Opera Software, the company behind the web browser of much the same name, has acquired SurfEasy, a provider of VPN security. SurfEasy's software bolsters the security of internet users by adding a layer of encryption that helps to protect privacy.
More than this, the software also makes it possible to bypass some online restrictions and to access sites that are region locked. Few details have been revealed yet, but it's possible we could see VPN features integrated into future versions of the desktop and mobile Opera browser.
SurfEasy's aim for the last four years has been to place internet users back in control of their privacy and online freedom. With increased prevalence of spyware, coupled with the surveillance activities of the NSA and GCHQ, security and privacy have been thrust into the public consciousness in recent years.
SurfEasy founder and CEO Chris Houston said:
Over the past few years the dialogue and awareness around online privacy issues has increased dramatically. We are all now very aware just how vulnerable our data is to hacking, monitoring and censorship, regardless of the network or device you’re using to access the web.
Opera CEO Lars Boilesen says that SurfEasy is a neat fit with the Opera philosophy. "Opera has evolved beyond our browser roots and this step will add a critical building block towards a broader portfolio of applications".