Using a VPN (like Proton VPN) is a great way to protect your online privacy. However, because a VPN routes your internet traffic through its own servers, it can sometimes interfere with an app's ability to connect and sync your data correctly.
If you are using a VPN and notice any of the following issues, this guide can help you resolve them:
Habits or check-ins are not syncing between your phone and desktop/web app.
The app seems slow, or check-ins take a long time to save.
You see an "Offline," "No Connection," or "Syncing Error" message, even when your internet is working.
There are ways to fix these problems. Follow these steps to diagnose and solve the issue.
Confirm the VPN is the Cause
This first step will quickly tell you if the VPN is responsible for the problem.
Temporarily disable your VPN service.
Completely close and then restart our app.
Try to use the app normally (e.g., check off a habit).
If your data now syncs correctly, you've confirmed the VPN is interfering. Please re-enable your VPN and proceed to the next steps to find a long-term solution.
If the problem persists even with the VPN turned off, the issue is likely unrelated. Please contact our support team for further assistance.
Change Your VPN Server Location
Sometimes the issue is with the specific server you are connected to. An easy fix is to simply try a different one.
Open your VPN application (e.g., Proton VPN).
Disconnect from your current server.
Connect to a different server location. Connecting to a server geographically closer to you often works best.
Open our app again to see if the syncing issue is resolved.
Use "Split Tunneling"
The best solution for seamless, long-term use is "split tunneling." This feature allows you to select which apps use the VPN and which apps connect directly to the internet. This gives you the best of both worlds: reliable syncing for our app and privacy protection for everything else.
Open your VPN app's Settings menu.
Look for a feature named "Split Tunneling," "Bypasser," or "App Exclusions". (In Proton VPN, this feature is available on Windows and Android).
Follow the instructions to exclude our app from the VPN tunnel.
Restart our app. It should now connect directly and sync without any issues.
Other Potential Issues with VPNs
While syncing is the most common issue, a VPN can also affect other parts of the app:
In-App Purchases: We strongly recommend temporarily disabling your VPN before making any purchases or restoring a subscription. This ensures the transaction can be processed correctly by the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Location-Based Features: Any features that rely on your physical location (e.g., location-based reminders) will not work correctly when a VPN is active, as the VPN intentionally masks your true location.
If you have followed these steps and are still experiencing issues, please don't hesitate to contact our support team for further help.