Pros and Cons of Proxy Servers

Proxy servers have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages, both of which should be understood before using any particular proxy. Using a proxy server list does not need to be risky, but in some cases it can be.

The main disadvantage of a proxy server is that, since you are using it as a gateway to the internet, it may record personal information such as passwords, usernames, etc.

While this is not typical of most proxies, some proxies can be designed to do this. For this reason, it is important to trust the proxy server that you are using, or to avoid sending personal information of any kind that is extremely sensitive through any public proxy server.

Information like usernames and passwords should only be used on a proxy server if you absolutely trust the source of the proxy.

Information such as a social security number, credit card numbers, or other personal information should NEVER be sent over a proxy server at all. This type of information should only be sent using a completely secure internet connection.

Another disadvantage of a proxy server is that it may block you from sites that it deems “inappropriate”. This is more of a nuisance than a real problem, but it is still something to consider.

Also, some websites will actually block certain proxy server activity if the proxy has been used by spammers or trollers. 

The main advantage of a proxy server is that it allows you to remain basically anonymous as you surf the website.

It is substantially harder for someone to find out who you are if you are behind a proxy server, as opposed to using your own internet connection.

As you can see, proxy servers have plenty of advantages and disadvantages!