Why I still pay for a VPN even though free ones are everywhere

Sometimes, I’m surprised how often VPNs (virtual private networks) turn up in online reporting, considering how rarely I hear people talk about them elsewhere. But I suppose I shouldn’t be. Some VPN companies are very aggressive about their marketing, peppering podcasts and YouTube videos with sponsorships. And now, companies like Apple are offering VPNs (or VPN-like features, anyway) as service perks, taking it for granted that you understand the benefits.