Google Play's version of VPN allows private 'Guest' use, so why does FOSS version on F-Droid demand email address?! - eviltoast

I downloaded ProtonVPN (5.5.68.0) a few months ago via the Google Play Store and have been happily using it ‘anonymously’ as a Guest with no problem. I recently purchased a new Android device and this time I chose to download the same VPN (5.5.68.0) via F-Droid to maintain some privacy. However, there appears to be no option in the FOSS version of the app to use Proton VPN as a guest - I am told I have to sign-up with an actual email address.

For a company claiming they are “Empowering you to choose a better internet where privacy is the default. Protect yourself online with… Proton VPN” (look to the right of this page), this decision astounds me. Assuming the error is not on my part, why is the purported FOSS version on F-Droid forcing users to give identifiable information (even if it’s only an email address and password), but the Google Android version does not?

  • protonvpn@lemmy.worldOP
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    2 months ago

    I see. So they stole my device’s Android email address? Very disappointing. Thank you for the help.

      • protonvpn@lemmy.worldOP
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        1 month ago

        You are right. Guess I expected more from a privacy advocate. Can’t even create an account with a Tuta email address, to silo my VPN activity from my Proton ID and usage.