Git-Mirrors/privacyguides.org
1
0
Fork 0
mirror of https://github.com/privacyguides/privacyguides.org.git synced 2025-05-02 22:35:21 -04:00
Code Issues Projects Releases Packages Wiki Activity

style: Enable vscode spellcheck and fix typos/style (#2888)

Browse source 
Signed-off-by: fria <138676274+friadev@users.noreply.github.com>
Signed-off-by: Daniel Gray <dngray@privacyguides.org>
This commit is contained in:
Jonah Aragon 2025-02-13 13:12:32 -06:00
parent c11661c0be
commit adc9de513b
No known key found for this signature in database
101 changed files with 940 additions and 324 deletions
Download patch file Download diff file Expand all files Collapse all files

2
docs/about.md
View file

@ -23,7 +23,7 @@ schema:
[:octicons-home-16:](https://www.privacyguides.org){ .card-link title=Homepage }
[:octicons-code-16:](https://github.com/privacyguides/privacyguides.org){ .card-link title="Source Code" }
Privacy Guides is built by volunteers and staff members around the world. All changes to our recommendations and resources are reviewed by at least two [trusted](https://discuss.privacyguides.net/u?group=team&order=solutions&period=all) individuals, and we work diligently to ensure our content is updated as quickly as possible to adapt to the ever changing cybersecurity threat landscape.
Privacy Guides is built by volunteers and staff members around the world. All changes to our recommendations and resources are reviewed by at least two [trusted](https://discuss.privacyguides.net/u?group=team&order=solutions&period=all) individuals, and we work diligently to ensure our content is updated as quickly as possible to adapt to the ever-changing cybersecurity threat landscape.
In addition to our core team, [many other people](about/contributors.md) have made contributions to the project. You can too! We're open source on GitHub, and accepting translation suggestions on [Crowdin](https://crowdin.com/project/privacyguides).

2
docs/about/contributors.md
View file

@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ description: A complete list of contributors who have collectively made an enorm
---
<!-- Do NOT manually edit this file, please add yourself to the .all-contributorsrc file instead. See our GitHub Issues for more details -->
This project follows the [all-contributors](https://github.com/all-contributors/all-contributors) specification. Contributions of **any** kind are welcome to be added to [this list](https://github.com/privacyguides/privacyguides.org/blob/main/.all-contributorsrc), including contributions to Privacy Guides outside of this repo, and contributions that aren't content related (like sharing ideas for Privacy Guides, promoting the project, answering questions on the forum, etc.).
This project follows the [all-contributors](https://github.com/all-contributors/all-contributors) specification. Contributions of **any** kind are welcome to be added to [this list](https://github.com/privacyguides/privacyguides.org/blob/main/.all-contributorsrc), including contributions to Privacy Guides outside this repo, and contributions that aren't content related (like sharing ideas for Privacy Guides, promoting the project, answering questions on the forum, etc.).
| Emoji | Type | Description
| --- | --- | ---

2
docs/about/criteria.md
View file

@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ We have these requirements in regard to developers which wish to submit their pr
- Must disclose affiliation, i.e. your position within the project being submitted.
- Must have a security whitepaper if it is a project that involves the handling of sensitive information like a messenger, password manager, encrypted cloud storage, etc.
- Must have a security white paper if it is a project that involves the handling of sensitive information like a messenger, password manager, encrypted cloud storage, etc.
- Regarding third party audit status, we want to know if you have undergone one, or have requested one. If possible please mention who will be conducting the audit.
- Must explain what the project brings to the table in regard to privacy.

2
docs/about/executive-policy.md
View file

@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ description: These are policies formally adopted by our executive committee, and
These are policies formally adopted by Privacy Guides' executive committee, and take precedence over all other statements expressed on this website.
The key words **must**, **must not**, **required**, **shall**, **shall not**, **should**, **should not**, **recommended**, **may**, and **optional** are to be interpreted as described in [RFC 2119](https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/html/rfc2119).
The keywords **must**, **must not**, **required**, **shall**, **shall not**, **should**, **should not**, **recommended**, **may**, and **optional** are to be interpreted as described in [RFC 2119](https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/html/rfc2119).
## EP1: Freely-Provided Product Samples

2
docs/about/notices.md
View file

@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ This does not include third-party code embedded in the Privacy Guides code repos
* The [Public Sans](https://github.com/privacyguides/brand/tree/67166ed8b641d8ac1837d0b75329e02ed4056704/fonts/Public%20Sans) font used for most text on the site is licensed under the terms detailed [here](https://github.com/privacyguides/brand/blob/67166ed8b641d8ac1837d0b75329e02ed4056704/fonts/Public%20Sans/LICENSE.txt).
* The [DM Mono](https://github.com/privacyguides/brand/tree/67166ed8b641d8ac1837d0b75329e02ed4056704/fonts/DM%20Mono) font used for monospaced text on the site is licensed under the [SIL Open Font License 1.1](https://github.com/privacyguides/brand/blob/67166ed8b641d8ac1837d0b75329e02ed4056704/fonts/DM%20Mono/LICENSE.txt).
We believe that the logos and other images in `assets` obtained from third-party providers are either in the public domain or **fair use**. In a nutshell, legal [fair use doctrine](https://copyright.gov/fair-use/more-info.html) allows the use of copyrighted images in order to identify the subject matter for purposes of public comment. However, these logos and other images may still be subject to trademark laws in one or more jurisdictions. Before using this content, please ensure that it is used to identify the entity or organization that owns the trademark and that you have the right to use it under the laws which apply in the circumstances of your intended use. *When copying content from this website, you are solely responsible for ensuring that you do not infringe someone else's trademark or copyright.*
We believe that the logos and other images in `assets` obtained from third-party providers are either in the public domain or **fair use**. In a nutshell, legal [fair use doctrine](https://copyright.gov/fair-use/more-info.html) allows the use of copyrighted images in order to identify the subject for purposes of public comment. However, these logos and other images may still be subject to trademark laws in one or more jurisdictions. Before using this content, please ensure that it is used to identify the entity or organization that owns the trademark and that you have the right to use it under the laws which apply in the circumstances of your intended use. *When copying content from this website, you are solely responsible for ensuring that you do not infringe someone else's trademark or copyright.*
When you contribute to our website you are doing so under the above licenses, and you are granting Privacy Guides a perpetual, worldwide, non-exclusive, transferable, royalty-free, irrevocable license with the right to sublicense such rights through multiple tiers of sublicensees, to reproduce, modify, display, perform and distribute your contribution as part of our project.

16
docs/about/privacytools.md
View file

@ -36,9 +36,9 @@ At the end of July 2021, we [informed](https://web.archive.org/web/2021072918442
## Control of r/privacytoolsIO
Simultaneously with the ongoing website issues at privacytools.io, the r/privacytoolsIO moderation team was facing challenges with managing the subreddit. The subreddit had always been operated mostly independently of the website's development, but BurungHantu was the primary moderator of the subreddit as well, and he was the only moderator granted "Full Control" privileges. u/trai_dep was the only active moderator at the time, and [posted](https://reddit.com/comments/o9tllh) a request to Reddit's administrators on June 28, 2021, asking to be granted the primary moderator position and full control privileges, in order to make necessary changes to the Subreddit.
Simultaneously with the ongoing website issues at privacytools.io, the r/privacytoolsIO moderation team was facing challenges with managing the Subreddit. The Subreddit had always been operated mostly independently of the website's development, but BurungHantu was the primary moderator of the Subreddit as well, and he was the only moderator granted "Full Control" privileges. u/trai_dep was the only active moderator at the time, and [posted](https://reddit.com/comments/o9tllh) a request to Reddit's administrators on June 28, 2021, asking to be granted the primary moderator position and full control privileges, in order to make necessary changes to the Subreddit.
Reddit requires that subreddits have active moderators. If the primary moderator is inactive for a lengthy period of time (such as a year) the primary moderation position can be re-appointed to the next moderator in line. For this request to have been granted, BurungHantu had to have been completely absent from all Reddit activity for a long period of time, which was consistent with his behaviors on other platforms.
Reddit requires that Subreddits have active moderators. If the primary moderator is inactive for a lengthy period of time (such as a year) the primary moderation position can be re-appointed to the next moderator in line. For this request to have been granted, BurungHantu had to have been completely absent from all Reddit activity for a long period of time, which was consistent with his behaviors on other platforms.
> If you were removed as moderator from a subreddit through Reddit request it is because your lack of response and lack of activity qualified the subreddit for an r/redditrequest transfer.
>
@ -54,7 +54,7 @@ This change [entailed:](https://reddit.com/comments/pnhn4a)
- Redirecting `www.privacytools.io` to [www.privacyguides.org](https://www.privacyguides.org).
- Archiving the source code on GitHub to preserve our past work and issue tracker, which we continued to use for months of future development of this site.
- Posting announcements to our subreddit and various other communities informing people of the official change.
- Posting announcements to our Subreddit and various other communities informing people of the official change.
- Formally closing privacytools.io services, like Matrix and Mastodon, and encouraging existing users to migrate as soon as possible.
Things appeared to be going smoothly, and most of our active community made the switch to our new project exactly as we hoped.
@ -65,11 +65,11 @@ Roughly a week following the transition, BurungHantu returned online for the fir
At this point, BurungHantu claimed he wanted to continue working on privacytools.io on his own and requested that we remove the redirect from `www.privacytools.io` to [www.privacyguides.org](https://www.privacyguides.org). We obliged and requested that he keep the subdomains for Matrix, Mastodon, and PeerTube active for us to run as a public service to our community for at least a few months, in order to allow users on those platforms to easily migrate to other accounts. Due to the federated nature of the services we provided, they were tied to specific domain names making it very difficult to migrate (and in some cases impossible).
Unfortunately, because control of the r/privacytoolsIO subreddit was not returned to BurungHantu at his demand (further information below), those subdomains were [cut off](https://reddit.com/comments/pymthv/comment/hexwrps) at the beginning of October, ending any migration possibilities to any users still using those services.
Unfortunately, because control of the r/privacytoolsIO Subreddit was not returned to BurungHantu at his demand (further information below), those subdomains were [cut off](https://reddit.com/comments/pymthv/comment/hexwrps) at the beginning of October, ending any migration possibilities to any users still using those services.
Following this, BurungHantu made false accusations about Jonah stealing donations from the project. BurungHantu had over a year since the alleged incident occurred, and yet he never made anyone aware of it until after the Privacy Guides migration. BurungHantu has been repeatedly asked for proof and to comment on the reason for his silence by the team [and the community](https://twitter.com/TommyTran732/status/1526153536962281474), and has not done so.
BurungHantu also made a [twitter post](https://twitter.com/privacytoolsIO/status/1510560676967710728) alleging that an "attorney" had reached out to him on Twitter and was providing advice, in another attempt to bully us into giving him control of our subreddit, and as part of his smear campaign to muddy the waters surrounding the launch of Privacy Guides while pretending to be a victim.
BurungHantu also made a [twitter post](https://twitter.com/privacytoolsIO/status/1510560676967710728) alleging that an "attorney" had reached out to him on Twitter and was providing advice, in another attempt to bully us into giving him control of our Subreddit, and as part of his smear campaign to muddy the waters surrounding the launch of Privacy Guides while pretending to be a victim.
## PrivacyTools.io Now
@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ As of September 25th 2022 we are seeing BurungHantu's overall plans come to frui
## r/privacytoolsIO Now
After the launch of [r/PrivacyGuides](https://reddit.com/r/privacyguides), it was impractical for u/trai_dep to continue moderating both subreddits, and with the community on-board with the transition, r/privacytoolsIO was [made](https://reddit.com/comments/qk7qrj) a restricted sub in a post on November 1st, 2021:
After the launch of [r/PrivacyGuides](https://reddit.com/r/privacyguides), it was impractical for u/trai_dep to continue moderating both Subreddits, and with the community on-board with the transition, r/privacytoolsIO was [made](https://reddit.com/comments/qk7qrj) a restricted sub in a post on November 1st, 2021:
> [...] The growth of this Sub was the result of great effort, across several years, by the PrivacyGuides.org team. And by every one of you.
>
@ -87,11 +87,11 @@ After the launch of [r/PrivacyGuides](https://reddit.com/r/privacyguides), it wa
Subreddits do not belong to anybody, and they especially do not belong to brand-holders. They belong to their communities, and the community and its moderators made the decision to support the move to r/PrivacyGuides.
In the months since, BurungHantu has threatened and begged for returning subreddit control to his account in [violation](https://reddit.com/r/redditrequest/wiki/top_mod_removal) of Reddit rules:
In the months since, BurungHantu has threatened and begged for returning Subreddit control to his account in [violation](https://reddit.com/r/redditrequest/wiki/top_mod_removal) of Reddit rules:
> Retaliation from any moderator with regards to removal requests is disallowed.
For a community with many thousands of remaining subscribers, we feel that it would be incredibly disrespectful to return control of that massive platform to the person who abandoned it for over a year, and who now operates a website that we feel provides very low-quality information. Preserving the years of past discussions in that community is more important to us, and thus u/trai_dep and the rest of the subreddit moderation team has made the decision to keep r/privacytoolsIO as-is.
For a community with many thousands of remaining subscribers, we feel that it would be incredibly disrespectful to return control of that massive platform to the person who abandoned it for over a year, and who now operates a website that we feel provides very low-quality information. Preserving the years of past discussions in that community is more important to us, and thus u/trai_dep and the rest of the Subreddit moderation team has made the decision to keep r/privacytoolsIO as-is.
## OpenCollective Now

2
docs/about/statistics.md
View file

@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ We self-host [Umami](https://umami.is) to create a nice visualization of our tra
With this process:
- Your information is never shared with a third-party, it stays on servers we control
- Your information is never shared with a third party, it stays on servers we control
- Your personal data is never saved, we only collect data in aggregate
- No client-side JavaScript is used

8
docs/advanced/communication-network-types.md
View file

@ -44,7 +44,7 @@ When self-hosted, members of a federated server can discover and communicate wit
- Allows for greater control over your own data when running your own server.
- Allows you to choose whom to trust your data with by choosing between multiple "public" servers.
- Often allows for third-party clients which can provide a more native, customized, or accessible experience.
- Server software can be verified that it matches public source code, assuming you have access to the server or you trust the person who does (e.g., a family member).
- Server software can be verified that it matches public source code, assuming you have access to the server, or you trust the person who does (e.g., a family member).
**Disadvantages:**
@ -60,7 +60,7 @@ When self-hosted, members of a federated server can discover and communicate wit
P2P messengers connect to a [distributed network](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_networking) of nodes to relay a message to the recipient without a third-party server.
Clients (peers) usually find each other through the use of a [distributed computing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_computing) network. Examples of this include [Distributed Hash Tables](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_hash_table) (DHT), used by [torrents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BitTorrent_(protocol)) and [IPFS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/InterPlanetary_File_System) for example. Another approach is proximity based networks, where a connection is established over WiFi or Bluetooth (for example, Briar or the [Scuttlebutt](https://scuttlebutt.nz) social network protocol).
Clients (peers) usually find each other through the use of a [distributed computing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_computing) network. Examples of this include [Distributed Hash Tables](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_hash_table) (DHT), used by [torrents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BitTorrent_(protocol)) and [IPFS](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/InterPlanetary_File_System) for example. Another approach is proximity based networks, where a connection is established over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth (for example, Briar or the [Scuttlebutt](https://scuttlebutt.nz) social network protocol).
Once a peer has found a route to its contact via any of these methods, a direct connection between them is made. Although messages are usually encrypted, an observer can still deduce the location and identity of the sender and recipient.
@ -85,9 +85,9 @@ P2P networks do not use servers, as peers communicate directly between each othe
A messenger using [anonymous routing](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-5906-5_628) hides either the identity of the sender, the receiver, or evidence that they have been communicating. Ideally, a messenger should hide all three.
There are [many](https://doi.org/10.1145/3182658) different ways to implement anonymous routing. One of the most famous is [onion routing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onion_routing) (i.e. [Tor](tor-overview.md)), which communicates encrypted messages through a virtual [overlay network](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overlay_network) that hides the location of each node as well as the recipient and sender of each message. The sender and recipient never interact directly and only meet through a secret rendezvous node so that there is no leak of IP addresses nor physical location. Nodes cannot decrypt messages, nor the final destination; only the recipient can. Each intermediary node can only decrypt a part that indicates where to send the still encrypted message next, until it arrives at the recipient who can fully decrypt it, hence the "onion layers."
There are [many](https://doi.org/10.1145/3182658) ways to implement anonymous routing. One of the most famous is [onion routing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onion_routing) (i.e. [Tor](tor-overview.md)), which communicates encrypted messages through a virtual [overlay network](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Overlay_network) that hides the location of each node as well as the recipient and sender of each message. The sender and recipient never interact directly and only meet through a secret rendezvous node so that there is no leak of IP addresses nor physical location. Nodes cannot decrypt messages, nor the final destination; only the recipient can. Each intermediary node can only decrypt a part that indicates where to send the still encrypted message next, until it arrives at the recipient who can fully decrypt it, hence the "onion layers."
Self-hosting a node in an anonymous routing network does not provide the hoster with additional privacy benefits, but rather contributes to the whole network's resilience against identification attacks for everyone's benefit.
Self-hosting a node in an anonymous routing network does not provide the host with additional privacy benefits, but rather contributes to the whole network's resilience against identification attacks for everyone's benefit.
**Advantages:**

18
docs/advanced/dns-overview.md
View file

@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ icon: material/dns
description: The Domain Name System is the "phonebook of the internet," helping your browser find the website it's looking for.
---
The [Domain Name System](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domain_Name_System) is the 'phonebook of the Internet'. DNS translates domain names to IP addresses so browsers and other services can load Internet resources, through a decentralized network of servers.
The [Domain Name System](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domain_Name_System) is the 'phone book of the Internet'. DNS translates domain names to IP addresses so browsers and other services can load Internet resources, through a decentralized network of servers.
## What is DNS?
@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ Below, we discuss and provide a tutorial to prove what an outside observer may s
tshark -w /tmp/dns.pcap udp port 53 and host 1.1.1.1 or host 8.8.8.8
```
2. We can then use [`dig`](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dig_(command)) (Linux, MacOS, etc.) or [`nslookup`](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nslookup) (Windows) to send the DNS lookup to both servers. Software such as web browsers do these lookups automatically, unless they are configured to use encrypted DNS.
2. We can then use [`dig`](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dig_(command)) (Linux, macOS, etc.) or [`nslookup`](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nslookup) (Windows) to send the DNS lookup to both servers. Software such as web browsers do these lookups automatically, unless they are configured to use encrypted DNS.
=== "Linux, macOS"
@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ Below, we discuss and provide a tutorial to prove what an outside observer may s
nslookup privacyguides.org 8.8.8.8
```
3. Next, we want to [analyse](https://wireshark.org/docs/wsug_html_chunked/ChapterIntroduction.html#ChIntroWhatIs) the results:
3. Next, we want to [analyze](https://wireshark.org/docs/wsug_html_chunked/ChapterIntroduction.html#ChIntroWhatIs) the results:
=== "Wireshark"
@ -70,7 +70,7 @@ Encrypted DNS can refer to one of a number of protocols, the most common ones be
### DNSCrypt
[**DNSCrypt**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNSCrypt) was one of the first methods of encrypting DNS queries. DNSCrypt operates on port 443 and works with both the TCP or UDP transport protocols. DNSCrypt has never been submitted to the [Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_Engineering_Task_Force) nor has it gone through the [Request for Comments (RFC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Request_for_Comments) process, so it has not been used widely outside of a few [implementations](https://dnscrypt.info/implementations). As a result, it has been largely replaced by the more popular [DNS over HTTPS](#dns-over-https-doh).
[**DNSCrypt**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNSCrypt) was one of the first methods of encrypting DNS queries. DNSCrypt operates on port 443 and works with both the TCP or UDP transport protocols. DNSCrypt has never been submitted to the [Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_Engineering_Task_Force) nor has it gone through the [Request for Comments (RFC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Request_for_Comments) process, so it has not been used widely outside a few [implementations](https://dnscrypt.info/implementations). As a result, it has been largely replaced by the more popular [DNS over HTTPS](#dns-over-https-doh).
### DNS over TLS (DoT)
@ -118,7 +118,7 @@ In this example we will record what happens when we make a DoH request:
3. After making the request, we can stop the packet capture with <kbd>CTRL</kbd> + <kbd>C</kbd>.
4. Analyse the results in Wireshark:
4. Analyze the results in Wireshark:
```bash
wireshark -r /tmp/dns_doh.pcap
@ -136,13 +136,13 @@ When we do a DNS lookup, it's generally because we want to access a resource. Be
The simplest way to determine browsing activity might be to look at the IP addresses your devices are accessing. For example, if the observer knows that `privacyguides.org` is at `198.98.54.105`, and your device is requesting data from `198.98.54.105`, there is a good chance you're visiting Privacy Guides.
This method is only useful when the IP address belongs to a server that only hosts few websites. It's also not very useful if the site is hosted on a shared platform (e.g. Github Pages, Cloudflare Pages, Netlify, WordPress, Blogger, etc.). It also isn't very useful if the server is hosted behind a [reverse proxy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_proxy), which is very common on the modern Internet.
This method is only useful when the IP address belongs to a server that only hosts few websites. It's also not very useful if the site is hosted on a shared platform (e.g. GitHub Pages, Cloudflare Pages, Netlify, WordPress, Blogger, etc.). It also isn't very useful if the server is hosted behind a [reverse proxy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_proxy), which is very common on the modern Internet.
### Server Name Indication (SNI)
Server Name Indication is typically used when a IP address hosts many websites. This could be a service like Cloudflare, or some other [Denial-of-service attack](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denial-of-service_attack) protection.
Server Name Indication is typically used when an IP address hosts many websites. This could be a service like Cloudflare, or some other [Denial-of-service attack](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denial-of-service_attack) protection.
1. Start capturing again with `tshark`. We've added a filter with our IP address so you don't capture many packets:
1. Start capturing again with `tshark`. We've added a filter with our IP address, so you don't capture many packets:
```bash
tshark -w /tmp/pg.pcap port 443 and host 198.98.54.105
@ -294,7 +294,7 @@ graph TB
ispDNS --> | No | nothing(Do nothing)
```
Encrypted DNS with a third-party should only be used to get around redirects and basic [DNS blocking](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNS_blocking) when you can be sure there won't be any consequences or you're interested in a provider that does some rudimentary filtering.
Encrypted DNS with a third party should only be used to get around redirects and basic [DNS blocking](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DNS_blocking) when you can be sure there won't be any consequences, or you're interested in a provider that does some rudimentary filtering.
[List of recommended DNS servers](../dns.md){ .md-button }

2
docs/advanced/tor-overview.md
View file

@ -20,7 +20,7 @@ Tor works by routing your internet traffic through volunteer-operated servers, i
Before connecting to Tor, you should carefully consider what you're looking to accomplish by using Tor in the first place, and who you're trying to hide your network activity from.
If you live in a free country, are accessing mundane content via Tor, aren't worried about your ISP or local network administrators having the knowledge that you're using Tor, and want to help [de-stigmatize](https://2019.www.torproject.org/about/torusers.html.en) Tor usage, you can likely connect to Tor directly via standard means like [Tor Browser](../tor.md) without worry.
If you live in a free country, are accessing mundane content via Tor, aren't worried about your ISP or local network administrators having the knowledge that you're using Tor, and want to help [destigmatize](https://2019.www.torproject.org/about/torusers.html.en) Tor usage, you can likely connect to Tor directly via standard means like [Tor Browser](../tor.md) without worry.
If you have the ability to access a trusted VPN provider and **any** of the following are true, you almost certainly should connect to Tor through a VPN:

16
docs/ai-chat.md
View file

@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ Alternatively, you can run AI models locally so that your data never leaves your
### Hardware for Local AI Models
Local models are also fairly accessible. It's possible to run smaller models at lower speeds on as little as 8GB of RAM. Using more powerful hardware such as a dedicated GPU with sufficient VRAM or a modern system with fast LPDDR5X memory offers the best experience.
Local models are also fairly accessible. It's possible to run smaller models at lower speeds on as little as 8 GB of RAM. Using more powerful hardware such as a dedicated GPU with sufficient VRAM or a modern system with fast LPDDR5X memory offers the best experience.
LLMs can usually be differentiated by the number of parameters, which can vary between 1.3B to 405B for open-source models available for end users. For example, models below 6.7B parameters are only good for basic tasks like text summaries, while models between 7B and 13B are a great compromise between quality and speed. Models with advanced reasoning capabilities are generally around 70B.
@ -33,9 +33,9 @@ For consumer-grade hardware, it is generally recommended to use [quantized model
| Model Size (in Parameters) | Minimum RAM | Minimum Processor |
|---|---|---|
| 7B | 8GB | Modern CPU (AVX2 support) |
| 13B | 16GB | Modern CPU (AVX2 support) |
| 70B | 72GB | GPU with VRAM |
| 7B | 8 GB | Modern CPU (AVX2 support) |
| 13B | 16 GB | Modern CPU (AVX2 support) |
| 70B | 72 GB | GPU with VRAM |
To run AI locally, you need both an AI model and an AI client.
@ -143,7 +143,7 @@ Llamafile also supports LLaVA. However, it doesn't support speech recognition or
</div>
Mozilla has made llamafiles available for only some Llama and Mistral models, while there are few third-party llamafiles available. Moreover, Windows limits `.exe` files to 4GB, and most models are larger than that.
Mozilla has made llamafiles available for only some Llama and Mistral models, while there are few third-party llamafiles available. Moreover, Windows limits `.exe` files to 4 GB, and most models are larger than that.
To circumvent these issues, you can [load external weights](https://github.com/Mozilla-Ocho/llamafile#using-llamafile-with-external-weights).
@ -162,7 +162,7 @@ To check the authenticity and safety of the model, look for:
- Matching checksums[^1]
- On Hugging Face, you can find the hash by clicking on a model file and looking for the **Copy SHA256** button below it. You should compare this checksum with the one from the model file you downloaded.
A downloaded model is generally safe if it satisfies all of the above checks.
A downloaded model is generally safe if it satisfies all the above checks.
## Criteria
@ -174,14 +174,14 @@ Please note we are not affiliated with any of the projects we recommend. In addi
- Must not transmit personal data, including chat data.
- Must be multi-platform.
- Must not require a GPU.
- Must have support for GPU-powered fast inference.
- Must support GPU-powered fast inference.
- Must not require an internet connection.
### Best-Case
Our best-case criteria represent what we *would* like to see from the perfect project in this category. Our recommendations may not include any or all of this functionality, but those which do may rank higher than others on this page.
- Should be easy to download and set up, e.g. with a one-click install process.
- Should be easy to download and set up, e.g. with a one-click installation process.
- Should have a built-in model downloader option.
- The user should be able to modify the LLM parameters, such as its system prompt or temperature.

6
docs/alternative-networks.md
View file

@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ You can enable Snowflake in your browser by opening it in another tab and turnin
Snowflake does not increase your privacy in any way, nor is it used to connect to the Tor network within your personal browser. However, if your internet connection is uncensored, you should consider running it to help people in censored networks achieve better privacy themselves. There is no need to worry about which websites people are accessing through your proxy—their visible browsing IP address will match their Tor exit node, not yours.
Running a Snowflake proxy is low-risk, even more so than running a Tor relay or bridge which are already not particularly risky endeavours. However, it does still proxy traffic through your network which can be impactful in some ways, especially if your network is bandwidth-limited. Make sure you understand [how Snowflake works](https://gitlab.torproject.org/tpo/anti-censorship/pluggable-transports/snowflake/-/wikis/home) before deciding whether to run a proxy.
Running a Snowflake proxy is low-risk, even more so than running a Tor relay or bridge which are already not particularly risky endeavors. However, it does still proxy traffic through your network which can be impactful in some ways, especially if your network is bandwidth-limited. Make sure you understand [how Snowflake works](https://gitlab.torproject.org/tpo/anti-censorship/pluggable-transports/snowflake/-/wikis/home) before deciding whether to run a proxy.
### I2P (The Invisible Internet Project)
@ -76,7 +76,7 @@ Running a Snowflake proxy is low-risk, even more so than running a Tor relay or
![I2P logo](assets/img/self-contained-networks/i2p.svg#only-light){ align=right }
![I2P logo](assets/img/self-contained-networks/i2p-dark.svg#only-dark){ align=right }
**I2P** is an network layer which encrypts your connections and routes them via a network of computers distributed around the world. It is mainly focused on creating an alternative, privacy-protecting network rather than making regular internet connections anonymous.
**I2P** is a network layer which encrypts your connections and routes them via a network of computers distributed around the world. It is mainly focused on creating an alternative, privacy-protecting network rather than making regular internet connections anonymous.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://geti2p.net/en){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-info-16:](https://geti2p.net/en/about/software){ .card-link title=Documentation }
@ -105,7 +105,7 @@ You can try connecting to *Privacy Guides* via I2P at [privacyguides.i2p](http:/
</div>
Also, unlike Tor, every I2P node will relay traffic for other users by default, instead of relying on dedicated relay volunteers to run nodes. There are approximately [10,000](https://metrics.torproject.org/networksize.html) relays and bridges on the Tor network compared to ~50,000 on I2P, meaning there is potentially more ways for your traffic to be routed to maximize anonymity. I2P also tends to be more performant than Tor, although this is likely a side-effect of Tor being more focused on regular "clearnet" internet traffic and thus using more bottlenecked exit nodes. Hidden service performance is generally considered to be much better on I2P compared to Tor. While running P2P applications like BitTorrent is challenging on Tor (and can massively impact Tor network performance), it is very easy and performant on I2P.
Also, unlike Tor, every I2P node will relay traffic for other users by default, instead of relying on dedicated relay volunteers to run nodes. There are approximately [10,000](https://metrics.torproject.org/networksize.html) relays and bridges on the Tor network compared to ~50,000 on I2P, meaning there is potentially more ways for your traffic to be routed to maximize anonymity. I2P also tends to be more performant than Tor, although this is likely a side effect of Tor being more focused on regular "clearnet" internet traffic and thus using more bottle necked exit nodes. Hidden service performance is generally considered to be much better on I2P compared to Tor. While running P2P applications like BitTorrent is challenging on Tor (and can massively impact Tor network performance), it is very easy and performant on I2P.
There are downsides to I2P's approach, however. Tor relying on dedicated exit nodes means more people in less safe environments can use it, and the relays that do exist on Tor are likely to be more performant and stable, as they generally aren't run on residential connections. Tor is also far more focused on **browser privacy** (i.e. anti-fingerprinting), with a dedicated [Tor Browser](tor.md) to make browsing activity as anonymous as possible. I2P is used via your [regular web browser](desktop-browsers.md), and while you can configure your browser to be more privacy-protecting, you probably still won't have the same browser fingerprint as other I2P users (there's no "crowd" to blend in with in that regard).

2
docs/android/general-apps.md
View file

@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ Main privacy features include:
<div class="admonition note" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Note</p>
Metadata is not currently deleted from video files but that is planned.
Metadata is not currently deleted from video files, but that is planned.
The image orientation metadata is not deleted. If you enable location (in Secure Camera) that **won't** be deleted either. If you want to delete that later you will need to use an external app such as [ExifEraser](../data-redaction.md#exiferaser-android).

12
docs/basics/account-creation.md
View file

@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ icon: 'material/account-plus'
description: Creating accounts online is practically an internet necessity, take these steps to make sure you stay private.
---
Often people sign up for services without thinking. Maybe it's a streaming service so you can watch that new show everyone's talking about, or an account that gives you a discount for your favorite fast food place. Whatever the case may be, you should consider the implications for your data now and later on down the line.
Often people sign up for services without thinking. Maybe it's a streaming service to watch that new show everyone's talking about, or an account that gives you a discount for your favorite fast food place. Whatever the case may be, you should consider the implications for your data now and later on down the line.
There are risks associated with every new service that you use. Data breaches; disclosure of customer information to third parties; rogue employees accessing data; all are possibilities that must be considered when giving your information out. You need to be confident that you can trust the service, which is why we don't recommend storing valuable data on anything but the most mature and battle-tested products. That usually means services which provide E2EE and have undergone a cryptographic audit. An audit increases assurance that the product was designed without glaring security issues caused by an inexperienced developer.
@ -13,11 +13,11 @@ It can also be difficult to delete the accounts on some services. Sometimes [ove
## Terms of Service & Privacy Policy
The ToS are the rules that you agree to follow when using the service. With larger services these rules are often enforced by automated systems. Sometimes these automated systems can make mistakes. For example, you may be banned or locked out of your account on some services for using a VPN or VOIP number. Appealing such bans is often difficult, and involves an automated process too, which isn't always successful. This would be one of the reasons why we wouldn't suggest using Gmail for email as an example. Email is crucial for access to other services you might have signed up for.
The ToS are the rules that you agree to follow when using the service. With larger services these rules are often enforced by automated systems. Sometimes these automated systems can make mistakes. For example, you may be banned or locked out of your account on some services for using a VPN or VoIP number. Appealing such bans is often difficult, and involves an automated process too, which isn't always successful. This would be one of the reasons why we wouldn't suggest using Gmail for email as an example. Email is crucial for access to other services you might have signed up for.
The Privacy Policy is how the service says they will use your data and it is worth reading so that you understand how your data will be used. A company or organization might not be legally obligated to follow everything contained in the policy (it depends on the jurisdiction). We would recommend having some idea what your local laws are and what they permit a provider to collect.
The Privacy Policy is how the service says they will use your data, and it is worth reading so that you understand how your data will be used. A company or organization might not be legally obligated to follow everything contained in the policy (it depends on the jurisdiction). We would recommend having some idea what your local laws are and what they permit a provider to collect.
We recommend looking for particular terms such as "data collection", "data analysis", "cookies", "ads" or "3rd-party" services. Sometimes you will be able to opt-out from data collection or from sharing your data, but it is best to choose a service that respects your privacy from the start.
We recommend looking for particular terms such as "data collection", "data analysis", "cookies", "ads" or "3rd-party" services. Sometimes you will be able to opt out from data collection or from sharing your data, but it is best to choose a service that respects your privacy from the start.
Keep in mind you're also placing your trust in the company or organization and that they will comply with their own privacy policy.
@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ You will be responsible for managing your login credentials. For added security,
#### Email aliases
If you don't want to give your real email address to a service, you have the option to use an alias. We described them in more detail on our email services recommendation page. Essentially, alias services allow you to generate new email addresses that forward all emails to your main address. This can help prevent tracking across services and help you manage the marketing emails that sometimes come with the sign up process. Those can be filtered automatically based on the alias they are sent to.
If you don't want to give your real email address to a service, you have the option to use an alias. We described them in more detail on our email services recommendation page. Essentially, alias services allow you to generate new email addresses that forward all emails to your main address. This can help prevent tracking across services and help you manage the marketing emails that sometimes come with the sign-up process. Those can be filtered automatically based on the alias they are sent to.
Should a service get hacked, you might start receiving phishing or spam emails to the address you used to sign up. Using unique aliases for each service can assist in identifying exactly what service was hacked.
@ -76,7 +76,7 @@ Malicious applications, particularly on mobile devices where the application has
We recommend avoiding services that require a phone number for sign up. A phone number can identify you across multiple services and depending on data sharing agreements this will make your usage easier to track, particularly if one of those services is breached as the phone number is often **not** encrypted.
You should avoid giving out your real phone number if you can. Some services will allow the use of VOIP numbers, however these often trigger fraud detection systems, causing an account to be locked down, so we don't recommend that for important accounts.
You should avoid giving out your real phone number if you can. Some services will allow the use of VoIP numbers, however these often trigger fraud detection systems, causing an account to be locked down, so we don't recommend that for important accounts.
In many cases you will need to provide a number that you can receive SMS or calls from, particularly when shopping internationally, in case there is a problem with your order at border screening. It's common for services to use your number as a verification method; don't let yourself get locked out of an important account because you wanted to be clever and give a fake number!

4
docs/basics/account-deletion.md
View file

@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ Desktop platforms also often have a password manager which may help you recover
### Email
If you didn't use a password manager in the past or you think you have accounts that were never added to your password manager, another option is to search the email account(s) that you believe you signed up on. On your email client, search for keywords such as "verify" or "welcome." Almost every time you make an online account, the service will send a verification link or an introductory message to your email. This can be a good way to find old, forgotten accounts.
If you didn't use a password manager in the past, or you think you have accounts that were never added to your password manager, another option is to search the email account(s) that you believe you signed up on. On your email client, search for keywords such as "verify" or "welcome." Almost every time you make an online account, the service will send a verification link or an introductory message to your email. This can be a good way to find old, forgotten accounts.
## Deleting Old Accounts
@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ When attempting to regain access, if the site returns an error message saying th
### GDPR (EEA residents only)
Residents of the EEA have additional rights regarding data erasure specified in [Article 17](https://gdpr-info.eu/art-17-gdpr) of the GDPR. If it's applicable to you, read the privacy policy for any given service to find information on how to exercise your right to erasure. Reading the privacy policy can prove important, as some services have a "Delete Account" option that only disables your account and for real deletion you have to take additional action. Sometimes actual deletion may involve filling out surveys, emailing the data protection officer of the service or even proving your residence in the EEA. If you plan to go this way, do **not** overwrite account information—your identity as an EEA resident may be required. Note that the location of the service does not matter; GDPR applies to anyone serving European users. If the service does not respect your right to erasure, you can contact your national [Data Protection Authority](https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/law-topic/data-protection/reform/rights-citizens/redress/what-should-i-do-if-i-think-my-personal-data-protection-rights-havent-been-respected_en) and you may be entitled to monetary compensation.
Residents of the EEA have additional rights regarding data erasure specified in [Article 17](https://gdpr-info.eu/art-17-gdpr) of the GDPR. If it's applicable to you, read the privacy policy for any given service to find information on how to exercise your right to erasure. Reading the privacy policy can prove important, as some services have a "Delete Account" option that only disables your account and for real deletion you have to take additional action. Sometimes actual deletion may involve filling out surveys, emailing the data protection officer of the service or even proving your residence in the EEA. If you plan to go this way, do **not** overwrite account information—your identity as an EEA resident may be required. Note that the location of the service does not matter; GDPR applies to anyone serving European users. If the service does not respect your right to erasure, you can contact your national [Data Protection Authority](https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/law-topic/data-protection/reform/rights-citizens/redress/what-should-i-do-if-i-think-my-personal-data-protection-rights-havent-been-respected_en) and may be entitled to monetary compensation.
### Overwriting Account information

6
docs/basics/common-misconceptions.md
View file

@ -63,13 +63,13 @@ The privacy policies and business practices of providers you choose are very imp
## "Complicated is better"
We often see people describing privacy threat models that are overly complex. Often, these solutions include problems like many different email accounts or complicated setups with lots of moving parts and conditions. The replies are usually answers to "What is the best way to do *X*?"
We often see people describing privacy threat models that are overly complex. Often, these solutions include problems like multiple email accounts or complicated setups with lots of moving parts and conditions. The replies are usually answers to "What is the best way to do *X*?"
Finding the "best" solution for yourself doesn't necessarily mean you are after an infallible solution with dozens of conditions—these solutions are often difficult to work with realistically. As we discussed previously, security often comes at the cost of convenience. Below, we provide some tips:
1. ==Actions need to serve a particular purpose:== think about how to do what you want with the fewest actions.
2. ==Remove human failure points:== We fail, get tired, and forget things. To maintain security, avoid relying on manual conditions and processes that you have to remember.
3. ==Use the right level of protection for what you intend.== We often see recommendations of so-called law-enforcement or subpoena-proof solutions. These often require specialist knowledge and generally aren't what people want. There's no point in building an intricate threat model for anonymity if you can be easily de-anonymized by a simple oversight.
3. ==Use the right level of protection for what you intend.== We often see recommendations of so-called law-enforcement or subpoena-proof solutions. These often require specialist knowledge and generally aren't what people want. There's no point in building an intricate threat model for anonymity if you can be easily deanonymized by a simple oversight.
So, how might this look?
@ -94,4 +94,4 @@ One of the clearest threat models is one where people *know who you are* and one
Using Tor can help with this. It is also worth noting that greater anonymity is possible through asynchronous communication: Real-time communication is vulnerable to analysis of typing patterns (i.e. more than a paragraph of text, distributed on a forum, via email, etc.)
[^1]: A notable supply chain attack occurred in March 2024, when a malicious maintainer added a obfuscated backdoor into `xz`, a popular compression library. The backdoor ([CVE-2024-3094](https://cve.org/CVERecord?id=CVE-2024-3094)) was intended to give an unknown party remote access to most Linux servers via SSH, but it was discovered before it had been widely deployed.
[^1]: A notable supply chain attack occurred in March 2024, when a malicious maintainer added an obfuscated backdoor into `xz`, a popular compression library. The backdoor ([CVE-2024-3094](https://cve.org/CVERecord?id=CVE-2024-3094)) was intended to give an unknown party remote access to most Linux servers via SSH, but it was discovered before it had been widely deployed.

14
docs/basics/common-threats.md
View file

@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ icon: 'material/eye-outline'
description: Your threat model is personal to you, but these are some of the things many visitors to this site care about.
---
Broadly speaking, we categorize our recommendations into the [threats](threat-modeling.md) or goals that apply to most people. ==You may be concerned with none, one, a few, or all of these possibilities==, and the tools and services you use depend on what your goals are. You may have specific threats outside of these categories as well, which is perfectly fine! The important part is developing an understanding of the benefits and shortcomings of the tools you choose to use, because virtually none of them will protect you from every threat.
Broadly speaking, we categorize our recommendations into the [threats](threat-modeling.md) or goals that apply to most people. ==You may be concerned with none, one, a few, or all of these possibilities==, and the tools and services you use depend on what your goals are. You may have specific threats outside these categories as well, which is perfectly fine! The important part is developing an understanding of the benefits and shortcomings of the tools you choose to use, because virtually none of them will protect you from every threat.
<span class="pg-purple">:material-incognito: **Anonymity**</span>
@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ Broadly speaking, we categorize our recommendations into the [threats](threat-mo
<span class="pg-viridian">:material-package-variant-closed-remove: **Supply Chain Attacks**</span>
: Typically a form of <span class="pg-red">:material-target-account: Targeted Attack</span> that centers around a vulnerability or exploit introduced into otherwise good software either directly or through a dependency from a third party.
: Typically, a form of <span class="pg-red">:material-target-account: Targeted Attack</span> that centers around a vulnerability or exploit introduced into otherwise good software either directly or through a dependency from a third party.
<span class="pg-orange">:material-bug-outline: **Passive Attacks**</span>
@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ Broadly speaking, we categorize our recommendations into the [threats](threat-mo
<span class="pg-green">:material-account-search: **Public Exposure**</span>
: Limiting the information about you that is accessible online—to search engines or the general public.
: Limiting the information about you that is accessible online—to search engines or the public.
<span class="pg-blue-gray">:material-close-outline: **Censorship**</span>
@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ To minimize the damage that a malicious piece of software *could* do, you should
Mobile operating systems generally have better application sandboxing than desktop operating systems: Apps can't obtain root access, and require permission for access to system resources.
Desktop operating systems generally lag behind on proper sandboxing. ChromeOS has similar sandboxing capabilities to Android, and macOS has full system permission control (and developers can opt-in to sandboxing for applications). However, these operating systems do transmit identifying information to their respective OEMs. Linux tends to not submit information to system vendors, but it has poor protection against exploits and malicious apps. This can be mitigated somewhat with specialized distributions which make significant use of virtual machines or containers, such as [Qubes OS](../desktop.md#qubes-os).
Desktop operating systems generally lag behind on proper sandboxing. ChromeOS has similar sandboxing capabilities to Android, and macOS has full system permission control (and developers can opt in to sandboxing for applications). However, these operating systems do transmit identifying information to their respective OEMs. Linux tends to not submit information to system vendors, but it has poor protection against exploits and malicious apps. This can be mitigated somewhat with specialized distributions which make significant use of virtual machines or containers, such as [Qubes OS](../desktop.md#qubes-os).
</div>
@ -134,7 +134,7 @@ Therefore, you should use native applications over web clients whenever possible
</div>
Even with E2EE, service providers can still profile you based on **metadata**, which typically isn't protected. While the service provider can't read your messages, they can still observe important things, such as who you're talking to, how often you message them, and when you're typically active. Protection of metadata is fairly uncommon, and—if it's within your [threat model](threat-modeling.md)—you should pay close attention to the technical documentation of the software you're using to see if there's any metadata minimization or protection at all.
Even with E2EE, service providers can still profile you based on **metadata**, which typically isn't protected. While the service provider can't read your messages, they can still observe important things, such as whom you're talking to, how often you message them, and when you're typically active. Protection of metadata is fairly uncommon, and—if it's within your [threat model](threat-modeling.md)—you should pay close attention to the technical documentation of the software you're using to see if there's any metadata minimization or protection at all.
## Mass Surveillance Programs
@ -147,7 +147,7 @@ Mass surveillance is the intricate effort to monitor the "behavior, many activit
If you want to learn more about surveillance methods and how they're implemented in your city you can also take a look at the [Atlas of Surveillance](https://atlasofsurveillance.org) by the [Electronic Frontier Foundation](https://eff.org).
In France you can take a look at the [Technopolice website](https://technopolice.fr/villes) maintained by the non-profit association La Quadrature du Net.
In France, you can take a look at the [Technopolice website](https://technopolice.fr/villes) maintained by the non-profit association La Quadrature du Net.
</div>
@ -180,7 +180,7 @@ If you're concerned about mass surveillance programs, you can use strategies lik
For many people, tracking and surveillance by private corporations is a growing concern. Pervasive ad networks, such as those operated by Google and Facebook, span the internet far beyond just the sites they control, tracking your actions along the way. Using tools like content blockers to limit network requests to their servers, and reading the privacy policies of the services you use can help you avoid many basic adversaries (although it can't completely prevent tracking).[^4]
Additionally, even companies outside of the *AdTech* or tracking industry can share your information with [data brokers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_broker) (such as Cambridge Analytica, Experian, or Datalogix) or other parties. You can't automatically assume your data is safe just because the service you're using doesn't fall within the typical AdTech or tracking business model. The strongest protection against corporate data collection is to encrypt or obfuscate your data whenever possible, making it difficult for different providers to correlate data with each other and build a profile on you.
Additionally, even companies outside the *AdTech* or tracking industry can share your information with [data brokers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_broker) (such as Cambridge Analytica, Experian, or Datalogix) or other parties. You can't automatically assume your data is safe just because the service you're using doesn't fall within the typical AdTech or tracking business model. The strongest protection against corporate data collection is to encrypt or obfuscate your data whenever possible, making it difficult for different providers to correlate data with each other and build a profile on you.
## Limiting Public Information

8
docs/basics/email-security.md
View file

@ -29,13 +29,13 @@ If you use a shared domain from a provider which doesn't support WKD, like @gmai
### What Email Clients Support E2EE?
Email providers which allow you to use standard access protocols like IMAP and SMTP can be used with any of the [email clients we recommend](../email-clients.md). Depending on the authentication method, this may lead to the decrease security if either the provider or the email client does not support OATH or a bridge application as [multi-factor authentication](multi-factor-authentication.md) is not possible with plain password authentication.
Email providers which allow you to use standard access protocols like IMAP and SMTP can be used with any of the [email clients we recommend](../email-clients.md). Depending on the authentication method, this may lead to the decrease security if either the provider or the email client does not support OATH or a bridge application as [multifactor authentication](multi-factor-authentication.md) is not possible with plain password authentication.
### How Do I Protect My Private Keys?
A smartcard (such as a [YubiKey](https://support.yubico.com/hc/articles/360013790259-Using-Your-YubiKey-with-OpenPGP) or [Nitrokey](../security-keys.md#nitrokey)) works by receiving an encrypted email message from a device (phone, tablet, computer, etc.) running an email/webmail client. The message is then decrypted by the smartcard and the decrypted content is sent back to the device.
A smart card (such as a [YubiKey](https://support.yubico.com/hc/articles/360013790259-Using-Your-YubiKey-with-OpenPGP) or [Nitrokey](../security-keys.md#nitrokey)) works by receiving an encrypted email message from a device (phone, tablet, computer, etc.) running an email/webmail client. The message is then decrypted by the smart card and the decrypted content is sent back to the device.
It is advantageous for the decryption to occur on the smartcard to avoid possibly exposing your private key to a compromised device.
It is advantageous for the decryption to occur on the smart card to avoid possibly exposing your private key to a compromised device.
## Email Metadata Overview
@ -49,4 +49,4 @@ Email metadata is protected from outside observers with [Opportunistic TLS](http
### Why Can't Metadata be E2EE?
Email metadata is crucial to the most basic functionality of email (where it came from, and where it has to go). E2EE was not built into the email protocols originally, instead requiring add-on software like OpenPGP. Because OpenPGP messages still have to work with traditional email providers, it cannot encrypt email metadata, only the message body itself. That means that even when using OpenPGP, outside observers can see lots of information about your messages, such as who you're emailing, the subject lines, when you're emailing, etc.
Email metadata is crucial to the most basic functionality of email (where it came from, and where it has to go). E2EE was not built into the email protocols originally, instead requiring add-on software like OpenPGP. Because OpenPGP messages still have to work with traditional email providers, it cannot encrypt email metadata, only the message body itself. That means that even when using OpenPGP, outside observers can see lots of information about your messages, such as whom you're emailing, the subject lines, when you're emailing, etc.

4
docs/basics/hardware.md
View file

@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ Most implementations of face authentication require you to be looking at your ph
<div class="admonition warning" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Warning</p>
Some devices do not have the proper hardware for secure face authentication. There's two main types of face authentication: 2D and 3D. 3D face authentication makes use of a dot projector that lets the device create a 3D depth map of your face. Make sure that your device has this capability.
Some devices do not have the proper hardware for secure face authentication. There are two main types of face authentication: 2D and 3D. 3D face authentication makes use of a dot projector that lets the device create a 3D depth map of your face. Make sure that your device has this capability.
</div>
@ -102,7 +102,7 @@ A dead man's switch stops a piece of machinery from operating without the presen
Some laptops are able to [detect](https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/managing-presence-sensing-settings-in-windows-11-82285c93-440c-4e15-9081-c9e38c1290bb) when you're present and can lock automatically when you aren't sitting in front of the screen. You should check the settings in your OS to see if your computer supports this feature.
You can also get cables, like [Buskill](https://buskill.in), that will lock or wipe your computer when the cable is disconnected.
You can also get cables, like [BusKill](https://buskill.in), that will lock or wipe your computer when the cable is disconnected.
### Anti-Interdiction/Evil Maid Attack

16
docs/basics/multi-factor-authentication.md
View file

@ -1,9 +1,9 @@
---
title: "Multi-Factor Authentication"
title: "Multifactor Authentication"
icon: 'material/two-factor-authentication'
description: MFA is a critical security mechanism for securing your online accounts, but some methods are stronger than others.
---
**Multi-Factor Authentication** (**MFA**) is a security mechanism that requires additional steps beyond entering your username (or email) and password. The most common method is time limited codes you might receive from SMS or an app.
**Multifactor Authentication** (**MFA**) is a security mechanism that requires additional steps beyond entering your username (or email) and password. The most common method is time limited codes you might receive from SMS or an app.
Normally, if a hacker (or adversary) is able to figure out your password then they’d gain access to the account that password belongs to. An account with MFA forces the hacker to have both the password (something you *know*) and a device that you own (something you *have*), like your phone.
@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ The security of push notification MFA is dependent on both the quality of the ap
### Time-based One-time Password (TOTP)
TOTP is one of the most common forms of MFA available. When you set up TOTP, you are generally required to scan a [QR Code](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code) which establishes a "[shared secret](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shared_secret)" with the service that you intend to use. The shared secret is secured inside of the authenticator app's data, and is sometimes protected by a password.
TOTP is one of the most common forms of MFA available. When you set up TOTP, you are generally required to scan a [QR Code](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code) which establishes a "[shared secret](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shared_secret)" with the service that you intend to use. The shared secret is secured inside the authenticator app's data, and is sometimes protected by a password.
The time-limited code is then derived from the shared secret and the current time. As the code is only valid for a short time, without access to the shared secret, an adversary cannot generate new codes.
@ -81,7 +81,7 @@ This presentation discusses the history of password authentication, the pitfalls
FIDO2 and WebAuthn have superior security and privacy properties when compared to any MFA methods.
Typically for web services it is used with WebAuthn which is a part of the [W3C recommendations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Wide_Web_Consortium#W3C_recommendation_(REC)). It uses public key authentication and is more secure than shared secrets used in Yubico OTP and TOTP methods, as it includes the origin name (usually, the domain name) during authentication. Attestation is provided to protect you from phishing attacks, as it helps you to determine that you are using the authentic service and not a fake copy.
Typically, for web services it is used with WebAuthn which is a part of the [W3C recommendations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Wide_Web_Consortium#W3C_recommendation_(REC)). It uses public key authentication and is more secure than shared secrets used in Yubico OTP and TOTP methods, as it includes the origin name (usually, the domain name) during authentication. Attestation is provided to protect you from phishing attacks, as it helps you to determine that you are using the authentic service and not a fake copy.
Unlike Yubico OTP, WebAuthn does not use any public ID, so the key is **not** identifiable across different websites. It also does not use any third-party cloud server for authentication. All communication is completed between the key and the website you are logging into. FIDO also uses a counter which is incremented upon use in order to prevent session reuse and cloned keys.
@ -115,15 +115,15 @@ If you use SMS MFA, use a carrier who will not switch your phone number to a new
## More Places to Set Up MFA
Beyond just securing your website logins, multi-factor authentication can be used to secure your local logins, SSH keys or even password databases as well.
Beyond just securing your website logins, multifactor authentication can be used to secure your local logins, SSH keys or even password databases as well.
### macOS
macOS has [native support](https://support.apple.com/guide/deployment/intro-to-smart-card-integration-depd0b888248/web) for authentication with smart cards (PIV). If you have a smartcard or a hardware security key that supports the PIV interface such as the YubiKey, we recommend that you follow your smartcard/hardware security vendor's documentation and set up second factor authentication for your macOS computer.
macOS has [native support](https://support.apple.com/guide/deployment/intro-to-smart-card-integration-depd0b888248/web) for authentication with smart cards (PIV). If you have a smart card or a hardware security key that supports the PIV interface such as the YubiKey, we recommend that you follow your smart card or hardware security vendor's documentation and set up second factor authentication for your macOS computer.
Yubico have a guide [Using Your YubiKey as a Smart Card in macOS](https://support.yubico.com/hc/articles/360016649059) which can help you set up your YubiKey on macOS.
After your smartcard/security key is set up, we recommend running this command in the Terminal:
After your smart card/security key is set up, we recommend running this command in the Terminal:
```text
sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/com.apple.loginwindow DisableFDEAutoLogin -bool YES
@ -158,4 +158,4 @@ SSH MFA can also be set up using TOTP. DigitalOcean has provided a tutorial [How
### KeePass (and KeePassXC)
KeePass and KeePassXC databases can be secured using Challenge-Response or HOTP as a second-factor authentication. Yubico has provided a document for KeePass [Using Your YubiKey with KeePass](https://support.yubico.com/hc/articles/360013779759-Using-Your-YubiKey-with-KeePass) and there is also one on the [KeePassXC](https://keepassxc.org/docs/#faq-yubikey-2fa) website.
KeePass and KeePassXC databases can be secured using HOTP or Challenge-Response as a second-factor of authentication. Yubico has provided a document for KeePass [Using Your YubiKey with KeePass](https://support.yubico.com/hc/articles/360013779759-Using-Your-YubiKey-with-KeePass) and there is also one on the [KeePassXC](https://keepassxc.org/docs/#faq-yubikey-2fa) website.

18
docs/basics/passwords-overview.md
View file

@ -24,7 +24,7 @@ All of our [recommended password managers](../passwords.md) include a built-in p
You should avoid changing passwords that you have to remember (such as your password manager's master password) too often unless you have reason to believe it has been compromised, as changing it too often exposes you to the risk of forgetting it.
When it comes to passwords that you don't have to remember (such as passwords stored inside your password manager), if your [threat model](threat-modeling.md) calls for it, we recommend going through important accounts (especially accounts that don't use multi-factor authentication) and changing their password every couple of months, in case they have been compromised in a data breach that hasn't become public yet. Most password managers allow you to set an expiry date for your password to make this easier to manage.
When it comes to passwords that you don't have to remember (such as passwords stored inside your password manager), if your [threat model](threat-modeling.md) calls for it, we recommend going through important accounts (especially accounts that don't use multifactor authentication) and changing their password every couple of months, in case they have been compromised in a data breach that hasn't become public yet. Most password managers allow you to set an expiry date for your password to make this easier to manage.
<div class="admonition tip" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Checking for data breaches</p>
@ -54,13 +54,13 @@ To generate a diceware passphrase using real dice, follow these steps:
<div class="admonition Note" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Note</p>
These instructions assume that you are using [EFF's large wordlist](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) to generate the passphrase, which requires five dice rolls per word. Other wordlists may require more or less rolls per word, and may require a different amount of words to achieve the same entropy.
These instructions assume that you are using [EFF's large word list](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) to generate the passphrase, which requires five dice rolls per word. Other word lists may require more or less rolls per word, and may require a different amount of words to achieve the same entropy.
</div>
1. Roll a six-sided die five times, noting down the number after each roll.
2. As an example, let's say you rolled `2-5-2-6-6`. Look through the [EFF's large wordlist](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) for the word that corresponds to `25266`.
2. As an example, let's say you rolled `2-5-2-6-6`. Look through the [EFF's large word list](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) for the word that corresponds to `25266`.
3. You will find the word `encrypt`. Write that word down.
@ -75,12 +75,12 @@ You should **not** re-roll words until you get a combination of words that appea
If you don't have access to or would prefer to not use real dice, you can use your password manager's built-in password generator, as most of them have the option to generate diceware passphrases in addition to regular passwords.
We recommend using [EFF's large wordlist](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) to generate your diceware passphrases, as it offers the exact same security as the original list, while containing words that are easier to memorize. There are also [other wordlists in different languages](https://theworld.com/~reinhold/diceware.html#Diceware%20in%20Other%20Languages|outline), if you do not want your passphrase to be in English.
We recommend using [EFF's large word list](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) to generate your diceware passphrases, as it offers the exact same security as the original list, while containing words that are easier to memorize. There are also [word lists in different languages](https://theworld.com/~reinhold/diceware.html#Diceware%20in%20Other%20Languages|outline), if you do not want your passphrase to be in English.
<details class="note" markdown>
<summary>Explanation of entropy and strength of diceware passphrases</summary>
To demonstrate how strong diceware passphrases are, we'll use the aforementioned seven word passphrase (`viewable fastness reluctant squishy seventeen shown pencil`) and [EFF's large wordlist](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) as an example.
To demonstrate how strong diceware passphrases are, we'll use the aforementioned seven word passphrase (`viewable fastness reluctant squishy seventeen shown pencil`) and [EFF's large word list](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) as an example.
One metric to determine the strength of a diceware passphrase is how much entropy it has. The entropy per word in a diceware passphrase is calculated as <math>
<mrow>
@ -132,19 +132,19 @@ Therefore, each word in the aforementioned list results in ~12.9 bits of entropy
</mrow>
</math>).
The [EFF's large wordlist](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) contains 7776 unique words. To calculate the amount of possible passphrases, all we have to do is <math>
The [EFF's large word list](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) contains 7776 unique words. To calculate the amount of possible passphrases, all we have to do is <math>
<msup>
<mtext>WordsInList</mtext>
<mtext>WordsInPhrase</mtext>
</msup>
</math>, or in our case, <math><msup><mn>7776</mn><mn>7</mn></msup></math>.
Let's put all of this in perspective: A seven word passphrase using [EFF's large wordlist](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) is one of ~1,719,070,799,748,422,500,000,000,000 possible passphrases.
Let's put all of this in perspective: A seven word passphrase using [EFF's large word list](https://eff.org/files/2016/07/18/eff_large_wordlist.txt) is one of ~1,719,070,799,748,422,500,000,000,000 possible passphrases.
On average, it takes trying 50% of all the possible combinations to guess your phrase. With that in mind, even if your adversary is capable of ~1,000,000,000,000 guesses per second, it would still take them ~27,255,689 years to guess your passphrase. That is the case even if the following things are true:
- Your adversary knows that you used the diceware method.
- Your adversary knows the specific wordlist that you used.
- Your adversary knows the specific word list that you used.
- Your adversary knows how many words your passphrase contains.
</details>
@ -164,7 +164,7 @@ There are many good options to choose from, both cloud-based and local. Choose o
<div class="admonition warning" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Don't place your passwords and TOTP tokens inside the same password manager</p>
When using [TOTP codes as multi-factor authentication](multi-factor-authentication.md#time-based-one-time-password-totp), the best security practice is to keep your TOTP codes in a [separate app](../multi-factor-authentication.md).
When using [TOTP codes as multifactor authentication](multi-factor-authentication.md#time-based-one-time-password-totp), the best security practice is to keep your TOTP codes in a [separate app](../multi-factor-authentication.md).
Storing your TOTP tokens in the same place as your passwords, while convenient, reduces the accounts to a single factor in the event that an adversary gains access to your password manager.

2
docs/basics/threat-modeling.md
View file

@ -35,7 +35,7 @@ An “asset” is something you value and want to protect. In the context of dig
To answer this question, it's important to identify who might want to target you or your information. ==A person or entity that poses a threat to your assets is an “adversary”.== Examples of potential adversaries are your boss, your former partner, your business competition, your government, or a hacker on a public network.
*Make a list of your adversaries or those who might want to get ahold of your assets. Your list may include individuals, a government agency, or corporations.*
*Make a list of your adversaries or those who might want to get hold of your assets. Your list may include individuals, a government agency, or corporations.*
Depending on who your adversaries are, this list might be something you want to destroy after you've finished developing your threat model.

2
docs/browser-extensions.md
View file

@ -85,7 +85,7 @@ uBlock Origin Lite only receives block list updates whenever the extension is up
### AdGuard
We recommend [Safari](mobile-browsers.md#safari-ios) for iOS users, which unfortunately is not supported by uBlock Origin. Luckily, Adguard provides an adequate alternative:
We recommend [Safari](mobile-browsers.md#safari-ios) for iOS users, which unfortunately is not supported by uBlock Origin. Luckily, AdGuard provides an adequate alternative:
<div class="admonition recommendation" markdown>

2
docs/calendar.md
View file

@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ cover: calendar.webp
![Tuta logo](assets/img/email/tuta.svg#only-light){ align=right }
![Tuta logo](assets/img/email/tuta-dark.svg#only-dark){ align=right }
**Tuta** offers a free and encrypted calendar across their supported platforms. Features include: automatic E2EE of all data, sharing features, import/export functionality, multi-factor authentication, and [more](https://tuta.com/calendar-app-comparison).
**Tuta** offers a free and encrypted calendar across their supported platforms. Features include: automatic E2EE of all data, sharing features, import/export functionality, multifactor authentication, and [more](https://tuta.com/calendar-app-comparison).
Multiple calendars and extended sharing functionality is limited to paid subscribers.

6
docs/cloud.md
View file

@ -27,7 +27,7 @@ Nextcloud is [still a recommended tool](document-collaboration.md#nextcloud) for
![Proton Drive logo](assets/img/cloud/protondrive.svg){ align=right }
**Proton Drive** is an encrypted cloud storage provider from the popular encrypted email provider [Proton Mail](email.md#proton-mail). The initial free storage is limited to 2GB, but with the completion of [certain steps](https://proton.me/support/more-free-storage-existing-users), additional storage can be obtained up to 5GB.
**Proton Drive** is an encrypted cloud storage provider from the popular encrypted email provider [Proton Mail](email.md#proton-mail). The initial free storage is limited to 2 GB, but with the completion of [certain steps](https://proton.me/support/more-free-storage-existing-users), additional storage can be obtained up to 5 GB.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://proton.me/drive){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://proton.me/drive/privacy-policy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -120,7 +120,7 @@ Running a local version of Peergos alongside a registered account on their paid,
Peergos was [audited](https://peergos.org/posts/security-audit-2024) in November 2024 by Radically Open Security and all issues were fixed. They were previously [audited](https://cure53.de/pentest-report_peergos.pdf) by Cure53 in June 2019, and all found issues were subsequently fixed.
An Android app is not available but it is [in the works](https://discuss.privacyguides.net/t/peergos-private-storage-sharing-social-media-and-application-platform/11825/25). The current workaround is to use the mobile [PWA](https://peergos.net) instead.
An Android app is not available, but it is [in the works](https://discuss.privacyguides.net/t/peergos-private-storage-sharing-social-media-and-application-platform/11825/25). The current workaround is to use the mobile [PWA](https://peergos.net) instead.
## Criteria
@ -130,7 +130,7 @@ An Android app is not available but it is [in the works](https://discuss.privacy
- Must enforce end-to-end encryption.
- Must offer a free plan or trial period for testing.
- Must support TOTP or FIDO2 multi-factor authentication, or passkey logins.
- Must support TOTP or FIDO2 multifactor authentication, or passkey logins.
- Must offer a web interface which supports basic file management functionality.
- Must allow for easy exports of all files/documents.

2
docs/cryptocurrency.md
View file

@ -74,7 +74,7 @@ There are numerous centralized exchanges (CEX) as well as P2P marketplaces where
- [Kraken](https://kraken.com): A well-known CEX. Registration and KYC are mandatory. Card payments and bank transfers accepted. Make sure not to leave your newly purchased Monero on Kraken's platform after the purchase; withdraw them to a self-custody wallet. Monero is not available in all jurisdictions that Kraken operates in.[^1]
- [Cake Wallet](https://cakewallet.com): A self-custody cross-platform wallet for Monero and other cryptocurrencies. You can buy Monero directly in the app using card payments or bank transfers (through third-party providers such as [Guardarian](https://guardarian.com) or [DFX](https://dfx.swiss)).[^2] KYC is usually not required, but it depends on your country and the amount you are purchasing. In countries where directly purchasing Monero is not possible, you can also use a provider within Cake Wallet to first buy another cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, or Litecoin and then exchange it to Monero in-app.
- [Monero.com](https://monero.com) is an associated website where you can buy Monero and other cryptocurrencies without having to download an app. The funds will simply be sent to the wallet address of your choice.
- [RetoSwap](https://retoswap.com) (formerly known as Haveno-Reto) is a self-custody, decentralized P2P exchange platform based on the [Haveno](https://haveno.exchange) project which is available for Linux, Windows, and macOS. Monero can be bought and sold with maximum privacy, since most trading counterparties do not require KYC, trades are made directly between users (P2P), and all connections run through the Tor network. It is possible to buy Monero via bank transfer, Paypal, or even by paying in cash (meeting in person or sending by mail). Arbitrators can step in to resolve disputes between buyer and seller, but be careful when sharing your bank account or other sensitive information with your trading counterparty. Trading with some accounts may be against those accounts' terms of service.
- [RetoSwap](https://retoswap.com) (formerly known as Haveno-Reto) is a self-custody, decentralized P2P exchange platform based on the [Haveno](https://haveno.exchange) project which is available for Linux, Windows, and macOS. Monero can be bought and sold with maximum privacy, since most trading counterparties do not require KYC, trades are made directly between users (P2P), and all connections run through the Tor network. It is possible to buy Monero via bank transfer, PayPal, or even by paying in cash (meeting in person or sending by mail). Arbitrators can step in to resolve disputes between buyer and seller, but be careful when sharing your bank account or other sensitive information with your trading counterparty. Trading with some accounts may be against those accounts' terms of service.
## Criteria

6
docs/data-broker-removals.md
View file

@ -55,11 +55,11 @@ This sets you up on a nice schedule to re-review each website approximately ever
Once you have opted-out of all of these sites for the first time, it's best to wait a week or two for the requests to propagate to all their sites. Then, you can start to search and opt-out of any remaining sites you find. It can be a good idea to use a web crawler like [Google's *Results about you*](#google-results-about-you-free) tool to help find any data that remains on the internet.
Otherwise, privacy journalist Yael Grauer has compiled an excellent list of data broker sites with direct links to their search tools and opt-out pages. You can take some time to go though each site to determine whether they have your information, and remove it:
Otherwise, privacy journalist Yael Grauer has compiled an excellent list of data broker sites with direct links to their search tools and opt-out pages. You can take some time to go through each site to determine whether they have your information, and remove it:
[:simple-github: Big Ass Data Broker Opt-Out List](https://github.com/yaelwrites/Big-Ass-Data-Broker-Opt-Out-List){ .md-button }
If you don't use an automatic scanner to find results about you, consider setting a reminder to re-do this process every 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your risk level and the amount of personal data you have out there. Unfortunately, it is common for your data to re-appear over time or show up on brand new people search sites even after you opt-out.
If you don't use an automatic scanner to find results about you, consider setting a reminder to re-do this process every 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your risk level and the amount of personal data you have out there. Unfortunately, it is common for your data to re-appear over time or show up on brand-new people search sites even after you opt out.
## EasyOptOuts <small>Paid</small>
@ -124,7 +124,7 @@ In our testing, this tool worked to reliably remove people search sites from Goo
Our picks for removal services are primarily based on independent professional testing from third-parties as noted in the sections above, our own internal testing, and aggregated reviews from our community.
- Must not be a whitelabeled service or reseller of another provider.
- Must not be a white labeled service or reseller of another provider.
- Must not be affiliated with the data broker industry or purchase advertising on people search sites.
- Must only use your personal data for the purposes of opting you out of data broker databases and people search sites.

8
docs/desktop-browsers.md
View file

@ -108,7 +108,7 @@ This is required to prevent advanced forms of tracking, but does come at the cos
### Mullvad Leta
Mullvad Browser comes with DuckDuckGo set as the default [search engine](search-engines.md), but it also comes preinstalled with **Mullvad Leta**, a search engine which requires an active Mullvad VPN subscription to access. Mullvad Leta queries Google's paid search API directly, which is why it is limited to paying subscribers. However, it is possible for Mullvad to correlate search queries and Mullvad VPN accounts because of this limitation. For this reason we discourage the use of Mullvad Leta, even though Mullvad collects very little information about their VPN subscribers.
Mullvad Browser comes with DuckDuckGo set as the default [search engine](search-engines.md), but it also comes pre-installed with **Mullvad Leta**, a search engine which requires an active Mullvad VPN subscription to access. Mullvad Leta queries Google's paid search API directly, which is why it is limited to paying subscribers. However, it is possible for Mullvad to correlate search queries and Mullvad VPN accounts because of this limitation. For this reason we discourage the use of Mullvad Leta, even though Mullvad collects very little information about their VPN subscribers.
## Firefox
@ -188,7 +188,7 @@ According to Mozilla's privacy policy for Firefox,
> Firefox sends data about your Firefox version and language; device operating system and hardware configuration; memory, basic information about crashes and errors; outcome of automated processes like updates, safebrowsing, and activation to us. When Firefox sends data to us, your IP address is temporarily collected as part of our server logs.
Additionally, the Mozilla Accounts service collects [some technical data](https://mozilla.org/privacy/mozilla-accounts). If you use a Mozilla Account you can opt-out:
Additionally, the Mozilla Accounts service collects [some technical data](https://mozilla.org/privacy/mozilla-accounts). If you use a Mozilla Account you can opt out:
1. Open your [profile settings on accounts.firefox.com](https://accounts.firefox.com/settings#data-collection)
2. Uncheck **Data Collection and Use** > **Help improve Firefox Accounts**
@ -203,7 +203,7 @@ With the release of Firefox 128, a new setting for [privacy-preserving attributi
- [x] Select **Enable HTTPS-Only Mode in all windows**
This prevents you from unintentionally connecting to a website in plain-text HTTP. Sites without HTTPS are uncommon nowadays, so this should have little to no impact on your day to day browsing.
This prevents you from unintentionally connecting to a website in plain-text HTTP. Sites without HTTPS are uncommon nowadays, so this should have little to no impact on your day-to-day browsing.
##### DNS over HTTPS
@ -296,7 +296,7 @@ Brave allows you to select additional content filters within the internal `brave
</div>
1. This option disables JavaScript, which will break a lot of sites. To unbreak them, you can set exceptions on a per-site basis by clicking on the Shield icon in the address bar and unchecking this setting under *Advanced controls*.
1. This option disables JavaScript, which will break a lot of sites. To fix them, you can set exceptions on a per-site basis by clicking on the Shield icon in the address bar and unchecking this setting under *Advanced controls*.
2. If you wish to stay logged in to a particular site you visit often, you can set exceptions on a per-site basis by clicking on the Shield icon in the address bar and unchecking this setting under *Advanced controls*.
#### Privacy and security

4
docs/desktop.md
View file

@ -100,7 +100,7 @@ These operating systems differ from Fedora Workstation as they replace the [DNF]
After the update is complete, you will reboot the system into the new deployment. `rpm-ostree` keeps two deployments of the system so that you can easily roll back if something breaks in the new deployment. There is also the option to pin more deployments as needed.
[Flatpak](https://flatpak.org) is the primary package installation method on these distributions, as `rpm-ostree` is only meant to overlay packages that cannot stay inside of a container on top of the base image.
[Flatpak](https://flatpak.org) is the primary package installation method on these distributions, as `rpm-ostree` is only meant to overlay packages that cannot stay inside a container on top of the base image.
As an alternative to Flatpaks, there is the option of [Toolbx](https://docs.fedoraproject.org/en-US/fedora-silverblue/toolbox) to create [Podman](https://podman.io) containers which mimic a traditional Fedora environment, a [useful feature](https://containertoolbx.org) for the discerning developer. These containers share a home directory with the host operating system.
@ -122,7 +122,7 @@ NixOS is an independent distribution based on the Nix package manager with a foc
NixOS’s package manager keeps every version of every package in a different folder in the **Nix store**. Due to this you can have different versions of the same package installed on your system. After the package contents have been written to the folder, the folder is made read-only.
NixOS also provides atomic updates. It first downloads (or builds) the packages and files for the new system generation and then switches to it. There are different ways to switch to a new generation: you can tell NixOS to activate it after reboot or you can switch to it at runtime. You can also *test* the new generation by switching to it at runtime, but not setting it as the current system generation. If something in the update process breaks, you can just reboot and automatically and return to a working version of your system.
NixOS also provides atomic updates. It first downloads (or builds) the packages and files for the new system generation and then switches to it. There are different ways to switch to a new generation: you can tell NixOS to activate it after reboot, or you can switch to it at runtime. You can also *test* the new generation by switching to it at runtime, but not setting it as the current system generation. If something in the update process breaks, you can just reboot and automatically and return to a working version of your system.
The Nix package manager uses a purely functional language—which is also called Nix—to define packages.

4
docs/device-integrity.md
View file

@ -28,7 +28,7 @@ This means an attacker would have to regularly re-infect your device to retain a
If any of the following tools indicate a potential compromise by spyware such as Pegasus, Predator, or KingsPawn, we advise that you contact:
- If you are a human rights defender, journalist, or from a civil society organization: [Amnesty International's Security Lab](https://securitylab.amnesty.org/contact-us)
- If a business or government device is compromised: the appropriate security liason at your enterprise, department, or agency
- If a business or government device is compromised: the appropriate security liaison at your enterprise, department, or agency
- Local law enforcement
**We are unable to help you directly beyond this.** We are happy to discuss your specific situation or circumstances and review your results in our [community](https://discuss.privacyguides.net) spaces, but it is unlikely we can assist you beyond what is written on this page.
@ -128,7 +128,7 @@ MVT allows you to perform deeper scans/analysis if your device is jailbroken. Un
</div>
iMazing automates and interactively guides you through the process of using [MVT](#mobile-verification-toolkit) to scan your device for publicly-accessible indicators of compromise published by various threat researchers. All of the information and warnings which apply to MVT apply to this tool as well, so we suggest you also familiarize yourself with the notes on MVT in the sections above.
iMazing automates and interactively guides you through the process of using [MVT](#mobile-verification-toolkit) to scan your device for publicly-accessible indicators of compromise published by various threat researchers. All the information and warnings which apply to MVT apply to this tool as well, so we suggest you also familiarize yourself with the notes on MVT in the sections above.
## On-Device Verification

4
docs/dns.md
View file

@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ AdGuard Home features a polished web interface to view insights and manage block
## Cloud-Based DNS Filtering
These DNS filtering solutions offer a web dashboard where you can customize the blocklists to your exact needs, similarly to a Pi-hole. These services are usually easier to set up and configure than self-hosted services like the ones above, and can be used more easily across multiple networks (self-hosted solutions are typically restricted to your home/local network unless you set up a more advanced configuration).
These DNS filtering solutions offer a web dashboard where you can customize the block lists to your exact needs, similarly to a Pi-hole. These services are usually easier to set up and configure than self-hosted services like the ones above, and can be used more easily across multiple networks (self-hosted solutions are typically restricted to your home/local network unless you set up a more advanced configuration).
### Control D
@ -168,7 +168,7 @@ Encrypted DNS proxy software provides a local proxy for the [unencrypted DNS](ad
</div>
While RethinkDNS takes up the Android VPN slot, you can still use a VPN or Orbot with the app by [adding a Wireguard configuration](https://docs.rethinkdns.com/proxy/wireguard) or [manually configuring Orbot as a Proxy server](https://docs.rethinkdns.com/firewall/orbot), respectively.
While RethinkDNS takes up the Android VPN slot, you can still use a VPN or Orbot with the app by [adding a WireGuard configuration](https://docs.rethinkdns.com/proxy/wireguard) or [manually configuring Orbot as a Proxy server](https://docs.rethinkdns.com/firewall/orbot), respectively.
### dnscrypt-proxy

2
docs/document-collaboration.md
View file

@ -85,4 +85,4 @@ In general, we define collaboration platforms as full-fledged suites which could
Our best-case criteria represents what we would like to see from the perfect project in this category. Our recommendations may not include any or all of this functionality, but those which do may rank higher than others on this page.
- Should store files in a conventional filesystem.
- Should support TOTP or FIDO2 multi-factor authentication support, or passkey logins.
- Should support TOTP or FIDO2 multifactor authentication support, or passkey logins.

2
docs/email-aliasing.md
View file

@ -79,7 +79,7 @@ If you cancel your subscription, you will still enjoy the features of your paid
<div class="admonition recommendation" markdown>
![Simplelogin logo](assets/img/email-aliasing/simplelogin.svg){ align=right }
![SimpleLogin logo](assets/img/email-aliasing/simplelogin.svg){ align=right }
**SimpleLogin** is a free service which provides email aliases on a variety of shared domain names, and optionally provides paid features like unlimited aliases and custom domains.

22
docs/email.md
View file

@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ OpenPGP also does not support Forward secrecy, which means if either your or the
![Proton Mail logo](assets/img/email/protonmail.svg){ align=right }
**Proton Mail** is an email service with a focus on privacy, encryption, security, and ease of use. They have been in operation since 2013. Proton AG is based in Genève, Switzerland. The Proton Mail Free plan comes with 500MB of Mail storage, which you can increase up to 1GB for free.
**Proton Mail** is an email service with a focus on privacy, encryption, security, and ease of use. They have been in operation since 2013. Proton AG is based in Geneva, Switzerland. The Proton Mail Free plan comes with 500 MB of Mail storage, which you can increase up to 1 GB for free.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://proton.me/mail){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:simple-torbrowser:](https://protonmailrmez3lotccipshtkleegetolb73fuirgj7r4o4vfu7ozyd.onion){ .card-link title="Onion Service" }
@ -94,7 +94,7 @@ Proton Mail [accepts](https://proton.me/support/payment-options) cash by mail in
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Account Security
Proton Mail supports TOTP [two factor authentication](https://proton.me/support/two-factor-authentication-2fa) and [hardware security keys](https://proton.me/support/2fa-security-key) using FIDO2 or U2F standards. The use of a hardware security key requires setting up TOTP two factor authentication first.
Proton Mail supports TOTP [two-factor authentication](https://proton.me/support/two-factor-authentication-2fa) and [hardware security keys](https://proton.me/support/2fa-security-key) using FIDO2 or U2F standards. The use of a hardware security key requires setting up TOTP two-factor authentication first.
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Data Security
@ -114,7 +114,7 @@ If you have a paid account and your [bill is unpaid](https://proton.me/support/d
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Additional Functionality
Proton Mail's [Unlimited](https://proton.me/support/proton-plans#proton-unlimited) plan also enables access to other Proton services in addition to providing multiple custom domains, unlimited hide-my-email aliases, and 500GB of storage.
Proton Mail's [Unlimited](https://proton.me/support/proton-plans#proton-unlimited) plan also enables access to other Proton services in addition to providing multiple custom domains, unlimited hide-my-email aliases, and 500 GB of storage.
Proton Mail doesn't offer a digital legacy feature.
@ -124,7 +124,7 @@ Proton Mail doesn't offer a digital legacy feature.
![Mailbox.org logo](assets/img/email/mailboxorg.svg){ align=right }
**Mailbox.org** is an email service with a focus on being secure, ad-free, and privately powered by 100% eco-friendly energy. They have been in operation since 2014. Mailbox.org is based in Berlin, Germany. Accounts start with up to 2GB storage, which can be upgraded as needed.
**Mailbox.org** is an email service with a focus on being secure, ad-free, and privately powered by 100% eco-friendly energy. They have been in operation since 2014. Mailbox.org is based in Berlin, Germany. Accounts start with up to 2 GB storage, which can be upgraded as needed.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://mailbox.org){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://mailbox.org/en/data-protection-privacy-policy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -145,11 +145,11 @@ Mailbox.org lets you use your own domain, and they support [catch-all](https://k
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Private Payment Methods
Mailbox.org doesn't accept any cryptocurrencies as a result of their payment processor BitPay suspending operations in Germany. However, they do accept cash by mail, cash payment to bank account, bank transfer, credit card, PayPal and couple of German-specific processors: paydirekt and Sofortüberweisung.
Mailbox.org doesn't accept any cryptocurrencies as a result of their payment processor BitPay suspending operations in Germany. However, they do accept cash by mail, cash payment to bank account, bank transfer, credit card, PayPal and a couple of German-specific processors: paydirekt and Sofortüberweisung.
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Account Security
Mailbox.org supports [two factor authentication](https://kb.mailbox.org/en/private/account-article/how-to-use-two-factor-authentication-2fa) for their webmail only. You can use either TOTP or a [YubiKey](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/YubiKey) via the [YubiCloud](https://yubico.com/products/services-software/yubicloud). Web standards such as [WebAuthn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WebAuthn) are not yet supported.
Mailbox.org supports [two-factor authentication](https://kb.mailbox.org/en/private/account-article/how-to-use-two-factor-authentication-2fa) for their webmail only. You can use either TOTP or a [YubiKey](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/YubiKey) via the [YubiCloud](https://yubico.com/products/services-software/yubicloud). Web standards such as [WebAuthn](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WebAuthn) are not yet supported.
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Data Security
@ -169,7 +169,7 @@ Your account will be set to a restricted user account when your contract ends. I
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Additional Functionality
You can access your Mailbox.org account via IMAP/SMTP using their [.onion service](https://kb.mailbox.org/en/private/faq-article/the-tor-exit-node-of-mailbox-org). However, their webmail interface cannot be accessed via their .onion service and you may experience TLS certificate errors.
You can access your Mailbox.org account via IMAP/SMTP using their [.onion service](https://kb.mailbox.org/en/private/faq-article/the-tor-exit-node-of-mailbox-org). However, their webmail interface cannot be accessed via their .onion service, and you may experience TLS certificate errors.
All accounts come with limited cloud storage that [can be encrypted](https://kb.mailbox.org/en/private/drive-article/encrypt-files-on-your-drive). Mailbox.org also offers the alias [@secure.mailbox.org](https://kb.mailbox.org/en/private/e-mail-article/ensuring-e-mails-are-sent-securely), which enforces the TLS encryption on the connection between mail servers, otherwise the message will not be sent at all. Mailbox.org also supports [Exchange ActiveSync](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange_ActiveSync) in addition to standard access protocols like IMAP and POP3.
@ -192,7 +192,7 @@ These providers store your emails with zero-knowledge encryption, making them gr
![Tuta logo](assets/img/email/tuta.svg#only-light){ align=right }
![Tuta logo](assets/img/email/tuta-dark.svg#only-dark){ align=right }
**Tuta** (formerly *Tutanota*) is an email service with a focus on security and privacy through the use of encryption. Tuta has been in operation since 2011 and is based in Hanover, Germany. Free accounts start with 1GB of storage.
**Tuta** (formerly *Tutanota*) is an email service with a focus on security and privacy through the use of encryption. Tuta has been in operation since 2011 and is based in Hanover, Germany. Free accounts start with 1 GB of storage.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://tuta.com){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://tuta.com/privacy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -223,11 +223,11 @@ Paid Tuta accounts can use either 15 or 30 aliases depending on their plan and u
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Private Payment Methods
Tuta only directly accepts credit cards and PayPal, however [cryptocurrency](cryptocurrency.md) can be used to purchase gift cards via their [partnership](https://tuta.com/support/#cryptocurrency) with Proxystore.
Tuta only directly accepts credit cards and PayPal, however [cryptocurrency](cryptocurrency.md) can be used to purchase gift cards via their [partnership](https://tuta.com/support/#cryptocurrency) with ProxyStore.
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Account Security
Tuta supports [two factor authentication](https://tuta.com/support#2fa) with either TOTP or U2F.
Tuta supports [two-factor authentication](https://tuta.com/support#2fa) with either TOTP or U2F.
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Data Security
@ -294,7 +294,7 @@ We regard these features as important in order to provide a safe and optimal ser
**Minimum to Qualify:**
- Encrypts email account data at rest with zero-access encryption.
- Export capability as [Mbox](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mbox) or individual .eml with [RFC5322](https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/rfc5322) standard.
- Export capability as [Mbox](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mbox) or individual .EML with [RFC5322](https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/rfc5322) standard.
- Allow users to use their own [domain name](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domain_name). Custom domain names are important to users because it allows them to maintain their agency from the service, should it turn bad or be acquired by another company which doesn't prioritize privacy.
- Operates on owned infrastructure, i.e. not built upon third-party email service providers.

4
docs/encryption.md
View file

@ -114,7 +114,7 @@ VeraCrypt is a fork of the discontinued TrueCrypt project. According to its deve
When encrypting with VeraCrypt, you have the option to select from different [hash functions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VeraCrypt#Encryption_scheme). We suggest you **only** select [SHA-512](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SHA-512) and stick to the [AES](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Encryption_Standard) block cipher.
Truecrypt has been [audited a number of times](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TrueCrypt#Security_audits), and VeraCrypt has also been [audited separately](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VeraCrypt#VeraCrypt_audit).
TrueCrypt has been [audited a number of times](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TrueCrypt#Security_audits), and VeraCrypt has also been [audited separately](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VeraCrypt#VeraCrypt_audit).
## Operating System Encryption
@ -188,7 +188,7 @@ Backup `BitLocker-Recovery-Key.txt` on your Desktop to a separate storage device
![FileVault logo](assets/img/encryption-software/filevault.png){ align=right }
**FileVault** is the on-the-fly volume encryption solution built into macOS. FileVault takes advantage of the [hardware security capabilities](os/macos-overview.md#hardware-security) present on an Apple silicon SoC or T2 Security Chip.
**FileVault** is the on-the-fly volume encryption solution built into macOS. FileVault takes advantage of the [hardware security capabilities](os/macos-overview.md#hardware-security) present on an Apple Silicon SoC or T2 Security Chip.
[:octicons-info-16:](https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/encrypt-mac-data-with-filevault-mh11785/mac){ .card-link title="Documentation" }

2
docs/file-sharing.md
View file

@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ Discover how to privately share your files between your devices, with your frien
## File Sharing
If you have already use [Proton Drive](cloud.md#proton-drive)[^1] or have a [Bitwarden](passwords.md#bitwarden) Premium[^2] subscription, consider using the file sharing capabilities that they each offer, both of which use end-to-end encryption. Otherwise, the standalone options listed here ensure that the files you share are not read by a remote server.
If you already use [Proton Drive](cloud.md#proton-drive)[^1] or have a [Bitwarden](passwords.md#bitwarden) Premium[^2] subscription, consider using the file sharing capabilities that they each offer, both of which use end-to-end encryption. Otherwise, the standalone options listed here ensure that the files you share are not read by a remote server.
### Send

2
docs/frontends.md
View file

@ -250,7 +250,7 @@ By default, LibreTube blocks all YouTube advertisements. Additionally, LibreTube
<div class="admonition recommendation annotate" markdown>
![Newpipe logo](assets/img/frontends/newpipe.svg){ align=right }
![NewPipe logo](assets/img/frontends/newpipe.svg){ align=right }
**NewPipe** is a free and open-source Android application for [YouTube](https://youtube.com), [SoundCloud](https://soundcloud.com), [media.ccc.de](https://media.ccc.de), [Bandcamp](https://bandcamp.com), and [PeerTube](https://joinpeertube.org) (1).

8
docs/index.md
View file

@ -90,7 +90,7 @@ Trying to protect all your data from everyone all the time is impractical, expen
---
Proton Mail is an email service with a focus on privacy, encryption, security, and ease of use. They have been in operation since 2013. Proton AG is based in Genève, Switzerland. The Proton Mail Free plan comes with 500MB of Mail storage, which you can increase up to 1GB for free.
Proton Mail is an email service with a focus on privacy, encryption, security, and ease of use. They have been in operation since 2013. Proton AG is based in Geneva, Switzerland. The Proton Mail Free plan comes with 500 MB of Mail storage, which you can increase up to 1 GB for free.
[:octicons-arrow-right-24: Read Full Review](email.md#proton-mail)
@ -98,7 +98,7 @@ Trying to protect all your data from everyone all the time is impractical, expen
---
Mailbox.org is an email service with a focus on being secure, ad-free, and privately powered by 100% eco-friendly energy. They have been in operation since 2014. Mailbox.org is based in Berlin, Germany. Accounts start with up to 2GB storage, which can be upgraded as needed.
Mailbox.org is an email service with a focus on being secure, ad-free, and privately powered by 100% eco-friendly energy. They have been in operation since 2014. Mailbox.org is based in Berlin, Germany. Accounts start with up to 2 GB storage, which can be upgraded as needed.
[:octicons-arrow-right-24: Read Full Review](email.md#mailboxorg)
@ -106,7 +106,7 @@ Trying to protect all your data from everyone all the time is impractical, expen
---
Tuta (formerly *Tutanota*) is an email service with a focus on security and privacy through the use of encryption. Tuta has been in operation since 2011 and is based in Hanover, Germany. Free accounts start with 1GB of storage.
Tuta (formerly *Tutanota*) is an email service with a focus on security and privacy through the use of encryption. Tuta has been in operation since 2011 and is based in Hanover, Germany. Free accounts start with 1 GB of storage.
[:octicons-arrow-right-24: Read Full Review](email.md#tuta)
@ -176,7 +176,7 @@ As seen in **WIRED**, **Tweakers.net**, **The New York Times**, and many other p
<div markdown>
## What are privacy tools?
We recommend a wide variety of **privacy tools** (a.k.a. *privacy apps*, *privacy utilities*, *privacy software*) spanning software and hardware that you can adopt to improve your privacy. Many of the tools we recommend are completely free to use and open-source software, while some are commercial services available for purchase. Switching from mainstream data-hungry software like Google Chrome and Windows to privacy-focused tools like [Brave](desktop-browsers.md#brave) and [Linux](desktop.md) can go a long way towards controlling the information you share with companies and others.
We recommend a wide variety of **privacy tools** (a.k.a. *privacy apps*, *privacy utilities*, *privacy software*) spanning software and hardware that you can use to improve your privacy. Many of the tools we recommend are completely free to use and open-source software, while some are commercial services available for purchase. Switching from mainstream data-hungry software like Google Chrome and Windows to privacy-focused tools like [Brave](desktop-browsers.md#brave) and [Linux](desktop.md) can go a long way towards controlling the information you share with companies and others.
[:material-check-all: Our General Criteria](about/criteria.md){ class="md-button" }
</div>

2
docs/meta/brand.md
View file

@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ The name of the website is **Privacy Guides** and should **not** be changed to:
- PG.org
</div>
The name of the subreddit is **r/PrivacyGuides** or **the Privacy Guides Subreddit**.
The name of the Subreddit is **r/PrivacyGuides** or **the Privacy Guides Subreddit**.
Additional branding guidelines can be found at [github.com/privacyguides/brand](https://github.com/privacyguides/brand)

4
docs/meta/translations.md
View file

@ -27,8 +27,8 @@ For examples like the above admonitions, quotation marks, e.g.: `" "` must be us
## Fullwidth alternatives and Markdown syntax
CJK writing systems tend to use alternative "fullwidth" variants of common symbols. These are different characters and cannot be used for markdown syntax.
CJK writing systems tend to use alternative "fullwidth" variants of common symbols. These are different characters and cannot be used for Markdown syntax.
- Links must use regular parenthesis ie `(` (Left Parenthesis U+0028) and `)` (Right Parenthesis U+0029) and not `（` (Fullwidth Left Parenthesis U+FF08) or `）` (Fullwidth Right Parenthesis U+FF09)
- Links must use regular parenthesis i.e. `(` (Left Parenthesis U+0028) and `)` (Right Parenthesis U+0029) and not `（` (Fullwidth Left Parenthesis U+FF08) or `）` (Fullwidth Right Parenthesis U+FF09)
- Indented quoted text must use `:` (Colon U+003A) and not `：` (Fullwidth Colon U+FF1A)
- Pictures must use `!` (Exclamation Mark U+0021) and not `！` (Fullwidth Exclamation Mark U+FF01)

2
docs/meta/uploading-images.md
View file

@ -48,7 +48,7 @@ In the **SVG Output** tab under **Document options**:
- [ ] Turn off **Remove the XML declaration**
- [x] Turn on **Remove metadata**
- [x] Turn on **Remove comments**
- [x] Turn on **Embeded raster images**
- [x] Turn on **Embedded raster images**
- [x] Turn on **Enable viewboxing**
In the **SVG Output** under **Pretty-printing**:

2
docs/meta/writing-style.md
View file

@ -64,7 +64,7 @@ We should try to avoid abbreviations where possible, but technology is full of a
## Be concise
> Unnecessary words waste your audience’s time. Great writing is like a conversation. Omit information that the audience doesn’t need to know. This can be difficult as a subject matter expert so it’s important to have someone look at the information from the audience’s perspective.
> Unnecessary words waste your audience’s time. Great writing is like a conversation. Omit information that the audience doesn’t need to know. This can be difficult as a subject-matter expert, so it’s important to have someone look at the information from the audience’s perspective.
Source: [plainlanguage.gov](https://plainlanguage.gov/guidelines/concise)

6
docs/mobile-browsers.md
View file

@ -246,7 +246,7 @@ This prevents you from unintentionally connecting to a website in plain-text HTT
These options can be found in :material-menu: → :gear: **Settings** → **Adblock Plus settings**.
Cromite contains a customized version of Adblock Plus with EasyList enabled by default, as well as options to select more filter lists within the **FIlter lists** menu.
Cromite contains a customized version of Adblock Plus with EasyList enabled by default, as well as options to select more filter lists within the **Filter lists** menu.
Using extra lists will make you stand out from other Cromite users and may also increase attack surface if a malicious rule is added to one of the lists you use.
@ -270,7 +270,7 @@ On iOS, any app that can browse the web is [restricted](https://developer.apple.
![Safari logo](assets/img/browsers/safari.svg){ align=right }
**Safari** is the default browser in iOS. It includes [privacy features](https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/browse-the-web-privately-iphb01fc3c85/ios) such as [Intelligent Tracking Prevention](https://webkit.org/blog/7675/intelligent-tracking-prevention), isolated and ephemeral Private Browsing tabs, fingerprinting protection (by presenting a simplified version of the system configuration to websites so more devices look identical), and fingerprint randomization, as well as Private Relay for those with a paid iCloud+ subscription.
**Safari** is the default browser in iOS. It includes [privacy features](https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/browse-the-web-privately-iphb01fc3c85/ios) such as [Intelligent Tracking Prevention](https://webkit.org/blog/7675/intelligent-tracking-prevention), isolated and ephemeral Private Browsing tabs, fingerprinting protection (by presenting a simplified version of the system configuration to websites, so more devices look identical), and fingerprint randomization, as well as Private Relay for those with a paid iCloud+ subscription.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://apple.com/safari){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://apple.com/legal/privacy/data/en/safari){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -371,7 +371,7 @@ Open Safari and tap the Tabs button, located in the bottom right. Then, expand t
- [x] Select **Private**
Safari's Private Browsing mode offers additional privacy protections. Private Browsing uses a new [ephemeral](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/foundation/urlsessionconfiguration/1410529-ephemeral) session for each tab, meaning tabs are isolated from one another. There are also other smaller privacy benefits with Private Browsing, such as not sending a webpage’s address to Apple when using Safari's translation feature.
Safari's Private Browsing mode offers additional privacy protections. Private Browsing uses a new [ephemeral](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/foundation/urlsessionconfiguration/1410529-ephemeral) session for each tab, meaning tabs are isolated from one another. There are other smaller privacy benefits with Private Browsing too, such as not sending a webpage’s address to Apple when using Safari's translation feature.
Do note that Private Browsing does not save cookies and website data, so it won't be possible to remain signed in to sites. This may be an inconvenience.

8
docs/multi-factor-authentication.md
View file

@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
---
title: "Multi-Factor Authentication"
title: "Multifactor Authentication"
icon: 'material/two-factor-authentication'
description: These tools assist you with securing your internet accounts with Multi-Factor Authentication without sending your secrets to a third-party.
description: These tools assist you with securing your internet accounts with Multifactor Authentication without sending your secrets to a third-party.
cover: multi-factor-authentication.webp
---
<small>Protects against the following threat(s):</small>
@ -15,7 +15,7 @@ cover: multi-factor-authentication.webp
</div>
**Multi-Factor Authentication Apps** implement a security standard adopted by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) called **Time-based One-time Passwords**, or **TOTP**. This is a method where websites share a secret with you which is used by your authenticator app to generate a six (usually) digit code based on the current time, which you enter while logging in for the website to check. Typically these codes are regenerated every 30 seconds, and once a new code is generated the old one becomes useless. Even if a hacker gets one six-digit code, there is no way for them to reverse that code to get the original secret or otherwise be able to predict what any future codes might be.
**Multifactor Authentication Apps** implement a security standard adopted by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) called **Time-based One-time Passwords**, or **TOTP**. This is a method where websites share a secret with you which is used by your authenticator app to generate a six (usually) digit code based on the current time, which you enter while logging in for the website to check. Typically, these codes are regenerated every 30 seconds, and once a new code is generated the old one becomes useless. Even if a hacker gets one six-digit code, there is no way for them to reverse that code to get the original secret or otherwise be able to predict what any future codes might be.
We highly recommend that you use mobile TOTP apps instead of desktop alternatives as Android and iOS have better security and app isolation than most desktop operating systems.
@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ We highly recommend that you use mobile TOTP apps instead of desktop alternative
![Ente Auth logo](assets/img/multi-factor-authentication/ente-auth.svg){ align=right }
**Ente Auth** is a free and open-source app which stores and generates TOTP tokens. It can be used with an online account to backup and sync your tokens across your devices (and access them via a web interface) in a secure, end-to-end encrypted fashion. It can also be used offline on a single device with no account necessary.
**Ente Auth** is a free and open-source app which stores and generates TOTP tokens. It can be used with an online account to back up and sync your tokens across your devices (and access them via a web interface) in a secure, end-to-end encrypted fashion. It can also be used offline on a single device with no account necessary.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://ente.io/auth){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://ente.io/privacy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }

6
docs/news-aggregators.md
View file

@ -139,16 +139,16 @@ A **news aggregator** is software which aggregates digital content from online n
## Social Media RSS Support
Some social media services also support RSS although it's not often advertised.
Some social media services also support RSS, although it's not often advertised.
### Reddit
Reddit allows you to subscribe to subreddits via RSS.
Reddit allows you to subscribe to Subreddits via RSS.
<div class="admonition example" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Example</p>
Replace `[SUBREDDIT]` with the subreddit you wish to subscribe to.
Replace `[SUBREDDIT]` with the Subreddit you wish to subscribe to.
```text
https://reddit.com/r/[SUBREDDIT]/new/.rss

6
docs/notebooks.md
View file

@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ cover: notebooks.webp
- [:material-server-network: Service Providers](basics/common-threats.md#privacy-from-service-providers){ .pg-teal }
Keep track of your notes and journalings without giving them to a third-party.
Keep track of your notes and journals without giving them to a third party.
If you are currently using an application like Evernote, Google Keep, or Microsoft OneNote, we suggest you pick an alternative here that supports E2EE.
@ -83,7 +83,7 @@ Standard Notes has [joined Proton AG](https://standardnotes.com/blog/joining-for
![Joplin logo](assets/img/notebooks/joplin.svg){ align=right }
**Joplin** is a free, open-source, and fully-featured note-taking and to-do application which can handle a large number of markdown notes organized into notebooks and tags. It offers E2EE and can sync through Nextcloud, Dropbox, and more. It also offers easy import from Evernote and plain-text notes.
**Joplin** is a free, open-source, and fully-featured note-taking and to-do application which can handle numerous markdown notes organized into notebooks and tags. It offers E2EE and can sync through Nextcloud, Dropbox, and more. It also offers easy import from Evernote and plain-text notes.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://joplinapp.org){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://joplinapp.org/privacy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -133,7 +133,7 @@ Since January 2023, Joplin [supports biometrics](https://github.com/laurent22/jo
</div>
Cryptee offers 100MB of storage for free, with paid options if you need more. Sign-up doesn't require an e-mail or other personally identifiable information.
Cryptee offers 100 MB of storage for free, with paid options if you need more. Sign-up doesn't require an e-mail or other personally identifiable information.
## Local notebooks

6
docs/os/android-overview.md
View file

@ -83,7 +83,7 @@ If an app is mostly a web-based service, the tracking may occur on the server si
<div class="admonition note" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Note</p>
Privacy-friendly apps such as [Bitwarden](https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/reports/com.x8bit.bitwarden/latest) may show some trackers such as [Google Firebase Analytics](https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/trackers/49). This library includes [Firebase Cloud Messaging](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firebase_Cloud_Messaging) which can provide [push notifications](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Push_technology) in apps. This [is the case](https://fosstodon.org/@bitwarden/109636825700482007) with Bitwarden. That doesn't mean that Bitwarden is using all of the analytics features that are provided by Google Firebase Analytics.
Privacy-friendly apps such as [Bitwarden](https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/reports/com.x8bit.bitwarden/latest) may show some trackers such as [Google Firebase Analytics](https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org/en/trackers/49). This library includes [Firebase Cloud Messaging](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firebase_Cloud_Messaging) which can provide [push notifications](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Push_technology) in apps. This [is the case](https://fosstodon.org/@bitwarden/109636825700482007) with Bitwarden. That doesn't mean that Bitwarden is using all the analytics features that are provided by Google Firebase Analytics.
</div>
@ -113,7 +113,7 @@ Like user profiles, a private space is encrypted using its own encryption key, a
Unlike work profiles, Private Space is a feature native to Android that does not require a third-party app to manage it. For this reason, we generally recommend using a private space over a work profile, though you can use a work profile alongside a private space.
### VPN Killswitch
### VPN kill switch
Android 7 and above supports a VPN kill switch, and it is available without the need to install third-party apps. This feature can prevent leaks if the VPN is disconnected. It can be found in :gear: **Settings** → **Network & internet** → **VPN** → :gear: → **Block connections without VPN**.
@ -123,7 +123,7 @@ Modern Android devices have global toggles for disabling Bluetooth and location
## Google Services
If you are using a device with Google services—whether with the stock operating system or an operating system that safely sandboxes Google Play Services like GrapheneOS—there are a number of additional changes you can make to improve your privacy. We still recommend avoiding Google services entirely, or limiting Google Play services to a specific user/work profile by combining a device controller like *Shelter* with GrapheneOS's Sandboxed Google Play.
If you are using a device with Google services—whether with the stock operating system or an operating system that safely sandboxes Google Play Services like GrapheneOS—there are a number of additional changes you can make to improve your privacy. We still recommend avoiding Google services entirely, or limiting Google Play Services to a specific user/work profile by combining a device controller like *Shelter* with GrapheneOS's Sandboxed Google Play.
### Advanced Protection Program

8
docs/os/ios-overview.md
View file

@ -124,7 +124,7 @@ If you don't want anyone to be able to control your phone with Siri when it is l
#### Face ID/Touch ID & Passcode
Setting a strong password on your phone is the most important step you can take for physical device security. You'll have to make tradeoffs here between security and convenience: A longer password will be annoying to type in every time, but a shorter password or PIN will be easier to guess. Setting up Face ID or Touch ID along with a strong password can be a good compromise between usability and security.
Setting a strong password on your phone is the most important step you can take for physical device security. You'll have to make trade-offs here between security and convenience: A longer password will be annoying to type in every time, but a shorter password or PIN will be easier to guess. Setting up Face ID or Touch ID along with a strong password can be a good compromise between usability and security.
Select **Turn Passcode On** or **Change Passcode** → **Passcode Options** → **Custom Alphanumeric Code**. Make sure that you create a [secure password](../basics/passwords-overview.md).
@ -132,7 +132,7 @@ If you wish to use Face ID or Touch ID, you can go ahead and set it up now. Your
If you use biometrics, you should know how to turn them off quickly in an emergency. Holding down the side or power button and *either* volume button until you see the Slide to Power Off slider will disable biometrics, requiring your passcode to unlock. Your passcode will also be required after device restarts.
On some older devices, you may have to press the power button five times to disable biometrics instead, or for devices with Touch ID, you may just have to hold down the power button and nothing else. Make sure you try this in advance so you know which method works for your device.
On some older devices, you may have to press the power button five times to disable biometrics instead, or for devices with Touch ID, you may just have to hold down the power button and nothing else. Make sure you try this in advance, so you know which method works for your device.
**Stolen Device Protection** adds additional security intended to protect your personal data if your device is stolen while unlocked. If you use biometrics and the Find My Device feature in your Apple Account settings, we recommend enabling this new protection:
@ -246,7 +246,7 @@ Similarly, rather than allow an app to access all the contacts saved on your dev
iOS offers the ability to lock most apps behind Touch ID/Face ID or your passcode, which can be useful for protecting sensitive content in apps which do not provide the option themselves. You can lock an app by long-pressing on it and selecting **Require Face ID/Touch ID**. Any app locked in this way requires biometric authentication whenever opening it or accessing its contents in other apps. Also, notification previews for locked apps will not be shown.
In addition to locking apps behind biometrics, you can also hide apps so that they don't appear on the Home Screen, App Library, the app list in **Settings**, etc. While hiding apps may be useful in situations where you have to hand your unlocked phone to someone else, the concealment provided by the feature is not absolute, as a hidden app is still visible in some places such as the battery usage list. Moreover, one notable tradeoff of hiding an app is that you will not receive any of its notifications.
In addition to locking apps behind biometrics, you can also hide apps so that they don't appear on the Home Screen, App Library, the app list in **Settings**, etc. While hiding apps may be useful in situations where you have to hand your unlocked phone to someone else, the concealment provided by the feature is not absolute, as a hidden app is still visible in some places such as the battery usage list. Moreover, one notable trade off of hiding an app is that you will not receive any of its notifications.
You can hide an app by long-pressing on it and selecting **Require Face ID/Touch ID** → **Hide and Require Face ID/Touch ID**. Note that pre-installed Apple apps, as well as the default web browser and email app, cannot be hidden. Hidden apps reside in a **Hidden** folder at the bottom of the App Library, which can be unlocked using biometrics. This folder appears in the App Library whether you hid any apps or not, which provides you a degree of plausible deniability.
@ -259,7 +259,7 @@ If your device supports it, you can use the [Clean Up](https://support.apple.com
- Open the **Photos** app and tap the photo you have selected for redaction
- Tap the :material-tune: (at the bottom of the screen)
- Tap the button labeled **Clean Up**
- Draw a circle around whatever you want to redact. Faces will be pixelated and it will attempt to delete anything else.
- Draw a circle around whatever you want to redact. Faces will be pixelated, and it will attempt to delete anything else.
Our warning [against blurring text](../data-redaction.md) also applies here, so we recommend to instead add a black shape with 100% opacity over it. In addition to redacting text, you can also black out any face or object using the **Photos** app.

4
docs/os/linux-overview.md
View file

@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ Atomic updating distributions, on the other hand, apply updates in full or not a
The atomic update method can achieve reliability with this model and is used for [distributions](../desktop.md#atomic-distributions) like Silverblue and NixOS. [Adam Šamalík](https://twitter.com/adsamalik) provides a presentation on how `rpm-ostree` works with Silverblue:
- [Let's try Fedora Silverblue — an immutable desktop OS! - Adam Šamalik](https://youtu.be/aMo4ZlWznao) <small>(YouTube)</small>
- [Let's try Fedora Silverblue — an immutable desktop OS! - Adam Šamalík](https://youtu.be/aMo4ZlWznao) <small>(YouTube)</small>
### “Security-focused” distributions
@ -92,7 +92,7 @@ SELinux on [Fedora](https://docs.fedoraproject.org/en-US/quick-docs/selinux-gett
### Drive Encryption
Most Linux distributions have an option within its installer for enabling [LUKS](../encryption.md#linux-unified-key-setup) FDE. If this option isn’t set at installation time, you will have to backup your data and re-install, as encryption is applied after [disk partitioning](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disk_partitioning), but before [file systems](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File_system) are formatted. We also suggest securely erasing your storage device:
Most Linux distributions have an option within its installer for enabling [LUKS](../encryption.md#linux-unified-key-setup) FDE. If this option isn’t set at installation time, you will have to back up your data and re-install, as encryption is applied after [disk partitioning](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disk_partitioning), but before [file systems](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File_system) are formatted. We also suggest securely erasing your storage device:
- [Secure Data Erasure :material-arrow-right-drop-circle:](https://blog.privacyguides.org/2022/05/25/secure-data-erasure)

18
docs/os/macos-overview.md
View file

@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ description: macOS is Apple's desktop operating system that works with their har
---
**macOS** is a Unix operating system developed by Apple for their Mac computers. To enhance privacy on macOS, you can disable telemetry features and harden existing privacy and security settings.
Older Intel-based Macs and Hackintoshes do not support all the security features that macOS offers. To enhance data security, we recommend using a newer Mac with [Apple silicon](https://support.apple.com/HT211814).
Older Intel-based Macs and Hackintoshes do not support all the security features that macOS offers. To enhance data security, we recommend using a newer Mac with [Apple Silicon](https://support.apple.com/HT211814).
## Privacy Notes
@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ There are a few notable privacy concerns with macOS that you should consider. Th
### Activation Lock
Brand new Apple silicon devices can be set up without an internet connection. However, recovering or resetting your Mac will **require** an internet connection to Apple's servers to check against the Activation Lock database of lost or stolen devices.
Brand-new Apple Silicon devices can be set up without an internet connection. However, recovering or resetting your Mac will **require** an internet connection to Apple's servers to check against the Activation Lock database of lost or stolen devices.
### App Revocation Checks
@ -121,7 +121,7 @@ Decide whether you want personalized ads based on your usage.
##### FileVault
On modern devices with a Secure Enclave (Apple T2 Security Chip, Apple silicon), your data is always encrypted, but is decrypted automatically by a hardware key if your device doesn't detect it's been tampered with. Enabling [FileVault](../encryption.md#filevault) additionally requires your password to decrypt your data, greatly improving security, especially when powered off or before the first login after powering on.
On modern devices with a Secure Enclave (Apple T2 Security Chip, Apple Silicon), your data is always encrypted, but is decrypted automatically by a hardware key if your device doesn't detect it's been tampered with. Enabling [FileVault](../encryption.md#filevault) additionally requires your password to decrypt your data, greatly improving security, especially when powered off or before the first login after powering on.
On older Intel-based Mac computers, FileVault is the only form of disk encryption available by default, and should always be enabled.
@ -206,7 +206,7 @@ If an app is sandboxed, you should see the following output:
[Bool] true
```
If you find that the app you want to run is not sandboxed, then you may employ methods of [compartmentalization](../basics/common-threats.md#security-and-privacy) such as virtual machines or separate devices, use a similar app that is sandboxed, or choose to not use the unsandboxed app altogether.
If you find that the app you want to run is not sandboxed, then you may employ methods of [compartmentalization](../basics/common-threats.md#security-and-privacy) such as virtual machines or separate devices, use a similar app that is sandboxed, or choose to not use the non-sandboxed app altogether.
##### Hardened Runtime
@ -229,7 +229,7 @@ macOS comes with two forms of malware defense:
1. Protection against launching malware in the first place is provided by the App Store's review process for App Store applications, or *Notarization* (part of *Gatekeeper*), a process where third-party apps are scanned for known malware by Apple before they are allowed to run. Apps are required to be signed by the developers using a key given to them by Apple. This ensures that you are running software from the real developers. Notarization also requires that developers enable the Hardened Runtime for their apps, which limits methods of exploitation.
2. Protection against other malware and remediation from existing malware on your system is provided by *XProtect*, a more traditional antivirus software built-in to macOS.
We recommend against installing third-party antivirus software as they typically do not have the system-level access required to properly function anyways, because of Apple's limitations on third-party apps, and because granting the high levels of access they do ask for often poses an even greater security and privacy risk to your computer.
We recommend against installing third-party antivirus software as they typically do not have the system-level access required to properly function anyway, because of Apple's limitations on third-party apps, and because granting the high levels of access they do ask for often poses an even greater security and privacy risk to your computer.
##### Backups
@ -237,7 +237,7 @@ macOS comes with automatic backup software called [Time Machine](https://support
### Hardware Security
Many modern security features in macOS—such as modern Secure Boot, hardware-level exploit mitigation, OS integrity checks, and file-based encryption—rely on Apple silicon, and Apple's newer hardware always has the [best security](https://support.apple.com/guide/security/apple-soc-security-sec87716a080/1/web/1). We only encourage the use of Apple silicon, and not older Intel-based Mac computers or Hackintoshes.
Many modern security features in macOS—such as modern Secure Boot, hardware-level exploit mitigation, OS integrity checks, and file-based encryption—rely on Apple Silicon, and Apple's newer hardware always has the [best security](https://support.apple.com/guide/security/apple-soc-security-sec87716a080/1/web/1). We only encourage the use of Apple Silicon, and not older Intel-based Mac computers or Hackintoshes.
Some of these modern security features are available on older Intel-based Mac computers with the Apple T2 Security Chip, but that chip is susceptible to the *checkm8* exploit which could compromise its security.
@ -255,7 +255,7 @@ Mac computers can be configured to boot in three security modes: *Full Security*
#### Secure Enclave
The Secure Enclave is a security chip built into devices with Apple silicon which is responsible for storing and generating encryption keys for data at rest as well as Face ID and Touch ID data. It contains its own separate boot ROM.
The Secure Enclave is a security chip built into devices with Apple Silicon which is responsible for storing and generating encryption keys for data at rest as well as Face ID and Touch ID data. It contains its own separate boot ROM.
You can think of the Secure Enclave as your device's security hub: it has an AES encryption engine and a mechanism to securely store your encryption keys, and it's separated from the rest of the system, so even if the main processor is compromised, it should still be safe.
@ -267,7 +267,7 @@ Your biometric data never leaves your device; it's stored only in the Secure Enc
#### Hardware Microphone Disconnect
All laptops with Apple silicon or the T2 chip feature a hardware disconnect for the built-in microphone whenever the lid is closed. This means that there is no way for an attacker to listen to your Mac's microphone even if the operating system is compromised.
All laptops with Apple Silicon or the T2 chip feature a hardware disconnect for the built-in microphone whenever the lid is closed. This means that there is no way for an attacker to listen to your Mac's microphone even if the operating system is compromised.
Note that the camera does not have a hardware disconnect, since its view is obscured when the lid is closed anyway.
@ -286,7 +286,7 @@ When it is necessary to use one of these processors, Apple works with the vendor
#### Direct Memory Access Protections
Apple silicon separates each component that requires direct memory access. For example, a Thunderbolt port can't access memory designated for the kernel.
Apple Silicon separates each component that requires direct memory access. For example, a Thunderbolt port can't access memory designated for the kernel.
## Sources

6
docs/os/windows/group-policies.md
View file

@ -2,9 +2,9 @@
title: Group Policy Settings
description: A quick guide to configuring Group Policy to make Windows a bit more privacy respecting.
---
Outside of modifying the registry itself, the **Local Group Policy Editor** is the most powerful way to change many aspects of your system without installing third-party tools. Changing these settings requires [Pro Edition](index.md#windows-editions) or better.
Outside modifying the registry itself, the **Local Group Policy Editor** is the most powerful way to change many aspects of your system without installing third-party tools. Changing these settings requires [Pro Edition](index.md#windows-editions) or better.
These settings should be set on a brand new installation of Windows. Setting them on your existing installation should work, but may introduce unpredictible behavior and is done at your own risk.
These settings should be set on a brand-new installation of Windows. Setting them on your existing installation should work, but may introduce unpredictable behavior and is done at your own risk.
All of these settings have an explanation attached to them in the Group Policy editor which explains exactly what they do, usually in great detail. Please pay attention to those descriptions as you make changes, so you know exactly what we are recommending here. We've also explained some of our choices below whenever the explanation included with Windows is inadequate.
@ -67,7 +67,7 @@ Setting the cipher strength for the Windows 7 policy still applies that strength
- Require additional authentication at startup: **Enabled**
- Allow enhanced PINs for startup: **Enabled**
Despite the names of these policies, this doesn't *require* you to do anything by default, but it will unlock the *option* to have a more complex setup (such as requiring a PIN at startup in addition to the TPM) in the Bitlocker setup wizard.
Despite the names of these policies, this doesn't *require* you to do anything by default, but it will unlock the *option* to have a more complex setup (such as requiring a PIN at startup in addition to the TPM) in the BitLocker setup wizard.
#### Cloud Content

10
docs/os/windows/index.md
View file

@ -20,13 +20,13 @@ You can enhance your privacy and security on Windows without downloading any thi
<div class="admonition example" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">This section is new</p>
This section is a work in progress, because it takes considerably more time and effort to make a Windows installation more privacy friendly than other operating systems.
This section is a work in progress, because it takes considerably more time and effort to make a Windows installation more privacy-friendly than other operating systems.
</div>
## Privacy Notes
Microsoft Windows, particularly those versions aimed at consumers like the **Home** version often don't prioritize privacy friendly features by [default](https://theguardian.com/technology/2015/jul/31/windows-10-microsoft-faces-criticism-over-privacy-default-settings). As a result we often see more [data collection](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Microsoft#Telemetry_and_data_collection) than necessary, without any real warnings that this is the default behavior. In an attempt to compete with Google in the advertising space, [Cortana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cortana_(virtual_assistant)) has included unique identifiers such as an "advertising ID" in order to correlate usage and assist advertisers in targeted advertising. At launch, telemetry could not be disabled in non-enterprise editions of Windows 10. It still cannot be disabled, but Microsoft added the ability to [reduce](https://extremetech.com/computing/243079-upcoming-windows-update-reduces-spying-microsoft-still-mum-data-collects) the data that is sent to them.
Microsoft Windows, particularly those versions aimed at consumers like the **Home** version often don't prioritize privacy-friendly features by [default](https://theguardian.com/technology/2015/jul/31/windows-10-microsoft-faces-criticism-over-privacy-default-settings). As a result we often see more [data collection](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Microsoft#Telemetry_and_data_collection) than necessary, without any real warnings that this is the default behavior. In an attempt to compete with Google in the advertising space, [Cortana](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cortana_(virtual_assistant)) has included unique identifiers such as an "advertising ID" in order to correlate usage and assist advertisers in targeted advertising. At launch, telemetry could not be disabled in non-enterprise editions of Windows 10. It still cannot be disabled, but Microsoft added the ability to [reduce](https://extremetech.com/computing/243079-upcoming-windows-update-reduces-spying-microsoft-still-mum-data-collects) the data that is sent to them.
With Windows 11 there are a number of restrictions or defaults such as:
@ -42,11 +42,11 @@ Microsoft often uses the automatic updates feature to add new functionality to y
## Windows Editions
Many critical privacy and security features are unfortunately locked away behind higher-cost editions of Windows, instead of being available in Windows **Home**. Some features missing from **Home** include Bitlocker Drive Encryption, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. In our Windows guides we will cover how to use all of these features appropriately, so having a premium edition of Windows will be necessary.
Many critical privacy and security features are unfortunately locked away behind higher-cost editions of Windows, instead of being available in Windows **Home**. Some features missing from **Home** include BitLocker Drive Encryption, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. In our Windows guides we will cover how to use all of these features appropriately, so having a premium edition of Windows will be necessary.
Windows **Enterprise** provides the most flexibility when it comes to configuring privacy and security settings built in to Windows. For example, they are the only editions that allow you to enable the highest level of restrictions on data sent to Microsoft via telemetry tools. Unfortunately, Enterprise is not available for retail purchase, so it may not be available to you.
The best version available for *retail* purchase is Windows **Pro** as it has nearly all of the features you'll want to use to secure your device, including Bitlocker, Hyper-V, etc. The only thing missing is some of the most restrictive limitations on Microsoft's telemetry unfortunately.
The best version available for *retail* purchase is Windows **Pro** as it has nearly all the features you'll want to use to secure your device, including BitLocker, Hyper-V, etc. The only thing missing is some of the most restrictive limitations on Microsoft's telemetry, unfortunately.
Students and teachers may be able to obtain a Windows **Education** (equivalent to Enterprise) or **Pro Education** license (equivalent to Pro) for free, including on personal devices, from their educational institution. Many schools partner with Microsoft via OnTheHub or Microsoft Azure for Education, so you can check those sites or your school's benefits page to see if you qualify. Whether or not you are able to get these licenses depends entirely on your institution. This may be the best way for many people to obtain an Enterprise-level edition of Windows for personal use. There are no additional privacy or security risks associated with using an Education license compared to the retail versions.
@ -58,6 +58,6 @@ Currently, only Windows 11 license keys are available for purchase, but these ke
The official [Media Creation Tool](https://microsoft.com/software-download/windows11) is the best way to put a Windows installer on a USB flash drive. Third-party tools like Rufus or Etcher may unexpectedly modify the files, which could lead to boot issues or other troubles when installing.
This tool only lets you install a **Home** or **Pro** installation, as there are no publicly available downloads for Windows **Enterprise** edition. If you have an **Enterprise** license key, you can easily upgrade a **Pro** installation. To do this, install Windows **Pro** without entering a license key during setup, then enter your **Enterprise** key in the Settings app after completing the install. Your **Pro** install will be upgraded to **Enterprise** automatically after entering a valid license key.
This tool only lets you install a **Home** or **Pro** installation, as there are no publicly available downloads for Windows **Enterprise** edition. If you have an **Enterprise** license key, you can easily upgrade a **Pro** installation. To do this, install Windows **Pro** without entering a license key during setup, then enter your **Enterprise** key in the Settings app after completing the installation. Your **Pro** install will be upgraded to **Enterprise** automatically after entering a valid license key.
If you are installing an **Education** license then you will typically have a private download link that will be provided alongside your license key when you obtain it from your institution's benefits portal.

6
docs/passwords.md
View file

@ -228,7 +228,7 @@ Bitwarden's server-side code is [open source](https://github.com/bitwarden/serve
With the acquisition of SimpleLogin in April 2022, Proton has offered a "hide-my-email" feature that lets you create 10 aliases (free plan) or unlimited aliases (paid plans).
The Proton Pass mobile apps and browser extension underwent an audit performed by Cure53 throughout May and June of 2023. The security analysis company concluded:
The Proton Pass mobile apps and browser extension underwent an audit performed by Cure53 throughout May and June 2023. The security analysis company concluded:
> Proton Pass apps and components leave a rather positive impression in terms of security.
@ -327,7 +327,7 @@ These options allow you to manage an encrypted password database locally.
![KeePassXC logo](assets/img/password-management/keepassxc.svg){ align=right }
**KeePassXC** is a community fork of KeePassX, a native cross-platform port of KeePass Password Safe, with the goal of extending and improving it with new features and bugfixes to provide a feature-rich, cross-platform, and modern open-source password manager.
**KeePassXC** is a community fork of KeePassX, a native cross-platform port of KeePass Password Safe, with the goal of extending and improving it with new features and bug fixes to provide a feature-rich, cross-platform, and modern open-source password manager.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://keepassxc.org){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://keepassxc.org/privacy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -357,7 +357,7 @@ KeePassXC stores its export data as [CSV](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comma-se
![KeePassDX logo](assets/img/password-management/keepassdx.svg){ align=right }
**KeePassDX** is a lightweight password manager for Android; it allows for editing encrypted data in a single file in KeePass format and can fill in forms in a secure way. The [pro version](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kunzisoft.keepass.pro) of the app allows you to unlock cosmetic content and non-standard protocol features, but more importantly, it helps and encourages development.
**KeePassDX** is a lightweight password manager for Android; it allows for editing encrypted data in a single file in KeePass format and can fill in forms securely. The [pro version](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kunzisoft.keepass.pro) of the app allows you to unlock cosmetic content and non-standard protocol features, but more importantly, it helps and encourages development.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://keepassdx.com){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-info-16:](https://github.com/Kunzisoft/KeePassDX/wiki){ .card-link title="Documentation" }

6
docs/photo-management.md
View file

@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ Most cloud **photo management solutions** like Google Photos, Flickr, and Amazon
![Ente logo](assets/img/photo-management/ente.svg#only-light){ align=right }
![Ente logo](assets/img/photo-management/ente-dark.svg#only-dark){ align=right }
**Ente Photos** is an end-to-end encrypted photo backup service which supports automatic backups on iOS and Android. Their code is fully open-source, both on the client side and on the server side. It is also [self-hostable](https://github.com/ente-io/ente/tree/main/server#self-hosting). The free plan offers 5GB of storage as long as you use the service at least once a year.
**Ente Photos** is an end-to-end encrypted photo backup service which supports automatic backups on iOS and Android. Their code is fully open-source, both on the client side and on the server side. It is also [self-hostable](https://github.com/ente-io/ente/tree/main/server#self-hosting). The free plan offers 5 GB of storage as long as you use the service at least once a year.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://ente.io){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://ente.io/privacy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -50,7 +50,7 @@ Ente Photos underwent an [audit by Cure53](https://ente.io/blog/cryptography-aud
![Stingle logo](assets/img/photo-management/stingle.png#only-light){ align=right }
![Stingle logo](assets/img/photo-management/stingle-dark.png#only-dark){ align=right }
**Stingle** is a gallery and camera application with built-in, end-to-end encrypted backup and sync functionality for your photos and videos. Storage starts at 1GB for free accounts on their cloud, or you can host your own Stingle API server for total independence.
**Stingle** is a gallery and camera application with built-in, end-to-end encrypted backup and sync functionality for your photos and videos. Storage starts at 1 GB for free accounts on their cloud, or you can host your own Stingle API server for total independence.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://stingle.org){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-eye-16:](https://stingle.org/privacy){ .card-link title="Privacy Policy" }
@ -99,7 +99,7 @@ Ente Photos underwent an [audit by Cure53](https://ente.io/blog/cryptography-aud
- Cloud-hosted providers must enforce end-to-end encryption.
- Must offer a free plan or trial period for testing.
- Must support TOTP or FIDO2 multi-factor authentication, or passkey logins.
- Must support TOTP or FIDO2 multifactor authentication, or passkey logins.
- Must offer a web interface which supports basic file management functionality.
- Must allow for easy exports of all files/documents.
- Must be open source.

2
docs/real-time-communication.md
View file

@ -258,7 +258,7 @@ Oxen requested an independent audit for Session in March 2020. The audit [conclu
> The overall security level of this application is good and makes it usable for privacy-concerned people.
Session has a [whitepaper](https://arxiv.org/pdf/2002.04609.pdf) describing the technical details of the app and protocol.
Session has a [white paper](https://arxiv.org/pdf/2002.04609.pdf) describing the technical details of the app and protocol.
## Criteria

2
docs/router.md
View file

@ -18,7 +18,7 @@ Below are a few alternative operating systems that can be used on routers, Wi-Fi
![OpenWrt logo](assets/img/router/openwrt.svg#only-light){ align=right }
![OpenWrt logo](assets/img/router/openwrt-dark.svg#only-dark){ align=right }
**OpenWrt** is a Linux-based operating system; it's primarily used on embedded devices to route network traffic. It includes util-linux, uClibc, and BusyBox. All of the components have been optimized for home routers.
**OpenWrt** is a Linux-based operating system; it's primarily used on embedded devices to route network traffic. It includes util-linux, uClibc, and BusyBox. All the components have been optimized for home routers.
[:octicons-home-16: Homepage](https://openwrt.org){ .md-button .md-button--primary }
[:octicons-info-16:](https://openwrt.org/docs/start){ .card-link title=Documentation}

4
docs/security-keys.md
View file

@ -9,7 +9,7 @@ cover: multi-factor-authentication.webp
- [:material-target-account: Targeted Attacks](basics/common-threats.md#attacks-against-specific-individuals){ .pg-red }
- [:material-bug-outline: Passive Attacks](basics/common-threats.md#security-and-privacy){ .pg-orange }
A physical **security key** adds a very strong layer of protection to your online accounts. Compared to [authenticator apps](multi-factor-authentication.md), the FIDO2 security key protocol is immune to phishing, and cannot be compromised without physical possession of the key itself. Many services support FIDO2/WebAuthn as a multi-factor authentication option for securing your account, and some services allow you to use a security key as a strong single-factor authenticator with passwordless authentication.
A physical **security key** adds a very strong layer of protection to your online accounts. Compared to [authenticator apps](multi-factor-authentication.md), the FIDO2 security key protocol is immune to phishing, and cannot be compromised without physical possession of the key itself. Many services support FIDO2/WebAuthn as a multifactor authentication option for securing your account, and some services allow you to use a security key as a strong single-factor authenticator with passwordless authentication.
## Yubico Security Key
@ -66,7 +66,7 @@ The **YubiKey** series from Yubico are among the most popular security keys. The
The [comparison table](https://yubico.com/store/compare) shows the features and how the YubiKeys compare to each other and to Yubico's [Security Key](#yubico-security-key) series. One of the benefits of the YubiKey series is that one key can do almost everything you could expect from a hardware security key. We encourage you to take their [quiz](https://yubico.com/quiz) before purchasing in order to make sure you make the right choice.
The Yubikey 5 series has FIDO Level 1 certification, which is the most common. However, some governments or other organizations may require a key with Level 2 certification, in which case you'll have to purchase a [Yubikey 5 **FIPS** series](https://yubico.com/products/yubikey-fips) key, or a [Yubico Security Key](#yubico-security-key). Most people do not have to worry about this distinction.
The YubiKey 5 series has FIDO Level 1 certification, which is the most common. However, some governments or other organizations may require a key with Level 2 certification, in which case you'll have to purchase a [YubiKey 5 **FIPS** series](https://yubico.com/products/yubikey-fips) key, or a [Yubico Security Key](#yubico-security-key). Most people do not have to worry about this distinction.
YubiKeys can be programmed using the [YubiKey Manager](https://yubico.com/support/download/yubikey-manager) or [YubiKey Personalization Tools](https://yubico.com/support/download/yubikey-personalization-tools). For managing TOTP codes, you can use the [Yubico Authenticator](https://yubico.com/products/yubico-authenticator). All of Yubico's clients are open source.

12
docs/tools.md
View file

@ -186,7 +186,7 @@ If you're looking for added **security**, you should always ensure you're connec
---
Proton Mail is an email service with a focus on privacy, encryption, security, and ease of use. They have been in operation since 2013. Proton AG is based in Genève, Switzerland. The Proton Mail Free plan comes with 500MB of Mail storage, which you can increase up to 1GB for free.
Proton Mail is an email service with a focus on privacy, encryption, security, and ease of use. They have been in operation since 2013. Proton AG is based in Geneva, Switzerland. The Proton Mail Free plan comes with 500 MB of Mail storage, which you can increase up to 1 GB for free.
[Read Full Review :material-arrow-right-drop-circle:](email.md#proton-mail)
@ -194,7 +194,7 @@ If you're looking for added **security**, you should always ensure you're connec
---
Mailbox.org is an email service with a focus on being secure, ad-free, and privately powered by 100% eco-friendly energy. They have been in operation since 2014. Mailbox.org is based in Berlin, Germany. Accounts start with up to 2GB storage, which can be upgraded as needed.
Mailbox.org is an email service with a focus on being secure, ad-free, and privately powered by 100% eco-friendly energy. They have been in operation since 2014. Mailbox.org is based in Berlin, Germany. Accounts start with up to 2 GB storage, which can be upgraded as needed.
[Read Full Review :material-arrow-right-drop-circle:](email.md#mailboxorg)
@ -202,7 +202,7 @@ If you're looking for added **security**, you should always ensure you're connec
---
Tuta (formerly *Tutanota*) is an email service with a focus on security and privacy through the use of encryption. Tuta has been in operation since 2011 and is based in Hanover, Germany. Free accounts start with 1GB of storage.
Tuta (formerly *Tutanota*) is an email service with a focus on security and privacy through the use of encryption. Tuta has been in operation since 2011 and is based in Hanover, Germany. Free accounts start with 1 GB of storage.
[Read Full Review :material-arrow-right-drop-circle:](email.md#tuta)
@ -226,7 +226,7 @@ If you're looking for added **security**, you should always ensure you're connec
<div class="grid cards" markdown>
- ![mailcow logo](assets/img/email/mailcow.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [mailcow](email.md#self-hosting-email)
- ![Mailcow logo](assets/img/email/mailcow.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Mailcow](email.md#self-hosting-email)
- ![Mail-in-a-Box logo](assets/img/email/mail-in-a-box.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Mail-in-a-Box](email.md#self-hosting-email)
</div>
@ -652,10 +652,10 @@ For encrypting your OS drive, we typically recommend using the encryption tool y
- ![Qubes OS logo](assets/img/qubes/qubes_os.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Qubes OS (Xen VM Distribution)](desktop.md#qubes-os)
- ![Fedora logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/fedora.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Fedora Workstation](desktop.md#fedora-workstation)
- ![openSUSE Tumbleweed logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/opensuse-tumbleweed.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [OpenSUSE Tumbleweed](desktop.md#opensuse-tumbleweed)
- ![openSUSE Tumbleweed logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/opensuse-tumbleweed.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [openSUSE Tumbleweed](desktop.md#opensuse-tumbleweed)
- ![Arch logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/archlinux.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Arch Linux](desktop.md#arch-linux)
- ![Fedora logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/fedora.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Fedora Atomic Desktops](desktop.md#fedora-atomic-desktops)
- ![nixOS logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/nixos.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [NixOS](desktop.md#nixos)
- ![NixOS logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/nixos.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [NixOS](desktop.md#nixos)
- ![Whonix logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/whonix.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Whonix (Tor)](desktop.md#whonix)
- ![Tails logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/tails.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Tails (Live Boot)](desktop.md#tails)
- ![Kicksecure logo](assets/img/linux-desktop/kicksecure.svg){ .twemoji loading=lazy } [Kicksecure](desktop.md#kicksecure)

6
docs/tor.md
View file

@ -43,7 +43,7 @@ There are a variety of ways to connect to the Tor network from your device, the
Some of these apps are better than others, and again making a determination comes down to your threat model. If you are a casual Tor user who is not worried about your ISP collecting evidence against you, using apps like [Orbot](#orbot) or mobile browser apps to access the Tor network is probably fine. Increasing the number of people who use Tor on an everyday basis helps reduce the bad stigma of Tor, and lowers the quality of "lists of Tor users" that ISPs and governments may compile.
If more complete anonymity is paramount to your situation, you should **only** be using the desktop Tor Browser client, ideally in a [Whonix](desktop.md#whonix) + [Qubes](desktop.md#qubes-os) configuration. Mobile browsers are less common on Tor (and more fingerprintable as a result), and other configurations are not as rigorously tested against de-anonymization.
If more complete anonymity is paramount to your situation, you should **only** be using the desktop Tor Browser client, ideally in a [Whonix](desktop.md#whonix) + [Qubes](desktop.md#qubes-os) configuration. Mobile browsers are less common on Tor (and more fingerprintable as a result), and other configurations are not as rigorously tested against deanonymization.
## Tor Browser
@ -113,11 +113,11 @@ We previously recommended enabling the *Isolate Destination Address* preference
<div class="admonition tip" markdown>
<p class="admonition-title">Tips for Android</p>
Orbot can proxy individual apps if they support SOCKS or HTTP proxying. It can also proxy all your network connections using [VpnService](https://developer.android.com/reference/android/net/VpnService) and can be used with the VPN killswitch in :gear: **Settings** → **Network & internet** → **VPN** → :gear: → **Block connections without VPN**.
Orbot can proxy individual apps if they support SOCKS or HTTP proxying. It can also proxy all your network connections using [VpnService](https://developer.android.com/reference/android/net/VpnService) and can be used with the VPN kill switch in :gear: **Settings** → **Network & internet** → **VPN** → :gear: → **Block connections without VPN**.
Orbot is often outdated on the Guardian Project's [F-Droid repository](https://guardianproject.info/fdroid) and [Google Play](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.torproject.android), so consider downloading directly from the [GitHub repository](https://github.com/guardianproject/orbot/releases) instead.
All versions are signed using the same signature so they should be compatible with each other.
All versions are signed using the same signature, so they should be compatible with each other.
</div>

28
docs/vpn.md
View file

@ -96,11 +96,11 @@ Proton [now supports IPv6](https://protonvpn.com/support/prevent-ipv6-vpn-leaks)
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-info } Remote Port Forwarding
Proton VPN currently only supports ephemeral remote [port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding) via NAT-PMP, with 60 second lease times. The Windows app provides an easy to access option for it, while on other operating systems you'll need to run your own [NAT-PMP client](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup). Torrent applications often support NAT-PMP natively.
Proton VPN currently only supports ephemeral remote [port forwarding](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding) via NAT-PMP, with 60 second lease times. The Windows app provides an easy-to-access option for it, while on other operating systems you'll need to run your own [NAT-PMP client](https://protonvpn.com/support/port-forwarding-manual-setup). Torrent applications often support NAT-PMP natively.
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Anti-Censorship
Proton VPN has their [Stealth](https://protonvpn.com/blog/stealth-vpn-protocol) protocol which *may* help in situations where VPN protocols like OpenVPN or Wireguard are blocked with various rudimentary techniques. Stealth encapsulates the VPN tunnel in TLS session in order to look like more generic internet traffic.
Proton VPN has their [Stealth](https://protonvpn.com/blog/stealth-vpn-protocol) protocol which *may* help in situations where VPN protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard are blocked with various rudimentary techniques. Stealth encapsulates the VPN tunnel in TLS session in order to look like more generic internet traffic.
Unfortunately, it does not work very well in countries where sophisticated filters that analyze all outgoing traffic in an attempt to discover encrypted tunnels are deployed. Stealth is available on Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, but it's not yet available on Linux.
@ -110,11 +110,11 @@ In addition to providing standard OpenVPN configuration files, Proton VPN has mo
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Additional Notes
Proton VPN clients support two factor authentication on all platforms. Proton VPN has their own servers and datacenters in Switzerland, Iceland and Sweden. They offer content blocking and known-malware blocking with their DNS service. Additionally, Proton VPN also offers "Tor" servers allowing you to easily connect to onion sites, but we still strongly recommend using [the official Tor Browser](tor.md#tor-browser) for this purpose.
Proton VPN clients support two-factor authentication on all platforms. Proton VPN has their own servers and datacenters in Switzerland, Iceland and Sweden. They offer content blocking and known-malware blocking with their DNS service. Additionally, Proton VPN also offers "Tor" servers allowing you to easily connect to onion sites, but we still strongly recommend using [the official Tor Browser](tor.md#tor-browser) for this purpose.
##### :material-alert-outline:{ .pg-orange } Killswitch feature is broken on Intel-based Macs
##### :material-alert-outline:{ .pg-orange } Kill switch feature is broken on Intel-based Macs
System crashes [may occur](https://protonvpn.com/support/macos-t2-chip-kill-switch) on Intel-based Macs when using the VPN killswitch. If you require this feature, and you are using a Mac with Intel chipset, you should consider using another VPN service.
System crashes [may occur](https://protonvpn.com/support/macos-t2-chip-kill-switch) on Intel-based Macs when using the VPN kill switch. If you require this feature, and you are using a Mac with Intel chipset, you should consider using another VPN service.
### IVPN
@ -180,7 +180,7 @@ IVPN previously supported port forwarding, but removed the option in [June 2023]
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Anti-Censorship
IVPN has obfuscation modes using [v2ray](https://v2ray.com/en/index.html) which helps in situations where VPN protocols like OpenVPN or Wireguard are blocked. Currently this feature is only available on Desktop and [iOS](https://ivpn.net/knowledgebase/ios/v2ray). It has two modes where it can use [VMess](https://guide.v2fly.org/en_US/basics/vmess.html) over QUIC or TCP connections. QUIC is a modern protocol with better congestion control and therefore may be faster with reduced latency. The TCP mode makes your data appear as regular HTTP traffic.
IVPN has obfuscation modes using [v2ray](https://v2ray.com/en/index.html) which helps in situations where VPN protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard are blocked. Currently, this feature is only available on Desktop and [iOS](https://ivpn.net/knowledgebase/ios/v2ray). It has two modes where it can use [VMess](https://guide.v2fly.org/en_US/basics/vmess.html) over QUIC or TCP connections. QUIC is a modern protocol with better congestion control and therefore may be faster with reduced latency. The TCP mode makes your data appear as regular HTTP traffic.
#### :material-check:{ .pg-green } Mobile Clients
@ -188,7 +188,7 @@ In addition to providing standard OpenVPN configuration files, IVPN has mobile c
#### :material-information-outline:{ .pg-blue } Additional Notes
IVPN clients support two factor authentication. IVPN also provides "[AntiTracker](https://ivpn.net/antitracker)" functionality, which blocks advertising networks and trackers from the network level.
IVPN clients support two-factor authentication. IVPN also provides "[AntiTracker](https://ivpn.net/antitracker)" functionality, which blocks advertising networks and trackers from the network level.
### Mullvad
@ -257,7 +257,7 @@ Mullvad previously supported port forwarding, but removed the option in [May 202
Mullvad offers several features to help bypass censorship and access the internet freely:
- **Obfuscation modes**: Mullvad has two built-in obfuscation modes: "UDP-over-TCP" and ["Wireguard over Shadowsocks"](https://mullvad.net/en/blog/introducing-shadowsocks-obfuscation-for-wireguard). These modes disguise your VPN traffic as regular web traffic, making it harder for censors to detect and block. Supposedly, China has to use a [new method to disrupt Shadowsocks-routed traffic](https://gfw.report/publications/usenixsecurity23/en).
- **Obfuscation modes**: Mullvad has two built-in obfuscation modes: "UDP-over-TCP" and ["WireGuard over Shadowsocks"](https://mullvad.net/en/blog/introducing-shadowsocks-obfuscation-for-wireguard). These modes disguise your VPN traffic as regular web traffic, making it harder for censors to detect and block. Supposedly, China has to use a [new method to disrupt Shadowsocks-routed traffic](https://gfw.report/publications/usenixsecurity23/en).
- **Advanced obfuscation with Shadowsocks and v2ray**: For more advanced users, Mullvad provides a guide on how to use the [Shadowsocks with v2ray](https://mullvad.net/en/help/shadowsocks-with-v2ray) plugin with Mullvad clients. This setup provides an additional layer of obfuscation and encryption.
- **Custom server IPs**: To counter IP-blocking, you can request custom server IPs from Mullvad's support team. Once you receive the custom IPs, you can input the text file in the "Server IP override" settings, which will override the chosen server IP addresses with ones that aren't known to the censor.
- **Bridges and proxies**: Mullvad also allows you to use bridges or proxies to reach their API (needed for authentication), which can help bypass censorship attempts that block access to the API itself.
@ -283,19 +283,19 @@ It is important to note that using a VPN provider will not make you anonymous, b
### Technology
We require all our recommended VPN providers to provide OpenVPN configuration files to be used in any client. **If** a VPN provides their own custom client, we require a killswitch to block network data leaks when disconnected.
We require all our recommended VPN providers to provide OpenVPN configuration files to be used in any client. **If** a VPN provides their own custom client, we require a kill switch to block network data leaks when disconnected.
**Minimum to Qualify:**
- Support for strong protocols such as WireGuard & OpenVPN.
- Killswitch built in to clients.
- Multihop support. Multihopping is important to keep data private in case of a single node compromise.
- Kill switch built in to clients.
- Multi-hop support. Multi-hopping is important to keep data private in case of a single node compromise.
- If VPN clients are provided, they should be [open source](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_source), like the VPN software they generally have built into them. We believe that [source code](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Source_code) availability provides greater transparency about what the program is actually doing.
- Censorship resistance features designed to bypass firewalls without DPI.
**Best Case:**
- Killswitch with highly configurable options (enable/disable on certain networks, on boot, etc.)
- Kill switch with highly configurable options (enable/disable on certain networks, on boot, etc.)
- Easy-to-use VPN clients
- [IPv6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPv6) support. We expect that servers will allow incoming connections via IPv6 and allow you to access services hosted on IPv6 addresses.
- Capability of [remote port forwarding](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_forwarding#Remote_port_forwarding) assists in creating connections when using P2P ([Peer-to-Peer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer-to-peer)) file sharing software or hosting a server (e.g., Mumble).
@ -313,7 +313,7 @@ We prefer our recommended providers to collect as little data as possible. Not c
**Best Case:**
- Accepts multiple [anonymous payment options](advanced/payments.md).
- No personal information accepted (autogenerated username, no email required, etc.).
- No personal information accepted (auto-generated username, no email required, etc.).
### Security
@ -355,7 +355,7 @@ With the VPN providers we recommend we like to see responsible marketing.
**Minimum to Qualify:**
- Must self-host analytics (i.e., no Google Analytics). The provider's site must also comply with [DNT (Do Not Track)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Do_Not_Track) for people who want to opt-out.
- Must self-host analytics (i.e., no Google Analytics). The provider's site must also comply with [DNT (Do Not Track)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Do_Not_Track) for people who want to opt out.
Must not have any marketing which is irresponsible: