Does VPN stop spying?

I'm curious to know, does VPN truly stop spying? In today's digital age, privacy concerns are at an all-time high, and with the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, it's natural to seek protection. But can a VPN truly shield our online activities from prying eyes? Is it a foolproof solution, or does it have its limitations? I'd like to understand the mechanisms behind how a VPN works, and whether it's enough to keep our data SAFE from snooping. Can you provide me with a comprehensive answer, addressing both the benefits and potential drawbacks of using a VPN for privacy protection?