💡 Up-to-Date. Trusted. Free.
All tools listed on this page are ones I personally use. The list is regularly updated – and if you know a great privacy tool that’s missing, feel free to share it with me via the contact form!
🌐 Secure Browsers – Alternatives to Chrome & Edge
Your browser is your gateway to the internet – but also a prime target for trackers and data collectors. Mainstream browsers like Chrome, Edge, or Safari collect large amounts of user data. These privacy-focused browsers protect your privacy without compromising usability.
Criteria for privacy-friendly browsers:
- No telemetry or data collection sent to the developer
- Built-in tracking protection and ad blocking
- Regular security updates
- Open source for full transparency
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→ Visit Website
🦊 Mozilla Firefox – The Privacy Champion
Firefox is the last major independent browser developer and actively fights for user privacy. With Enhanced Tracking Protection, Firefox automatically blocks over 2,000 known trackers. Developed by the non-profit Mozilla Foundation, Firefox is fully transparent and free from commercial data interests. Supports all major browser extensions and offers Firefox Sync for secure cross-device syncing.
🛡️ Enhanced Tracking Protection 🔓 Open Source Browser 🧩 Extensible via Add-ons -
→ Visit Website
🧅 Tor Browser – Maximum Anonymity
The Tor Browser is the gold standard for anonymous web browsing. Your connection is routed through the Tor network via three relays, hiding your IP address and location completely. Ideal for investigative journalism, political activism, or anyone seeking maximum privacy. Based on Firefox, it automatically blocks all trackers, cookies, and third-party JavaScript.
🕵️♂️ Anonymous Internet Use 🚫 Automatic Tracker Blocking 🔄 Rotating IP Addresses -
→ Visit Website
🦁 Brave Browser – Privacy by Default
Brave is a Chromium-based browser that combines privacy and performance. The built-in Brave Shields ad blocker not only blocks ads, but also trackers, malware, and cryptomining scripts. This leads to pages loading up to 3x faster and reduced battery usage. Its unique Brave Rewards system lets you support your favorite websites anonymously. Fully compatible with Chrome extensions.
🛡️ Blocks Ads and Trackers ⚡ Fast and Resource-Efficient 🔐 Strong Privacy Focus
🧩 Privacy Extensions – Protection for Any Browser
Even with the best browser, you're not automatically protected against trackers and fingerprinting. These browser extensions boost your privacy with targeted features – from ad blocking to fingerprint protection and script control. Ideal for Firefox, Brave, or Chromium-based browsers.
Recommended extensions for better privacy:
- Reliably blocks ads and tracking scripts
- Prevents browser fingerprinting and canvas data leaks
- Open-source and independently developed
- Easy to use and regularly updated
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→ Visit Website
🛡️ uBlock Origin – The Classic Ad Blocker
uBlock Origin is a lightweight yet powerful content blocker. It blocks not only ads, but also trackers, malware domains, and many other unwanted elements. With its extensive filter lists, your browsing stays clean and fast – no intrusive ads, no hidden scripts.
🚫 Effective Ad Protection ⚡️ Saves System Resources 🔓 Open Source & Audited -
→ Visit Website
✨ uBlock Origin Lite – Lightweight Protection for Chromium
uBlock Origin Lite is a minimalist version of uBlock, optimized for Chrome’s Manifest V3. No complicated settings – just install and enjoy instant protection. Perfect for users looking for a simple, effective solution without performance overhead.
🚫 Efficient Ad Blocking ⚡️ Very Lightweight 🔓 Open Source & Transparent -
→ Visit Website
🖼️ CanvasBlocker – Fingerprinting Protection
CanvasBlocker prevents websites from reading HTML5 canvas elements, a common method for generating unique browser fingerprints. It modifies the return values of specific API calls to make canvas fingerprinting unreliable. Ideal for privacy-conscious and investigative users.
🛡️ Blocks Canvas Fingerprinting ⚙️ Customizable Options 🔓 Open Source & Transparent
📱 Secure Messengers – Private Chats Without Data Leaks
Popular messengers like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Telegram often compromise your privacy. Metadata, contacts, and messages are frequently stored or analyzed on central servers. These alternatives offer true end-to-end encryption, more control, and real respect for your data – without sacrificing convenience.
What makes a privacy-friendly messenger:
- End-to-end encryption for messages and calls
- No centralized data collection or ad funding
- Open-source code or independent security audits
- Fully functional apps across all platforms
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→ Visit Website
🔐 Signal – The Gold Standard for Secure Communication
Signal is a fully encrypted messenger that stores no metadata and uses no ads or tracking. Developed by a non-profit foundation and recommended by privacy experts worldwide. Supports text, voice and video calls, and group chats – all end-to-end encrypted. Available for iOS, Android, and desktop.
🔐 End-to-End Encryption 📞 Voice & Video Calls 🛡️ Open Source & Privacy-Respecting -
→ Visit Website
🌐 Element (Matrix) – Decentralized Messaging with Full Control
Element is a messenger based on the Matrix protocol – open, decentralized, and standardized. Users can host their own servers or use public ones. Great for companies, communities, or power users who want full data ownership. Offers end-to-end encryption, group chats, voice/video calls, and integrations with other platforms.
🔒 End-to-End Encryption 💬 Decentralized Chat Platform 🛠️ Open Source & Customizable -
→ Visit Website
🟢 Threema – Swiss Privacy Without a Phone Number
Threema is a secure Swiss messenger that requires no personal data to use – no phone number, no email address. Messages are fully end-to-end encrypted. The app is open source and hosted entirely in Europe. Perfect for privacy-conscious users, organizations, and public institutions.
🔐 End-to-End Encryption 🆔 Use Without an Account 🛡️ Swiss Data Protection
✉️ Private Email Services – Secure Communication Without Google
Most free email providers like Gmail, Outlook, or Yahoo rely on advertising – often powered by analyzing your messages. Privacy-focused email services, on the other hand, offer end-to-end encryption, are based in privacy-friendly countries, and run without ads. Your communication belongs to you – not to big tech companies.
Key features of secure email providers:
- End-to-end encryption and secure data transmission
- Servers located in privacy-friendly countries (e.g. Switzerland, Germany)
- No advertising or automated content scanning
- Open-source technology or transparent security architecture
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→ Visit Website
🛡️ Proton Mail – The Leading Secure Email Provider*
Proton Mail is a Swiss-based email provider offering strong end-to-end encryption and a zero-access architecture. Developed by scientists from CERN, Proton Mail includes apps for web, iOS, and Android – plus calendar and drive features. Ideal for users who want top-level security with modern usability.
🔐 End-to-End Encryption 🇨🇭 Servers in Switzerland 🔓 Open Source & Ad-Free -
→ Visit Website
🔒 Tuta Mail – Privacy Made in Germany*
Tuta Mail (formerly Tutanota) is a fully encrypted email service from Germany. Everything is encrypted – including subject lines, attachments, and calendar. The platform is ad-free, open source, and doesn't store IP addresses. A great choice for anyone seeking uncompromising privacy.
🔐 End-to-End Encryption 🇩🇪 Servers in Germany 🔓 Open Source & Ad-Free -
→ Visit Website
📬 mailbox.org – A Professional Choice for Privacy Advocates
mailbox.org is a full-featured email service based in Germany, built for both individuals and organizations. In addition to email, it includes calendar, cloud storage, and office tools. With strong PGP encryption, independent infrastructure, and a focus on sustainability, mailbox.org is a powerful alternative to Big Tech.
🛠️ PGP Encryption 🇩🇪 Servers in Germany 📁 Cloud & Calendar Included
🛡️ VPN Services – Browse Securely and Stay Invisible Online
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) protects your internet connection from prying eyes – whether from your ISP, public Wi-Fi, or government surveillance. A good VPN encrypts your entire traffic, hides your IP address, and helps you bypass censorship. But not all providers are trustworthy – here are three of the most reputable ones.
What matters when choosing a trustworthy VPN:
- No logs or activity tracking
- Strong encryption and modern protocols
- Transparent company structure & location in privacy-friendly countries
- Open-source clients or independent security audits
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→ Visit Website
🛡️ Proton VPN – Swiss Security You Can Trust*
Proton VPN is operated by the same experts behind Proton Mail and offers a high level of privacy, thanks to its strict no-logs policy and Swiss jurisdiction. The apps are open source and independently audited. Proton VPN also offers a free plan with no data limits – perfect for beginners with strong privacy needs.
🔐 Strong encryption & no logs 🇨🇭 Based in Switzerland ✅ Free version available -
→ Visit Website
🌊 Surfshark – Feature-Rich & Affordable*
Surfshark is a powerful VPN provider with servers in over 100 countries. Notable features include MultiHop mode for extra security and unlimited devices per subscription. Despite its commercial model, Surfshark strictly avoids logging and offers useful extras like ad blocking, camouflage mode, and anti-tracking tools.
🔒 No logs & strong security 🧰 MultiHop & Camouflage Mode 📱 Unlimited devices -
→ Visit Website
🕵️ Mullvad – No Account, Maximum Anonymity
Mullvad, based in Sweden, is known as one of the most transparent VPN providers worldwide. No user account is needed – you pay anonymously via code or cash. The software is open source and regularly audited. Mullvad stores no user data and makes no compromises when it comes to anonymity. A favorite among tech experts and journalists.
💶 Flat rate: €5/month 🆔 No account required 🔓 Open Source & Audited
🔑 Password Managers – Strong Passwords, Securely Stored
A strong password is unique, long, and random – but who can remember them all? Password managers solve this problem by securely storing your credentials encrypted and filling them in automatically. This protects you effectively against phishing, data leaks, and weak passwords. Here are three especially trustworthy solutions.
What makes a secure password manager:
- End-to-end encryption of stored data
- Open-source code or transparent architecture
- Multi-platform support (desktop, mobile, browser)
- Two-factor authentication & secure sync
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→ Visit Website
🛠️ Bitwarden – The Open-Source Allrounder
Bitwarden is a popular open-source password manager with cloud sync. It securely encrypts your credentials and supports all platforms. With built-in 2FA, password generator, team organizations, and an audit-reviewed security model, Bitwarden is ideal for private users and businesses alike.
✅ Free to use 🔓 Open source security 🔐 End-to-end encryption -
→ Visit Website
💾 KeePassXC – Offline & Fully Under Your Control
KeePassXC is a local password manager that stores your data in encrypted files on your device – no cloud or account needed. Ideal for users who want maximum control. Supports auto-type, hardware keys, password vaults, and integrates well with tools like Syncthing if you want to sync data securely.
✅ Free and offline 🔓 Open source code 🔐 Local AES-256 encryption -
→ Visit Website
🧩 Proton Pass – Secure Password Ecosystem by Proton*
Proton Pass is the newest service in the Proton family, designed with a focus on privacy and encryption. Your passwords, notes, and 2FA codes are fully end-to-end encrypted. Proton Pass integrates seamlessly with browsers and apps and pairs well with Proton Mail & VPN – a strong pillar in secure online life.
✅ Free to use 🔐 End-to-end encryption 📱 Browser & app support
☁️ Privacy-Focused Cloud Storage – Your Data, Your Ownership
Popular cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox often analyze your data, store metadata, and operate from countries with weak privacy laws. If you value security, encryption, and control, choose privacy-friendly alternatives. These solutions offer cloud convenience without surveillance.
Key criteria for secure cloud services:
- End-to-end encryption of your files
- Servers located in privacy-friendly countries
- No analysis or sharing of your content
- Open source or verifiable security architecture
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→ Visit Website
🔐 MEGA – Encrypted Cloud Giant Based in New Zealand
MEGA offers generous free storage (20GB+), easy-to-use apps, and strong client-side encryption. All files are encrypted before upload. Ideal for users seeking a secure and powerful cloud service – accessible via mobile or team collaboration.
✅ 20GB free storage 🔐 Strong encryption 📱 Apps for mobile & web -
→ Visit Website
🗂️ Proton Drive – Swiss Cloud with a Focus on Security*
Proton Drive, developed by the makers of Proton Mail, offers fully encrypted file storage with zero-access architecture. Data is stored in Switzerland, protected by strong privacy laws. Ideal for anyone already using Proton or looking for a highly trustworthy alternative to Google Drive.
✅ 1GB free storage 🔐 E2E encryption 🇨🇭 Servers in Switzerland -
→ Visit Website
🌐 Nextcloud – Private Cloud You Can Host Yourself
Nextcloud is a fully open-source cloud platform you can run on your own server – at home, in your company, or via trusted hosting partners. With calendar, office, chat, and file storage, Nextcloud is a comprehensive alternative to Google Workspace & Co. – giving you full control over your data.
🔓 Open source and transparent 🏠 Self-hosting possible 🛡️ Full data control
🔐 Encryption – Keeping Your Data Safe from Unauthorized Access
Whether in the cloud, on external drives, or email attachments: anyone storing or sharing sensitive data should encrypt it. Only this ensures that no one but you can access your information — even in case of data leaks or device loss. These tools make encryption simple and reliable.
What makes good encryption tools:
- Strong, proven encryption algorithms
- User-friendly & cross-platform support
- Open source & transparent development
- No backdoors or proprietary limitations
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→ Visit Website
🗝️ Cryptomator – Cloud Encryption with Zero-Knowledge
Cryptomator encrypts individual files and folders locally on your device before syncing to the cloud (e.g., Dropbox, OneDrive, Google Drive). The folder structure remains intact, giving you full control. Open source, cross-platform, and easy to use — ideal for private cloud users.
🔓 Open source & secure 🔐 Client-side encryption ☁️ Perfect for cloud data -
→ Visit Website
🧱 VeraCrypt – The Classic for Container Encryption
VeraCrypt enables the creation of encrypted container files or entire encrypted partitions. Especially popular for USB sticks, external drives, or system drives. Based on the well-known TrueCrypt, it is actively maintained with strong algorithms and high stability.
🔐 Strong encryption & secure 🛡️ Open source & well audited 💾 Full control over your data -
→ Visit Website
📦 7-Zip – Compress & Encrypt in One Step
7-Zip is much more than just an archiver: it also allows strong AES-256 encryption during compression. Ideal for securely sending or storing single files or entire folders. This lightweight open-source tool supports many formats and is very resource-efficient.
🗜️ AES-256 strong encryption 💾 Compresses data securely 🔓 Open source & free
🔍 Search Engines – Find What You Need Without Being Tracked
Most search engines — especially Google — create detailed user profiles, store IP addresses, and analyze every search term. To protect your privacy, you should use privacy-friendly alternatives that do not store or share user data.
What defines a private search engine:
- No storage of IP addresses or search histories
- No sharing with advertising networks
- Servers located in privacy-friendly countries
- Transparent business models
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→ Visit Website
🦆 DuckDuckGo – The Classic Without Tracking
DuckDuckGo has been the best-known Google alternative for years. The search engine does not store IP addresses or search histories and only shows unpersonalized ads. Results come from sources like Bing and Wikipedia.
🔍 Privacy-focused search 🚫 No tracking & no profiles 🌐 Built-in tracker blocker -
→ Visit Website
🔎 SearchXNG – German Meta-Search Focused on Privacy
SearchXNG is an open-source meta-search engine with servers in Germany. Results come from various sources, but no personal data is stored or shared. Ad-free and very lightweight.
🔎 Fast & precise search 🔒 Guaranteed privacy ⚡ Modern & user-friendly -
→ Visit Website
🦁 Brave Search – Independent & Anonymous
Brave Search uses its own index and does not rely on third parties like Google or Bing. The search is anonymous, tracking-free, and can be used without the Brave browser. There are free and ad-free paid versions.
🔎 Privacy-friendly search 🚫 No user tracking ⚡ Fast & independent results
📂 Productivity – Working with Privacy
Cloud services, office tools, and digital collaboration are standard today — often at the expense of privacy. Many well-known providers analyze content and metadata. These privacy-friendly alternatives offer full functionality without surveillance.
What makes good productivity tools:
- No data mining or user tracking
- End-to-end encryption possible
- Self-hosting or European servers
- Compatibility with common formats
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→ Visit Website
☁️ Nextcloud – The Private Cloud
Nextcloud is the leading open-source alternative to Google Workspace or Dropbox. It offers file storage, calendars, contacts, office documents, task management, and more — all on your own server or with privacy-friendly hosts.
📁 Self-hosted cloud 🛠️ Integrated office tools 🔒 Full control & security -
→ Visit Website
📝 OnlyOffice – Compatible Online Office
OnlyOffice is a powerful office suite for documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Fully compatible with Microsoft file formats and can be used locally or integrated into Nextcloud — ideal for teams working independently.
📄 Comprehensive office tools 🤝 Real-time collaboration 🔒 Secure privacy -
→ Visit Website
🔐 CryptPad – Encrypted Online Collaboration
CryptPad offers collaborative writing, presentations, polls, Kanban boards, and more — fully end-to-end encrypted. Perfect for teams wanting privacy-respecting online work. No registration required, free to use.
🛡️ Complete encryption 🤝 Real-time collaboration 🔓 Open source & private
📤 Filesharing – Share Files Securely & Privately
Sharing files is part of daily digital life — but often via services that snoop or collect metadata. With these tools, you send documents, images, or entire folders securely, encrypted, and without tracking.
Key features for private filesharing:
- End-to-end encryption
- No storage or analysis of content
- Open source or trusted providers
- Easy to use — even without an account
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→ Visit Website
🚀 Send – Firefox Send, Reimagined
Send is an open-source revival of Mozilla Firefox Send. Files are encrypted in the browser before upload and expire after one download or a set time. Simple, secure, fast.
🛡️ Full encryption 🤝 Real-time collaboration 🔓 Open source & private -
→ Visit Website
☁️ Nextcloud – Share Files with Control
Nextcloud not only enables private cloud storage but also secure filesharing with password protection, expiration dates, and access logs. Ideal for private and professional use — also self-hosted.
🔐 End-to-end encryption 🔗 Easy link sharing with protection 🏠 Self-hosting possible -
→ Visit Website
🧅 OnionShare – Anonymous via the Tor Network
OnionShare lets you share files directly over the Tor network — without central servers. The app automatically creates a hidden .onion link known only to recipients. No registration, maximum anonymity.
🔒 Anonymous file transfer 🕵️♂️ No registration required 🌐 Uses the Tor network
🔑 Two-Factor Authentication – Extra Protection for Your Accounts
Passwords alone are often no longer enough. With 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication), you add an extra layer of security — for example via an app, without SMS or insecure third parties. These tools help you stay secure and privacy-friendly.
What makes a good 2FA app:
- Usable offline, no mandatory cloud connection
- No tracking or analytics
- Compatible with TOTP standard (e.g. Google Authenticator)
- Open source or trustworthy providers
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→ Visit Website
🟣 Ente Auth – Simple & Open Source
Ente Auth is a minimalist 2FA app without ads, trackers, or cloud requirements. The app is open source, supports TOTP, runs offline, and stores all codes locally. Ideal for those who value privacy.
🔐 Passkeys & FIDO2 support 📱 Apps for Android & iOS 🛡️ Local encryption -
→ Visit Website
🛠️ Bitwarden – Password Manager with 2FA
Bitwarden not only manages passwords but also generates TOTP codes for 2FA — directly inside the vault. Convenient when you want to keep everything in one place. This feature is included in the paid version.
🔐 Two-factor authentication 📱 Built-in TOTP generator ✅ Compatible with hardware keys -
→ Visit Website
🟢 Proton Pass – Integrated 2FA & Vaults*
Proton Pass offers secure password management plus integrated TOTP functionality. The app is fully encrypted, open source, and part of the Proton ecosystem — ideal for privacy-focused users.
🔐 Secure 2FA code storage 📱 Auto-fill TOTP codes ✅ End-to-end encryption including 2FA
🗓️ Calendar – Appointments Without Data Harvesters
Digital calendars are practical — but many providers analyze your entries or store metadata on US servers. These calendar solutions protect your privacy and easily integrate into your daily life.
What matters in private calendars:
- End-to-end encryption
- No data selling or tracking
- Open source or trustworthy providers
- Synchronization on all devices
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→ Visit Website
🟢 Proton Calendar – Secure & Encrypted*
Proton Calendar offers full end-to-end encryption for your appointments — even subjects, descriptions, and participants are protected. Ideal for privacy-conscious users. Integrated in Proton Mail app.
🔐 End-to-end encrypted 📅 Seamless Proton integration 🇨🇭 Servers in Switzerland -
→ Visit Website
🟣 Tutanota Calendar – Integrated & Encrypted*
Tutanota Calendar is part of the Tutanota mail ecosystem and protects appointments with strong encryption. Usable via web or app, ideal for users already using Tutanota or preferring German providers.
🔐 Encrypted appointments 📆 Completely ad-free 🇩🇪 Servers in Germany -
→ Visit Website
☁️ Nextcloud Calendar – Control on Your Own Server
Nextcloud Calendar is perfect for self-hosters or privacy-friendly providers. Supports CalDAV, syncs with mobile devices, and offers team features — without central data harvesters.
🔐 Self-hosted & private 📆 Web & mobile compatible 🛠️ With tasks & sharing
📝 Notes – Secure & Organized
Notes often store sensitive information — from passwords to thoughts. Many cloud services read along or store data unencrypted. These tools protect your notes through encryption and privacy-friendly features.
Key criteria for secure note apps:
- End-to-end encryption
- Offline & sync options
- Open source or privacy-friendly
- Multi-platform support
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→ Visit Website
📓 Joplin – Open Source & Flexible
Joplin is a free, open-source note app with Markdown support, encryption, and sync via various services. Ideal for users who want full control over their notes.
🔐 End-to-end encrypted 📝 Markdown & to-do lists 📱 Sync across many services -
→ Visit Website
☁️ Nextcloud Notes – Simple & Integrated
Nextcloud Notes is a simple note app integrated into Nextcloud. It offers sync and secure storage on your own server — ideal for self-hosters and privacy-conscious users.
📝 Simple browser notes 🔐 Data stays on your server 📱 Mobile & web accessible -
→ Visit Website
🔐 Cryptee – Privacy & Security
Cryptee offers encrypted notes and photos, secured completely client-side. The focus is on privacy and security, with an elegant interface and cross-platform support.
🔐 Encrypted notes & photos 🇪🇪 Servers in Estonia 📱 Cross-platform
🖥️ Hosting – Secure & Trustworthy
Web hosting is the foundation for websites, apps, and services. Privacy, server location, and transparency are key factors. These providers offer secure, reliable hosting options focused on privacy and user control.
Important criteria for secure hosting:
- Server location in privacy-friendly countries
- No customer data sharing with third parties
- Transparent pricing and services
- Good performance & support
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→ Visit Website
⚙️ Hetzner – German Hosting with Strong Privacy
Hetzner offers powerful servers from Germany and Finland with clear privacy policies. Ideal for self-hosters and companies valuing control and security.
💼 Reliable hosting ⚡ Fast servers 🌍 German data protection -
→ Visit Website
🌍 Hostinger – Affordable & User-Friendly*
Hostinger offers inexpensive web hosting with easy management and globally distributed data centers. Ideal for beginners who want to go online quickly and securely.
💰 Affordable plans ⚡ High speed 🌐 Worldwide servers -
→ Visit Website
🛡️ Njalla – Anonymous Hosting & Domains
Njalla protects your privacy through anonymous registration and hosting. The operators act as trustees to hide your identity — perfect for maximum anonymity online.
🕵️♂️ Anonymous domain service 🔒 Privacy-focused 🌍 Censorship protection
📡 RSS Readers – News & Info Without Tracking
RSS readers offer a privacy-friendly way to follow news and updates from your favorite sites — without tracking or algorithms. These tools support various platforms and offer flexible features.
What good RSS readers need:
- Offline usage possible
- Multi-platform support
- No data collection
- Open source or transparent
-
→ Visit Website
📚 Feedbro – Powerful & Versatile
Feedbro is a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox with many features like filtering, tagging, and offline reading. Ideal for users who want to use RSS directly in their browser.
📢 RSS reader with filtering ⚙️ Customizable article display 🌐 Browser extension -
→ Visit Website
📰 Akregator – KDE RSS Reader
Akregator is the RSS reader for the KDE environment on Linux, offering a simple and clear overview. Ideal for users looking for a desktop tool without fuss.
📚 RSS reader with folder structure ⚙️ Custom filters and tags 🔄 Synchronization -
→ Visit Website
🦅 Raven Reader – Modern & Cross-Platform
Raven Reader is a modern, cross-platform RSS reader focusing on usability and performance. It supports offline reading, dark mode, and multiple accounts.
📖 Modern RSS reader 🌐 Sync with Feedly ⚡ Fast & cross-platform
💻 Operating Systems – Control Over Your System
The operating system is the foundation of your digital environment. Many commercial systems like Windows or macOS collect telemetry data. These Linux-based alternatives are open source, privacy-friendly, and user-friendly.
Key features of secure operating systems:
- No telemetry or forced accounts
- Open source & transparently developed
- Regular security updates
- Large community & software compatibility
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→ Visit Website
🌿 Linux Mint – Simple & Beginner-Friendly
Linux Mint is one of the most popular Linux distributions focusing on user-friendliness, stability, and privacy. Ideal for Windows switchers, with a familiar interface and large software base.
🐧 User-friendly & stable 💻 Extensive software selection 🔧 Ideal for beginners & pros -
→ Visit Website
🐧 Fedora Linux – Modern & Stable
Fedora is a community-driven Linux distribution that quickly integrates new technologies while focusing on stability and security. Supported by Red Hat, but fully open source.
🐧 Up-to-date & innovative 🔒 Strong security 🛠️ Large developer community -
→ Visit Website
🖥️ Zorin OS – Linux for Windows Switchers
Zorin OS combines a modern, familiar design with the benefits of Linux. Ideal for beginners, schools, and businesses looking for a simple, secure system without data collection.
💻 Windows-like interface ⚡ Fast & user-friendly 🔒 Privacy-focused
🤖 Artificial Intelligence – Private & Transparent
Many AI services collect inputs centrally and use them for training. These AI tools focus on open source, local use, or privacy-friendly providers — giving you more control over your data.
Criteria for privacy-friendly AI tools:
- No central data storage without consent
- Open source or transparent providers
- Offline use possible or voluntary cloud
- Clear data usage policies
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→ Visit Website
📦 Llamafile – Run AI Locally
Llamafile allows you to run large language models directly on your own device — completely offline. No cloud, no tracking — maximum control over your inputs.
🤖 AI runs locally on your device 🔒 No data in the cloud ⚡ Fast & privacy-friendly -
→ Visit Website
💬 Mistral Le Chat – European Open AI Alternative
Le Chat is based on the Mistral language models, developed in Europe with a focus on open source. The platform values transparency and privacy without compromising performance.
🤖 Powerful AI models ⚡ Fast processing 🔒 Focus on privacy and security -
→ Visit Website
🧠 Claude AI – AI with Ethics & Control Focus
Claude is developed by Anthropic and is based on the principle of verified safety (“Constitutional AI”). The platform prioritizes privacy and transparently explains how data is processed.
🤖 Advanced AI assistance 💬 Natural language processing 🔒 Privacy and security
🌐 Social Networks – Privacy Instead of Data Mining
Many social media platforms collect extensive data and influence your timeline with algorithms. These alternatives rely on decentralized networks, privacy, and real control over your data.
Key features of privacy-friendly networks:
🐘 Mastodon – The Decentralized Twitter
Mastodon is a federated social network focused on microblogging. Users choose their own servers (instances) but can communicate with everyone else. Ad-free and open to custom rules and communities.
🤝 Friendica – Connected & Flexible
Friendica is a decentralized social network focused on integrating various platforms (e.g. Twitter, Diaspora). It offers extensive privacy settings and is often self-hosted.
🌀 Aether – Anonymous & Decentralized Forums
Aether is a decentralized, anonymous forum without central servers. Users can create their own communities and moderate posts themselves — perfect for free, ad-free discussions.