PrivacyTools

PrivacyTools is a community-driven online resource that catalogs and reviews privacy-preserving technologies and practices. The project aims to help individuals and organizations safeguard personal data by providing practical information about tools and methods to reduce tracking, data collection, and surveillance online. It covers a broad range of categories, including web browsers and search engines, email and messaging, operating systems and devices, password management, cryptography, VPNs and network anonymity, cloud storage, and secure file transfer, as well as guidance on operational security and threat modeling.

The site emphasizes privacy-by-design, transparency, and user empowerment. Content is contributed by volunteers and maintained through an open editorial process. Tool profiles typically summarize key privacy features, data handling considerations, potential trade-offs, and usage notes, alongside recommendations and practical tips. The project maintains a wiki and reference guides that help users compare options and implement privacy practices.

PrivacyTools is used by privacy researchers, journalists, IT professionals, and members of the public seeking actionable guidance. While it provides non-binding recommendations aimed at high privacy standards, it cautions readers to perform their own assessments, as tools and services evolve and governance can change. The project also hosts discussions and mirrors standards within the broader privacy community.