Can using a VPN prevent my ISP from seeing data usage in 4G internet?

I have 4G Internet USB and I was wondering if using a VPN will prevent my ISP from seeing the quota usage.

I know that using a VPN on a cable internet won't achieve this because the switches of the ISP counts every byte sent and received through my cable.

But what about 4G internet?

NOTE: I am not talking about preventing my ISP from seeing my internet activity, but I mean prevent my ISP from counting the bytes I send and receive.

Can using a VPN prevent my ISP from seeing data usage in 4G internet?


The VPN encrypts your traffic, but the amount of information that is sent and received will stay the same. This is not affected by the fact that you are on a mobile connection.

Depending on the encryption protocol that is used, it might even increase your data usage, but only by a (very) small margin.

In short: No, a VPN can never hide your data throughput, because the data still has to get to and from your phone. And on its way, it goes through your ISPs infrastructure, which you are paying for.

If you are concerned about privacy, using a VPN is useful regardless. But be aware that some VPN providers collect data about your behavior or will significantly slow your connection and increase latency - especially free providers.