diff --git a/bumblebee_status/modules/contrib/vpn.py b/bumblebee_status/modules/contrib/vpn.py
index ae8e748..3381e4f 100644
--- a/bumblebee_status/modules/contrib/vpn.py
+++ b/bumblebee_status/modules/contrib/vpn.py
@@ -1,4 +1,5 @@
 # pylint: disable=C0111,R0903
+# -*- coding: utf-8 -*-
 
 """ Displays the VPN profile that is currently in use.
 
@@ -68,7 +69,7 @@ class Module(core.module.Module):
 
     def vpn_status(self, widget):
         if self.__connected_vpn_profile is None:
-            return "off"
+            return ""
         return self.__connected_vpn_profile
 
     def __on_vpndisconnect(self):