Opera Software has acquired SurfEasy Inc., a Toronto-based company that provides a VPN solution for protecting customers' online privacy and security on smartphones, tablets and computers. A VPN or "virtual private network" provides an added layer of internet security by encrypting all internet traffic sent to and from your device.

In short, SurfEasy's solutions secure public Wi-Fi, protect users' online identities and unlock websites, giving users online freedom to surf the web without restrictions, from anywhere in the world.

"More and more internet users are starting to question whether they can trust the internet these days, and are actively looking for secure solutions for their phone or computer," said Lars Boilesen, CEO, Opera Software.

"Privacy and security has always been top of mind for Opera's users, making the acquisition of SurfEasy a seamless fit. Opera has evolved beyond our browser roots and this step will add a critical building block towards a broader portfolio of applications," he continued.