features. The yearly plan starts at $100 for the first year and increases to $150 for subsequent years, or $166 with the Data Removal feature. The two-year subscription plan costs $150 for the first two years but rises to $250 per year thereafter.
Despite the price hike, ExpressVPN remains a top-rated VPN with CNET’s Editors’ Choice designation. The company has introduced several improvements and innovations in recent years, including the Identity Defender suite. However, some users may prefer a tiered subscription model like those offered by competitors NordVPN and Surfshark, which allow customers to choose the level of protection they want at varying price points. Existing long-term subscribers of ExpressVPN will be automatically renewed at the higher prices, as stated in the terms and conditions. While the Identity Defender features are valuable, some users may find the bundle pricing to be too steep, especially if they do not require all of the included features.
In conclusion, ExpressVPN’s new Identity Defender suite offers comprehensive digital protection tools for users in the US, including Data Removal, ID Alerts, and ID Theft Insurance. While these features can be beneficial for enhancing online security, the significant price increase for longer-term subscribers may deter some customers. The base monthly plan starts at $13, but adding all three Identity Defender features raises the price to $29 per month. Despite the higher cost, ExpressVPN remains a reliable option for those seeking a robust VPN solution. It is important for users to weigh the benefits of the Identity Defender suite against the additional cost to determine if it is a worthwhile investment for their digital security needs.
