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This repository is a semi-comprehensive collection of resources, tools, and recommendations to enhance your online privacy and security. Whether you want to secure your internet connection, protect your personal information, or explore privacy technologies, you’ll find valuable links and insights here.

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Ultimate Privacy Guide! πŸŒπŸ”’

This repository is a semi-comprehensive collection of resources, tools, and recommendations designed to help you enhance your online privacy and security. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to secure your internet connection, protect your personal information, or explore the latest privacy-focused technologies, you’ll find valuable links and information here.

We’ve simplified everything for easy understanding, offering essential steps and tips to improve your privacy with straightforward tools and techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or explaining it to Grandma or your Girlfriend, this guide ensures everyone can enhance their online security. 🌟

Dive into the sections below to discover tools and services that can help you achieve better privacy and security online!

Note

Feel free to contribute by submitting pull requests or issues if you have suggestions for additional resources.

Table of Contents

Resources and Tools

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DNS 🌐

  • NextDNS 🌐
    Provides enhanced security and privacy features for your internet connection, offering advanced DNS filtering, encryption, and analytics. It’s a great tool for blocking ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
    URL: https://nextdns.io

  • AdGuard Home 🏠
    A network-wide ad blocker and privacy tool. Blocks ads, trackers, and provides detailed analytics by filtering DNS requests.
    URL: https://adguard.com/en/adguard-home/overview.html

  • Quad9 πŸ”’
    A free service that blocks malicious domains to protect against threats like malware, phishing, and spyware, while ensuring privacy and improving performance. Operated by the Swiss-based Quad9 Foundation.
    URL: https://www.quad9.net

  • Pi-hole πŸ•³οΈ
    A network-wide ad blocker that acts as a DNS sinkhole, blocking unwanted content and advertisements at the network level. It helps improve browsing speed and protects user privacy by preventing trackers from loading.
    URL: https://pi-hole.net

Browsers 🌍

  • Firefox 🦊
    Fast, secure, and privacy-respecting web browser developed by Mozilla. Known for its robust security features and support for a variety of privacy-enhancing add-ons.
    URL: https://www.mozilla.org/en-GB/firefox/new/

    Pros:

    • βœ… Strong privacy features and add-ons
    • βœ… Highly customizable
    • βœ… Open-source

    Cons:

    • ❌ May be slower with many add-ons
    • ❌ Higher resource usage compared to some lightweight browsers
  • Mercury 🌟 Hardened version of Firefox, optimized for privacy by disabling telemetry, fingerprinting, and other tracking techniques. Ideal for users looking for an extra layer of privacy.
    URL: https://thorium.rocks/mercury

    Pros:

    • βœ… Enhanced privacy protections
    • βœ… Blocks tracking and telemetry
    • βœ… Built on Firefox’s robust engine

    Cons:

    • ❌ May require additional configuration for optimal use
    • ❌ Performance may vary depending on privacy settings
  • Mullvad Browser πŸ”’ Designed in collaboration with the Tor Project to reduce browser fingerprinting. An even more privacy-conscious version of Firefox, best used with Mullvad VPN.
    URL: https://mullvad.net/en/browser

    Pros:

    • βœ… Strong privacy and anonymity features
    • βœ… Designed to work well with Mullvad VPN
    • βœ… Reduces browser fingerprinting

    Cons:

    • ❌ May not be as user-friendly as other browsers
    • ❌ Limited to Mullvad VPN integration for best results
  • LibreWolf 🐺
    A privacy-focused fork of Firefox with a variety of security enhancements and privacy protections. Designed for users who want a Firefox experience without the telemetry and data collection.
    URL: https://librewolf.net

    Pros:

    • βœ… No telemetry or data collection
    • βœ… Customizable like Firefox
    • βœ… Open-source

    Cons:

    • ❌ Fewer extensions compared to mainstream Firefox
    • ❌ May lack some features found in standard Firefox
  • Cromite 🦠
    A privacy-enhanced Chromium-based browser with additional security features and privacy settings. Suitable for users who prefer Chromium’s interface but with increased privacy controls.
    URL: https://github.com/uazo/cromite

    Pros:

    • βœ… Enhanced privacy and security features
    • βœ… Familiar Chromium interface
    • βœ… Open-source

    Cons:

    • ❌ Limited support for some Chrome extensions
    • ❌ Performance may be affected by privacy settings
  • Tor Browser πŸ•΅οΈβ€β™‚οΈ
    A privacy-focused browser that routes traffic through the Tor network to anonymize browsing and protect against tracking. Ideal for users seeking high anonymity online.
    URL: https://www.torproject.org/download/

    Pros:

    • βœ… High level of anonymity
    • βœ… Strong privacy protections
    • βœ… Designed to bypass censorship

    Cons:

    • ❌ Slower browsing speeds due to Tor network
    • ❌ Some websites may not function properly

Browser Recommendations 🌟

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  • For General Privacy:
    Use Firefox 🦊 for a well-rounded, privacy-focused browser experience with strong security features and extensive customization options.

  • For Enhanced Privacy Protection:
    Opt for Mercury 🌟 or Mullvad Browser πŸ”’ if you need advanced privacy settings and better protection against tracking and fingerprinting.

  • For High Anonymity:
    Tor Browser πŸ•΅οΈβ€β™‚οΈ is ideal for users seeking the highest level of anonymity and privacy by routing traffic through the Tor network.

  • For Privacy-Hardened Chromium Experience:
    Cromite 🦠 offers a Chromium-based browser with enhanced privacy features for users who prefer Chromium’s interface.

  • For a Privacy-Focused Alternative to Firefox:
    LibreWolf 🐺 is a great choice for those who want a Firefox-like experience without telemetry and data collection.

Browser Extensions πŸ›‘

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Enhance your browser's privacy and functionality with these recommended extensions:

Note

  • Privacy Badger and Decentraleyes are not needed in Firefox or its forks (including LibreWolf, which has ETP enabled by default) unless you have ETP disabled. To avoid using these extensions, ensure that ETP (Enhanced Tracking Protection) is enabled. They are also not needed in Cromite due to its custom cookie isolation settings.

  • Cookie AutoDelete is not necessary in Chromium-based browsers on Windows if you have the "Clear site data on close" setting enabled, nor in LibreWolf, as it clears site data by default. To avoid using this extension in other browsers, enable the "Clear site data on close" setting.

  • uBlock Origin βœ‹ A highly efficient ad and tracker blocker that reduces page load times and blocks unwanted content, keeping your browsing fast and private.
    URL : https://github.com/gorhill/uBlock
    See Tools and Utilities 🧰 for the setup guide.

  • SponsorBlock ⏩
    Automatically skips sponsored segments in YouTube videos, allowing you to enjoy content without interruptions.
    URL : https://sponsor.ajay.app/

  • CanvasBlocker 🎨
    Prevents websites from tracking you using canvas fingerprinting, a technique to uniquely identify and track your device.
    URL : https://github.com/kkapsner/CanvasBlocker

  • ClearURLs πŸ”—
    Strips tracking elements from URLs, preventing companies from tracking your clicks and improving privacy.
    URL : https://github.com/ClearURLs/Addon

  • Privacy Badger 🦑 [❗️READ NOTE❗️]
    Automatically blocks invisible trackers and helps protect you from companies that track your browsing habits. Developed by the EFF.
    URL : https://www.eff.org/privacybadger

  • Decentraleyes πŸ› οΈ [❗️READ NOTE❗️]
    Prevents tracking through content delivery networks (CDNs) by locally emulating commonly used web libraries, boosting privacy without breaking sites.
    URL : https://decentraleyes.org/

  • Cookie AutoDelete πŸͺ [❗️READ NOTE❗️]
    Automatically deletes cookies from closed tabs, reducing the chance of being tracked across the web. Customizable to retain important cookies.
    URL : https://github.com/Cookie-AutoDelete/Cookie-AutoDelete

Mail Providers πŸ“§

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  • Proton Mail πŸ”
    Encrypted email service that ensures privacy and security. Built by scientists from CERN, Proton Mail offers end-to-end encryption and is a leader in email security.
    URL: https://proton.me/mail

  • Tutanota πŸ›‘οΈ
    A secure email service that provides end-to-end encryption for your messages and contacts. Tutanota is open-source and designed to protect user data and privacy.
    URL: https://tutanota.com/

  • Mailfence βœ‰οΈ
    A privacy-focused email service based in Belgium that offers end-to-end encryption, digital signatures, and a range of features including calendars and documents. Users can manage their own keys to ensure zero knowledge on the provider's part.
    URL: https://mailfence.com/

  • StartMail πŸ“¬
    An email service from the creators of StartPage that prioritizes privacy. StartMail offers disposable email addresses and utilizes end-to-end encryption, ensuring that the provider cannot access user emails.
    URL: https://www.startmail.com/

  • Posteo 🌿
    An environmentally-friendly email provider based in Germany that offers secure, ad-free email with a strong commitment to privacy. Posteo does not store user data in a way that allows it to access your emails.
    URL: https://posteo.de/en

  • Mailbox.org πŸ“¦
    A secure and privacy-focused email provider that offers features like end-to-end encryption, calendar, and cloud storage. Mailbox.org is committed to data protection and does not display ads or sell user data.
    URL: https://mailbox.org/

  • CounterMail πŸ”’
    A secure email service that provides end-to-end encryption and focuses on privacy. CounterMail utilizes strong encryption techniques and offers unique security features, including USB key authentication, ensuring zero knowledge of user data.
    URL: https://countermail.com/

VPNs πŸ”‘

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  • Proton VPN πŸ›‘οΈ
    No-logs VPN service focused on privacy and security, offering anonymous browsing and access to content from around the world.
    URL: https://protonvpn.com

  • Mullvad VPN πŸ”’
    A VPN service known for its strong privacy and security features, with a focus on anonymity. Offers a high level of transparency and does not require personal information to sign up.
    URL: https://mullvad.net/en/

  • Tailscale πŸ›‘οΈ
    A self-hosted VPN service that simplifies secure network connectivity. Tailscale uses WireGuard to create a secure network between your devices.
    URL: https://tailscale.com

Cloud Storage Providers ☁️

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  • Proton Drive πŸ’Ύ
    Secure cloud storage solution that encrypts your files before they reach the cloud, ensuring that no one else can access your data.
    URL: https://proton.me/drive

  • Tresorit πŸ”’
    An end-to-end encrypted cloud storage service designed for security and privacy. Tresorit ensures that only you and those you share with can access your files.
    URL: https://tresorit.com/

  • Sync.com 🌐
    A secure cloud storage provider that offers end-to-end encryption. Sync.com focuses on user privacy and data security, allowing you to share files safely.
    URL: https://www.sync.com/

  • pCloud ☁️
    A secure cloud storage solution that allows you to encrypt your files before uploading them. pCloud offers a user-friendly interface and additional privacy features.
    URL: https://www.pcloud.com/

  • Icedrive πŸ₯Ά
    A secure cloud storage platform that uses zero-knowledge encryption to keep your files private. Icedrive offers a modern interface and affordable pricing plans.
    URL: https://icedrive.net/

  • Nextcloud 🏠
    An open-source, self-hosted cloud storage solution that gives you full control over your data. Nextcloud can be set up on your own server for maximum privacy.
    URL: https://nextcloud.com/

  • Koofr πŸ“¦
    A privacy-focused cloud storage provider that connects multiple cloud services into one account. Koofr allows you to manage your files securely and easily.
    URL: https://koofr.eu/

  • MEGA πŸ”
    A cloud storage service that provides a generous amount of free storage and end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your files are kept private and secure.
    URL: https://mega.nz/

Calendars πŸ“…

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  • Proton Calendar πŸ”
    Privacy-focused, encrypted calendar that keeps your events secure and private. Proton Calendar ensures that your data is not accessible by anyone else.
    URL: https://proton.me/calendar

  • Tutanota Calendar πŸ“†
    An encrypted calendar integrated with Tutanota’s secure email service, ensuring your appointments are kept private and secure with zero knowledge from the provider.
    URL: https://tutanota.com/

  • Nextcloud Calendar 🏠
    An open-source, self-hosted calendar that gives you full control over your data. Nextcloud Calendar ensures that only you have access to your events.
    URL: https://nextcloud.com/

  • Etar πŸ“…
    An open-source calendar app for Android that emphasizes user privacy. Etar does not track users and can sync with other zero-knowledge services while keeping your data secure.
    URL: https://github.com/Etar-Group/Etar-Group

  • Simple Calendar 🌿
    A lightweight, open-source calendar app for Android that prioritizes simplicity and user privacy. Simple Calendar does not contain ads or tracking features, ensuring your data remains private.
    URL: https://github.com/SimpleMobileTools/Simple-Calendar

Password Managers πŸ”‘

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  • Proton Pass πŸ”‘
    A secure password manager that uses end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you have access to your stored passwords and sensitive information. Proton Pass is designed with privacy as a top priority.
    URL: https://proton.me/pass

  • Bitwarden πŸ›‘οΈ
    This open-source password manager offers a user-friendly interface and strong encryption. Bitwarden allows users to manage passwords securely across devices, with options for self-hosting and sharing credentials safely with trusted contacts.
    URL: https://bitwarden.com/

  • KeePass πŸ”’
    A versatile open-source password manager that enables users to store their passwords locally. KeePass provides robust encryption methods and a wide range of plugins, giving you complete control over your password management.
    URL: https://keepass.info/

  • KeePassXC πŸ› οΈ
    A community-driven fork of KeePass, KeePassXC enhances usability with a modern interface and browser integration. This cross-platform solution maintains the original's security features while offering additional functionalities, such as a built-in password generator.
    URL: https://keepassxc.org/

  • Tresorit 🏰
    Primarily known for its secure cloud storage capabilities, Tresorit also offers password management features. It emphasizes zero-knowledge encryption, ensuring that your data remains inaccessible to anyone but you, making it an excellent choice for security-conscious users.
    URL: https://tresorit.com/

  • Passbolt πŸ“–
    An open-source password manager tailored for team collaboration, Passbolt allows users to securely share passwords and notes. Its focus on security and usability makes it a perfect solution for businesses that need to manage shared credentials safely.
    URL: https://www.passbolt.com/

  • Psono πŸ”‘
    Designed with both individuals and teams in mind, Psono is an open-source password manager that offers encrypted password storage and easy access across devices. It can be self-hosted for complete control over your data and includes features for team collaboration.
    URL: https://psono.com/

  • LessPass πŸ“œ
    A unique approach to password management, LessPass generates passwords based on your master password and username, eliminating the need to store passwords. This zero-knowledge solution ensures maximum security and simplifies the password management process.
    URL: https://lesspass.com/

2FA Providers πŸ”

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  • Authy
    A popular 2FA provider offering support for multiple devices, secure backups, and offline functionality. Authy encrypts data end-to-end for privacy and security.
    URL: https://authy.com/

  • Duo Security
    A 2FA solution designed for both personal and enterprise use, Duo Security offers push notifications, TOTP, and hardware token options.
    URL: https://www.duo.com/

  • FreeOTP
    An open-source 2FA app available for Android and iOS that supports TOTP and HOTP, storing all authentication data locally on the device.
    URL: https://fedorahosted.org/freeotp/

  • Aegis Authenticator
    An open-source 2FA app for Android that supports TOTP, storing all tokens locally with encrypted backups.
    URL: https://github.com/beemdevelopment/Aegis

  • Myki
    A password manager and 2FA provider that focuses on offline storage, generating 2FA tokens directly on the device without sending data to the cloud.
    URL: https://myki.com/

  • Yubico (YubiKey)
    A hardware-based solution for 2FA, YubiKey uses FIDO2, U2F, and OTP protocols to securely authenticate without needing a password.
    URL: https://www.yubico.com/

  • Bitwarden (Authenticator)
    An open-source password manager that includes built-in 2FA functionality, generating TOTP codes directly from the app.
    URL: https://bitwarden.com/

  • 2FAS (Two-Factor Authentication Service)
    A privacy-focused 2FA provider offering secure push notifications and TOTP-based 2FA services with the option for self-hosting.
    URL: https://2fas.com/

Wallet Providers πŸͺ™

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  • Proton Wallet πŸͺ™ Digital wallet for managing your cryptocurrency with Proton's high level of security. It integrates seamlessly with other Proton services to enhance your privacy.
    URL: https://proton.me/wallet

  • Wasabi Wallet πŸ₯‡ A privacy-focused Bitcoin wallet that uses CoinJoin technology to anonymize transactions, making it difficult for third parties to trace your activity. It is open-source and designed for maximum user privacy.
    URL: https://wasabiwallet.io/

  • Samourai Wallet πŸ” Another privacy-centric Bitcoin wallet that emphasizes anonymity and security. It offers features such as paynym, which allows users to send and receive Bitcoin without revealing their address.
    URL: https://samouraiwallet.com/

  • Mew Wallet (MyEtherWallet) 🌐 A client-side interface for creating and managing Ethereum wallets. Mew allows you to interact with the Ethereum blockchain securely without storing your private keys on their servers.
    URL: https://www.myetherwallet.com/

  • Exodus Wallet πŸ’Ό A user-friendly cryptocurrency wallet that supports multiple coins and tokens. It provides a built-in exchange feature and emphasizes user privacy, with no KYC requirements.
    URL: https://www.exodus.com/

  • Coinomi 🌈 A multi-currency wallet that supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies while focusing on user privacy. Coinomi does not collect any personal information or track user transactions.
    URL: https://www.coinomi.com/

  • Trezor πŸ”’ A hardware wallet known for its security features. Trezor keeps your private keys offline, ensuring maximum protection against hacks and online threats. It supports various cryptocurrencies and integrates with numerous wallet applications.
    URL: https://trezor.io/

  • Ledger πŸ’³ Another leading hardware wallet provider that emphasizes security. Ledger wallets store your private keys offline and support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, providing a secure way to manage your assets.
    URL: https://www.ledger.com/

Alias Email Services πŸ“§

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  • SimpleLogin πŸ“¨
    Alias email service that protects your primary email address by creating burner addresses, useful for sign-ups and avoiding spam. It encrypts emails and is open-source, ensuring your privacy is maintained.
    URL: https://simplelogin.io

  • AnonAddy πŸ›‘οΈ
    An open-source anonymous email forwarding service that allows you to create aliases to protect your real email address from spam and tracking. It supports PGP encryption for enhanced privacy.
    URL: https://anonaddy.com

  • DuckDuckGo Email Protection πŸ¦†
    A service that provides you with a DuckDuckGo email address to forward to your personal inbox, hiding your real email address. This allows you to manage sign-ups without revealing personal information.
    URL: https://duckduckgo.com/email

  • Tutanota πŸ”’
    An encrypted email service that offers alias email addresses, enabling you to keep your primary address private while securely managing communications. Tutanota is fully open-source and focuses on user privacy.
    URL: https://tutanota.com

Encrypted Note-Taking πŸ““

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  • Standard Notes πŸ““
    A secure and private note-taking app that offers end-to-end encryption. Standard Notes ensures that only you can read your notes.
    URL: Standard Notes

  • Joplin ✏️
    An open-source note-taking and to-do application with end-to-end encryption. Joplin can sync with various cloud services while keeping your data secure.
    URL: https://joplinapp.org

  • Turtl 🐒
    A privacy-focused note-taking app that uses strong encryption to protect your data. Turtl is designed for easy organization and collaboration.
    URL: https://turtlapp.com

  • Cryptee πŸ›‘οΈ
    Encrypted and privacy-focused note-taking and photo storage. Cryptee offers secure storage for your notes and files with end-to-end encryption.
    URL: https://crypt.ee

Secure Messaging Platforms πŸ”

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  • Threema πŸ›‘οΈ A privacy-focused messaging app based in Switzerland, offering end-to-end encryption and anonymous use without requiring a phone number or email. URL : https://threema.ch

  • Session πŸ”‘ A decentralized messaging platform with end-to-end encryption and no need for a phone number or email, ensuring high privacy and anonymity.
    URL : https://getsession.org

  • Signal πŸ“± A secure messaging app with end-to-end encryption and a simple, user-friendly design, offering privacy-focused messaging and calls.
    URL : https://signal.org

Secure OS's πŸ›‘

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  • Tails OS πŸ–₯️
    A security-focused, Debian-based Linux distribution aimed at preserving privacy and anonymity. Tails routes all its internet traffic through the Tor network and leaves no traces on the machine unless explicitly told to do so.
    URL: https://tails.boum.org/

  • Qubes OS πŸ›‘οΈ
    A highly secure operating system designed for strong security through isolation, based on the Xen hypervisor. It compartmentalizes applications into isolated virtual machines, reducing the attack surface.
    URL: https://www.qubes-os.org/

  • Whonix πŸ”’
    A privacy-focused operating system based on Tor, designed to provide advanced security by isolating internet traffic within a separate virtual machine, ensuring strong anonymity.
    URL: https://www.whonix.org/

AI πŸ€–

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  • Ollama
    Ollama provides an easy-to-use platform for running large language models locally on your device. It is privacy-focused, allowing users to run models without relying on cloud-based services. Ollama also has a GitHub repository with various resources, and users can explore web app wrappers to enhance their experience.
    GitHub: https://github.com/jmorganca/ollama

  • GPT4All
    GPT4All is an open-source initiative that enables users to run powerful language models on their own machines without the need for cloud access. It is designed for privacy and versatility, allowing individuals to fine-tune and use large-scale models for various tasks offline.
    URL: https://gpt4all.io/

Tools and Utilities 🧰

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  • uBlock Origin Setup Guide πŸ› οΈ (Follow "Recommended, Enhanced and Pro" instructions for optimal setup.)
    Detailed guide for configuring uBlock Origin to achieve maximum privacy and ad-blocking capabilities. Follow the "Enhanced and Pro" recommendations to fine-tune your setup.
    URL: https://github.com/yokoffing/filterlists

  • Enable Post Quantum Cryptography Support in Web Browsers πŸ”
    Learn how to enable experimental support for post-quantum cryptography in popular browsers, ensuring your data remains secure in the future as quantum computing advances.
    URL: https://evertrust.io/education/enable-post-quantum-cryptography-support-in-web-browsers

  • Have I Been Pwned πŸ”
    Simple tool to check if your email address has been involved in any data breaches. It searches millions of breached datasets and alerts you if your data has been compromised.
    URL: https://haveibeenpwned.com

  • Time Hash Code (THC) ⏳
    Handy tool that generates random IDs using a time-based hashing algorithm. Ideal for unique identifier generation in scripts, projects, or usernames.
    Note: This tool is available exclusively as a Apple Shortcut, which can be added and used on Apple devices with the Shortcuts app.
    URL: https://github.com/AT3K/Time-Hash-Code

Hardware πŸ›’

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  • Buy a Raspberry Pi πŸ₯§
    Ideal for DIY projects, home automation, and learning about computing. A versatile and affordable option for various tech enthusiasts.
    URL: https://thepihut.com

  • Protectli πŸ”’
    Provides a range of secure, reliable hardware solutions designed for protecting your network. Suitable for setting up firewalls and secure network appliances.
    URL: https://eu.protectli.com

Podcasts and Media πŸ“Ί

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Recommended YouTubers πŸ“Ί

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  • Network Chuck πŸŽ₯
    Popular YouTuber focusing on networking, cybersecurity, and ethical hacking. Great for learning IT skills and staying updated on the latest security practices.
    URL: https://www.youtube.com/@NetworkChuck

  • DBTech πŸ“Ί
    Covers various IT topics, with a focus on self-hosting, Raspberry Pi projects, and Docker containers. His tutorials are easy to follow for beginners and advanced users alike.
    URL: https://www.youtube.com/@DBTechYT

  • Christian Lempa πŸŽ“
    Produces in-depth tutorials on self-hosting, cloud computing, and enterprise IT solutions. Ideal for IT professionals and enthusiasts.
    URL: https://www.youtube.com/@christianlempa

  • Techno Tim πŸ–₯️
    Focuses on self-hosting, networking, and automation. His tutorials are well-structured and great for users interested in setting up their own servers and networks.
    URL: https://www.youtube.com/@TechnoTim

  • Linus Tech Tips πŸ’»
    Provides a wide range of technology-related content, including reviews, tutorials, and industry news. Excellent for keeping up with the latest in tech and gadgets.
    URL: https://www.youtube.com/@LinusTechTips

Thesaurus for Non-Techies 🧠

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In this section, we break down some common tech and privacy terms that might be unfamiliar to beginners. This is to make the world of online privacy easier to navigate!


  • DNS (Domain Name System) 🌐
    What it means: DNS is like the phone book of the internet. It translates website names (like google.com) into IP addresses (the technical address where websites live).
    Why it matters: DNS services can affect your internet speed, security, and privacy. Some DNS services, like NextDNS or AdGuard Home, offer extra protection by blocking malicious sites.

  • End-to-End Encryption πŸ”
    What it means: A method of communication where only the sender and the recipient can read the message. Even the service provider (like Proton Mail) can't access the contents.
    Why it matters: It ensures that your data or messages are private and secure, from your device to the recipient's device.

  • VPN (Virtual Private Network) πŸ›‘οΈ
    What it means: A tool that hides your online activity by routing your connection through a private server, making it harder for websites and hackers to track you.
    Why it matters: VPNs protect your data, especially on public Wi-Fi, and can also bypass geographic restrictions on content.

  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) πŸ”‘
    What it means: A security process that requires two types of information (usually a password and a code sent to your phone) to verify your identity when logging in.
    Why it matters: It adds an extra layer of protection, making it harder for hackers to access your accounts even if they know your password.

  • Browser Fingerprinting πŸ–₯️
    What it means: A method websites use to track you by collecting information about your browser, device, and settings. This creates a "fingerprint" unique to you.
    Why it matters: It's a sneaky way websites can identify and track you even if you block cookies or use privacy tools.

  • Telemetry πŸ“Š
    What it means: Data collected by software (like browsers) about how you use it. This data is often sent back to the company to improve performance or features.
    Why it matters: While sometimes helpful, telemetry can also be invasive, collecting more data than necessary.

  • No-Logs Policy πŸ“œ
    What it means: A promise by VPN or other online service providers that they do not keep records (logs) of your activity or personal information.
    Why it matters: A no-logs policy ensures that your online activity stays private, even if the service provider is hacked or legally pressured.

  • Ad Blocking 🚫
    What it means: A tool or extension that stops ads from displaying on websites. uBlock Origin is a popular example.
    Why it matters: Ad blockers can improve browsing speed, reduce data usage, and protect you from malicious ads that could infect your device.

  • Open Source πŸ› οΈ
    What it means: Software where the code is publicly available for anyone to inspect, modify, and improve. Examples include Firefox and Bitwarden.
    Why it matters: Open-source software is generally considered more trustworthy because it’s transparent, and security flaws are more likely to be caught and fixed.

  • Malware 🦠
    What it means: Malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise a computer system. Examples include viruses, ransomware, and spyware.
    Why it matters: Malware can steal personal information, damage your device, or lock you out of your own files.

  • Telemetry Blocking βŒπŸ“Š
    What it means: The act of preventing software from collecting and sending usage data to a company. Tools like Mercury and LibreWolf are browsers that block telemetry by default.
    Why it matters: Blocking telemetry reduces the amount of data companies collect on you, enhancing your privacy.

  • Privacy-Focused 🌟
    What it means: Refers to tools, services, or practices that prioritize protecting user data and personal information from tracking and unauthorized access.
    Why it matters: Using privacy-focused tools helps maintain confidentiality and security while online.

  • Alias Email Service πŸ“§
    What it means: A service that allows you to create temporary or alternate email addresses to protect your primary email from spam and unwanted exposure.
    Why it matters: It helps manage privacy by keeping your real email address hidden from potential spammers or marketers.

  • Fingerprinting 🧩
    What it means: A technique used to identify and track users based on unique characteristics of their device and browsing behavior, even if they use privacy tools.
    Why it matters: It enables tracking of user activities across different websites despite efforts to maintain privacy.

License πŸ“

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This repository is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) license. This means you are free to use, modify, and distribute the content, as long as you provide appropriate credit to the original creator.

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This repository is a semi-comprehensive collection of resources, tools, and recommendations to enhance your online privacy and security. Whether you want to secure your internet connection, protect your personal information, or explore privacy technologies, you’ll find valuable links and insights here.

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