You are often mistaken that while browsing the internet, you’re all alone. No, you aren’t. Many surveillance eyes are tracking and monitoring everything you do on the web. From the websites you visit the files you download, everything is stored in your browsing history. Whoever knows your IP address can easily see your browsing history […]
The post Who Can See My Browsing History and Activities – Lets Find Out appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>You are often mistaken that while browsing the internet, you’re all alone. No, you aren’t. Many surveillance eyes are tracking and monitoring everything you do on the web. From the websites you visit the files you download, everything is stored in your browsing history. Whoever knows your IP address can easily see your browsing history too.
The prying eyes who learn about your online activities gather all the information, create your profile, and attach it to your IP address. The collected data is later sold to advertising companies against you.
Isn’t this all scary? But, the question is, who can see my browsing history, and what can be done in this regard? If you’ve had the same question, then read along and know your answers.
The following mentioned below are the most prominent sources that can see your browsing history:
Your ISP assigns you an IP address- an identification number you connect with the internet world. Thus, the ISP can monitor whatever you do over the web. The information your ISP can view and gather includes:
With this collected data, the ISP creates your profile and attaches it to your IP address, and can sell this information to advertisers or third parties and earn money. Besides this, ISP also collects data under the data retention laws for a specific time. These prime reasons compel the users to use some encrypted tools to hide their browsing activities.
Sadly, despite providing you best search results, popular search engines like Google track and record your browsing data. They do it to provide more personalized results, but it violates users’ privacy, and they don’t know anything about it. Hence, by using untraceable private search engines, you can hide your browsing history and boost your online privacy.
The applications you use also collect data about your browsing activities, location, languages, and browser under their privacy agreement. The collected information can later be used to target ads. For example, Facebook collects your data via your location, places visited, and images posted. They can even share the collected data with third parties without your consent. Hence, it is another reason to keep your activities protected over the internet.
If you’re browsing the internet unencrypted, besides ISP and trackers, the threat actors might also be able to view your online activities. By monitoring and tracking your online behavior, the hackers are always searching for loopholes that they can exploit to invade your network and launch an attack. Hackers have become more advanced than ever before. They use sophisticated tools and techniques and launch attacks like DDoS and phishing attacks and access your sensitive data. By hiding your browsing activities with encrypted tools, a hacker won’t know who you’re and what you are doing over the web.
Every country follows some data retention laws under which the ISP retains users’ online data, including their browsing history, for a maximum of six to 12 months. These government surveillance agencies can request the ISP to hand over the users’ data without their consent. Sometimes the users’ data is even shared with the surveillance agencies of other countries. Although the collected data is used for investigation purposes, it isn’t right from the users’ perspective and needs to be stopped.
Apart from the sources mentioned above; your network administrator and your boss in the office can view your browsing history. Since you use an account shared by others, do know what you do over the web.
If you don’t want anyone to spy on your online activities, you need to look for methods to hide your browsing history. Below is an insight into the three best ways to hide your browsing history. So, here you go:
If you learn more about how to hide browser history completely here is the full guide.
With ISPs, hackers, and other people monitoring and tracking your online activities, private browsing has become the need of the hour. It is easy for them to know what you’re doing over the web by knowing your IP address. Several ways are out there to browse the web privately. You can use private web browsers, secure search engines, browser extensions to browse the web privately. But among all, the most secure and reliable method for surfing the web anonymously is to use a VPN. It is a unique privacy-boosting software that hides your IP address and encrypts the data traffic, provides maximum online protection, and makes you utterly private over the web.
A VPN’s data ability to encrypt your online communications makes it stand out among all other methods. You can even use a VPN along with a private web browser and search engine for an enhanced browsing experience.
Your ISP knows everything about your browsing activities that put your digital privacy at significant risk. ISP’s tracking is a practice through which they analyze your online behavior via data packet inspection technique and record your browsing activities. If they find you doing anything against the country’s laws or their terms of services, you can get into great trouble. Sometimes the ISPs are required to track and record users’ online activities without their consent for a defined period. The collected data is used to help the government surveillance agencies investigate, but it violates users’ privacy.
The ISPs might even track you because of the repeal of Net Neutrality. This has given the ISPs more control over users’ data. If they find you involved in activities against their terms of service, they even restrict you from those activities. This especially goes when you’re downloading torrents. Since P2P activities consume much of your bandwidth, your ISP might track you to prevent users from such activities. Regardless of the reason, ISP tracking is always abusive, and you need to look for measures to avoid it.
Browsing in Incognito or private browsing mode is one way you can hide your browsing history. When you browse the web using an Incognito mode, your browsing history, cookies, username, and passwords aren’t stored on your device. In this way, you can enjoy some anonymity and browse the web privately. But, since the private browsing mode doesn’t hide your IP address, it is easy for the prying eyes to track your online activities.
Anonymous web browsing is merely like a dream. From your ISP to the websites you visit, apps and operating systems, surveillance agencies, to hackers, anyone can view your browsing history by simply tracking your IP address. However, now there are several ways you can adopt to hide your browsing history. But no other method gives 100% protection like a VPN. With its innovative encryption feature, a VPN makes sure that no one views the content of your data, and by changing your IP address, it retains greater online anonymity over the web. Hence, use the best secure VPN providers and hide your browsing history.
The post Who Can See My Browsing History and Activities – Lets Find Out appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>A free web proxy service is perfect for protecting your online identity and browsing the web anonymously without investing in a paid tool like a VPN. They enable users to browse the web without facing any restrictions anonymously. But since most proxy services log your activities and sell your data to advertisers thus, you should […]
The post 13 Best Free Proxy Sites for Unblocking Sites Anywhere in 2024 appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>A free web proxy service is perfect for protecting your online identity and browsing the web anonymously without investing in a paid tool like a VPN. They enable users to browse the web without facing any restrictions anonymously. But since most proxy services log your activities and sell your data to advertisers thus, you should look for the best free proxy services.
A web proxy acts as an intermediate gateway between you and the internet. They route your data traffic via its servers, thus changing your IP address and protecting your online privacy. Also, they’re helping to get around firewalls and internet restrictions imposed by the government, ISPs, workplaces, and schools.
The following article looks deeper into the best free proxy services and what extra features they offer to bypass internet restrictions.
When using a browser to access a website, you send a direct request to the web server via their IP address. The web server then responds with the website data back to your browser.
On the other hand, a proxy server operates as an intermediary between you and the website you want to visit by facilitating web requests and responses. When you send a web request, it initially goes to the proxy server. It then makes the web request on your behalf, gathers the response from the web browser, and sends the web page information to your browser. Proxy servers can alter the data you submit while forwarding your web requests and still receive the information you want. Moreover, a proxy server conceals your IP address and encrypts your data, enhancing online privacy.
Let’s take a deeper look at the proxy services listed above so you can better understand their functionality and benefits and decide for yourself.

ExtremeVPN free web proxy is the most reliable and fastest one we have experienced. It masks your IP address and ensures you are secure and anonymous online.
The proxy is currently working in 3 countries (Canada, Singapore, and the Netherlands), but you can customize it manually with many options.
The service promises top-notch and dependable privacy and security online. Plus, it works extremely well with Google Autocomplete searches.
ExtremeVPN proxy helps you bypass firewalls and access any website. You can customize your privacy by encrypting URLs, blocking pages, and disallowing cookies.

Hide.me has been famous till now for offering VPN service, but it also provides a free proxy service that helps maintain your internet privacy when you don’t want to invest in a VPN. The proxy is free to use and offers three server locations:
It is the best free proxy service because the proxy servers don’t store the activity logs or your IP address and thus ensure maximum anonymity on the web. It also maintains your online security as the servers support secure WireGuard, SoftEther, IKEv2, and OpenVPN tunneling protocol.
With Hide.me proxy, you can bypass the firewalls and access any site. You need to enter the website URL in the search bar provided and enter. The proxy even allows the users to customize their internet privacy how they want. It means you can encrypt your URL and pages, disable cookies, remove objects and scripts, and stop leaving any tracebacks.
The website claims to have more than 25 million users globally, and this popularity is because of its multi-platform functionality. You can download the proxy on your Windows, Android, and Apple devices without hassle. The downloading process is simple and the same as any other proxy service. All BitTorrent clients support it and even offer the SOCKS5 feature to hide your IP address and speed up your connection while torrenting. Moreover, it also provides a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox and further boosts your privacy.
Since it has servers in three countries, the ping time is longer than usual, resulting in slow connections. Also, watching streaming content on Netflix and Amazon Prime becomes challenging because of the limited server network.

HideMyAss is another free proxy service you can consider using to hide your online identity and access blocked websites. Though the server network is limited to five countries, some prominent countries still help access regional and international sites. Its servers are present in:
This proxy is an excellent option for accessing Facebook or YouTube at work or school. You can even stream the US, UK, and German Netflix libraries. But since the server network is not as vast as a VPN, it might affect your streaming experience.
It has a similar user interface as Hide.me; to access any blocked site, you need to enter the URL in the search bar. It is a reliable free proxy service to encrypt the URL pages and remove cookies and scripts if you want. Besides a free proxy, HMA allows you to test whether your DNS and WebRTC leak your IP address.
Other impressive features that HMA offers are unlimited bandwidth and an ad-free browsing experience. Throughout your browsing experience, you won’t be interrupted by pop-up ads that the users like the most.
You can download it on all popular devices and operating systems like Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and more. Also, you can use the free proxy service with HMA VPN as it encrypts the data traffic and provides more protection on the web.
However, like other proxy services, it lacks the SOCKS5 feature.

Another best free proxy is Hidester, which is simple and easy to use and offers a similar user interface and experience to Hide.me and HMA. To use Hidester proxy, open your browser and enter the website, and you get connected automatically. It also means you don’t need to download any additional app or software to make it work.
Hidester is a safe proxy because it instantly encrypts your connections using 128-bit encryption and maintains higher levels of online security. It doesn’t store cookies and removes unwanted scripts making you more private on the web. It also neither logs nor shares your logs with any third party.
Moreover, it uses impressive SSL technology to protect against malicious scripts and hackers trying to steal your sensitive data. It even protects public Wi-Fi connections and thus makes it the best free proxy to use today.
With Hidester proxy, you can bypass government, ISP, and employer restrictions and access any website you choose.
Unlike other proxy services, the Hidester server network is limited to only Europe and the US. For this reason, you might experience slow internet speed if you’re using it from other locations, which might ruin your browsing experience.

Whoer is another premium VPN provider that offers a free web proxy service. It allows you to circumvent internet restrictions and access blocked sites. It changes your IP address and ensures maximum anonymity over the web. The server network is not much extensive but covers major countries like:
You can retain greater online anonymity with Whoer proxy because it protects from WebRTC leaks that can, in turn, expose your actual IP address. The free proxy service is only available as a Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and Yandex browser extension. To use Whoer, you must install the browser and the extension and click the start button to access the blocked sites.
Moreover, it uses SSL encryption to hide your data and activities from privacy invaders. However, the proxy does come with some significant drawbacks.
Unlike other proxy services, Whoer offers limited bandwidth that can impact the speed. Moreover, as the server network is not extensive, selecting a proxy other than the assigned countries is impossible.

Another reliable proxy service that allows you to surf the web freely and anonymously is ProxySite. Like other proxy services, it also has a premium VPN with added benefits and features to ensure robust online protection and security on the web.
With ProxySite, you can easily unblock Facebook and YouTube at your alma mater and workplace and have some entertainment breaks without anyone knowing. It uses an SSL connection for encryption and helps bypass the firewalls efficiently and without hassle.
The best thing about this free proxy service is its gigabyte network that helps load the web pages faster and ensures fast browsing speed. Moreover, when this combines with SOCKS5, it provides ultra-fast internet speeds.
Another feature of ProxySite is its server network. It offers over 20 UK and US servers and helps cover your digital footsteps.

VPNBook is another excellent option to use and enables you to unblock any website or service. It is a popular free proxy service that doesn’t block ports and allows you to play regional-blocked games. It is the best service for unblocking Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube anywhere.
The proxy service offers multiple servers at four locations, including:
The speeds offered are pretty decent and help get around the internet restrictions. It is a secure proxy service because it doesn’t track and record your IP address and other connection logs. Moreover, it increases your online security using 256-bit SSL encryption and safeguards your data from all snooping eyes.
Like HMA, VPNbook is also a browser-based proxy service that doesn’t require additional software for downloading.
It is an excellent service to access blocked sites while hiding your identity. But on the downside, it is not free and would ruin your browsing experience with pop-up ads.

Megaproxy is another free proxy service that hides your browser and operating system and boosts your online anonymity, besides masking your IP address. It offers servers in the following countries, namely:
By choosing a country of your choice, you’ll get the country’s specific IP address and begin surfing the web anonymously. It offers fast browsing speed and enables users to unblock Facebook, YouTube, and other related sites in a quick time. Moreover, you can even unblock geo-blocked content and websites by using Megaproxy.
Another best thing about this proxy service is that it filters out the content and web pages and ensures a smooth browsing experience. However, unlike other proxy services, it doesn’t offer browser extensions or any other added features which might compel users from not using it.

Anonymous is the oldest, most accessible, easy-to-use web proxy that ensures an ad-free browsing experience. It offers unlimited bandwidth and encrypted connections that help maintain higher levels of online security.
The interface is pretty outdated; however, the same usage process. It provides no information about the server locations and lacks browser extensions and other notable features, such as removing scripts and blocking cookies on its main page. You need to enter the website URL to unblock any particular site.

If you’re looking for the best free proxy service, you should try Kproxy. It is one of the oldest proxy services operating since 2005, helping more than 1.5 million people maintain higher levels of internet privacy. Since it is free to use, it doesn’t come with a registration process, and you can download it on your device and enjoy an ad-free browsing experience.
It offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. These extensions are safe because they encrypt the connection between your browser and the target server, making it impossible for any prying eye to steal your valuable data. Moreover, you can easily switch between the servers located in:
With Kproxy, you can bypass online blocks and restrictions and easily access the blocked content and websites without anyone knowing. Besides this, the proxy provides various other impressive functionalities; by default, it protects from IP leaks and even offers a WebRTC protocol that helps access the blocked sites.
You can even upgrade to Kproxy Pro and enjoy unlimited downloads, no overloaded server issues, and unlimited usage of Kproxy extensions. However, you can avail of the 30-day trial period if you are unsatisfied with the service.

IPRoyal is another best proxy service that holds more than two million IP addresses. It offers four different proxies to the users: residential, data center, sneakers, and static residential proxies. Whether you’re looking for a proxy service for individual or business use, IPRoyal caters to your needs. All your sensitive data remains protected from snooping eyes by using these proxies.
It is the most preferred choice of the users because of its extensive global server network that’s spread in all popular locations like:
Another reason for IPRoyal’s popularity is that it uses a SOCKS5 proxy that boosts your security by using various authentication methods to process the data. Also, it uses partial HTTPS encryption to establish a secure connection between your device and the internet.
The proxy ensures anonymous browsing by adding a security layer and minimizes the risks of data breaches and cyber-attacks. It is a common myth that proxies slow down the internet speed, but if you use IPRoyal, it saves bandwidth and provides a faster internet connection. IPRoyal proxies reduce the server loads on corporate networks and improve overall efficiency.
The only thing that people don’t like about IPRoyal proxies is that it doesn’t come for free. But, as the prices are pretty low, starting with $3 per GB, you can consider investing in them.

GeoSurf is another best proxy service that pools over 2.5 million residential and static IP addresses. It is a reliable proxy service that is undetectable, thus allowing you to surf the internet freely without getting blocked.
The proxy service holds an extensive server network spread in almost every country and more than 1700 cities worldwide. Some of the prime server locations include:
It offers blazing-fast speed and helps bypass every filter and access the desired website anywhere. The proxy’s fast speed is not just because of its vast server network. Still, it also uses its proprietary automatic bandwidth optimization technology that guarantees the fastest connection from each gateway on your premium proxy network.
Another critical feature of GeoSurf proxy is its mobile and desktop VPN. It allows you to enjoy more privacy and anonymity by hiding behind the proxy while browsing the web.
GeoSurf is a reliable and easy-to-use proxy that improves user experience by not displaying pop-up ads while using the web. However, as it is not accessible, this might not impress many users.

Website URL: smartproxy.com
SmartProxy is among the best proxy services providing residential and data center proxies. The IP address is assigned to using devices like computers, laptops, and smartphones every day. In this way, the ISP and network administrators won’t be able to detect who you are and reduce the chances of getting blocked. Also, SmartProxy offers data center proxies that allow unlimited connections.
The proxy service offers more than 40 million IP addresses globally. It consists of an extensive server network that’s spread over 195 locations, including:
SmartProxy uses a rotating proxy network that enables you to switch to a new proxy without much effort. The residential back-connect proxy efficiently rotates to a new IP address and allows you to use unlimited sticky IP sessions. Moreover, data center proxies ensure fast speed.
Another impressive thing about SmartProxy is its responsive customer support. If you face any issues, you can contact the technical staff 24/7 via email or initiate a live chat to resolve your issue quickly.
What users don’t like about SmartProxy is that it isn’t free. It offers a paid plan, but since it comes with a three-day money-back guarantee, you can use it to test the proxy service and its features.
You can use a free proxy site to unblock a restricted site by following the steps below.
A free proxy service is tempting and lures users to anonymously browse the internet without investing a single penny. But using a free proxy is more of a risk. Here are some of the risks associated with a free proxy provider:
The free version of proxies sometimes lacks necessary security features and is risky to use. But if you want to use them for short-term use, you can use them.

Destination URL: brightdata.com
Bright Data has a complex pricing scheme that offers a massive proxy pool of over 72 million IP addresses with global coverage of all countries and cities. Besides rotating IP addresses, this service provides static IPs, a collection of 6-100 residential addresses that have never been used with your target domain. Additionally, it sells mobile IPs that are more resilient because they work on challenging targets.
Moreover, it includes a Proxy Manager, an open-source tool that can be freely installed on Linux, macOS, and Windows. This tool allows you to control IP rotation, optimize bandwidth usage by routing some requests through non-proxied connections, and block inconvenient IPs.
Bright data support the Autonomous System Number (ASN), a detailed targeting option. Also, its residential proxies support major protocols like HTTPS, SOCKS5, AND HTTP.
However, all its proficiency and features come at a higher cost than its peers. The service offers various payment plans, including monthly plans, yearly subscriptions, and pay-as-you-go plans to suit different users.

Destination URL: webshare.io
This proxy prioritizes its users’ privacy and connection speeds. It boasts the fastest proxies and a worldwide proxy network that is entirely protected and encrypted. The service provides a pool of advanced features to enhance the user experience, including the support of both SOCKS5 proxy and HTTP protocols and the availability of multi-factor authentication. In addition, it offers a free proxy plan, but it is limited to only 10 IP addresses, making it unreliable for big projects.
Webshare is an appealing proxy with extra features like robust security, a friendly UI, fast speeds, a focus on anonymity, and various pricing plans. However, it has some shortcomings, like high pricing plans, lack of customer support, and fewer IPs compared to its peers, but it is still worth a trial considering the available features.

Destination URL: oxylabs.io
Oxylabs includes a vast network of over 70 million proxies that cover all countries and cities worldwide. Its residential IPs employ back-connect gateway servers that require a manual address modification to add parameters for targeting information.
Furthermore, it provides static non-rotating residential proxies that it acquires directly from ISPs, which are better in terms of resilience and speed. These static proxies and Oxylabs’ over 2 million data center dedicated IPs support the SOCKS5 protocol.
Moreover, the service offers a cutting-edge residential proxy that uses AI and machine learning to mimic a regular user’s surfing behavior to circumvent captchas and blocks. Also, it includes a built-in web scraping tool that gets your response data in JSON or HTML format. Thankfully, it has various payment plans that become budget-friendly as you continuously commit.

Destination URL: rampageproxies.com
Rampage strives to be entirely transparent on its providers and pricing, offering proxies at wholesale costs in any quantity you require. It initially purchases proxies at a lower rate from top proxy vendors like Geosurf, Smartproxy, or Oxylabs and then resells them to customers at a reasonable price.
Rampage Retail offers an exciting way to access proxies, attracting users with an extensive database of proxies, advanced anti-bot standards, and a cost-effective strategy. Conversely, it has a limited customer support contact method, no free trial, and no user self-help content. Luckily, it provides a low-cost option in the proxy space if you are on a budget.

Destination URL: packetstream.io
PacketStream is a residential proxy network with no mobile or stable ISP-based residential proxies. This proxy purchases excess bandwidth from other proxy users and leases it to its users. It also boasts a 99% uptime and zero restrictions, making browsing with its residential connections more anonymous.
Moreover, it offers an exclusive entry into the proxy space, an impressive tier pricing model, and the opportunity for other providers to benefit by selling their residential proxies. However, it has several drawbacks, like a limited direct support option, no city or state targeting, and limited self-help support. PacketStream is still worth giving a shot if you have a low-budget operation.

Destination URL: stormproxies.com
This Proxy service is intended for occasional proxy users that would forego extra features for affordable pricing plans. It provides rotating residential proxies, including back-connect rotating proxies with residential and data center IPs.
Furthermore, all its proxies provide unlimited bandwidth. Storm’s private dedicated proxies restrict accounts based on the number of IPs, whereas its rotating residential proxies limit accounts based on port numbers, with each port supporting up to 50 simultaneous connections. Also, the back-connect rotating proxies limit accounts based on the number of concurrent connections.
The proxy’s back-connect rotating proxies give you access to over 70,000 shared IPs that you can only choose among three major regions, i.e., Europe, the US, and worldwide. The 5-minute rotating residential proxies include roughly 40,000 IPs but only cover EU and US regions and do not allow you to pick your target countries or cities.
A proxy and a VPN are privacy-enhancing tools with the same purpose but perform differently. While a proxy hides your IP address, a VPN encrypts it from both ends, making it impossible for anyone to view what you’re doing on the web. Using a VPN over a proxy is a better choice for reliability and security.
Besides this, there are other areas where VPN wins over a free proxy like:
Therefore, a legitimate VPN provider is recommended if you’re more privacy-conscious and want anonymity for long-term use.

A top-tier VPN service with blazing speeds and advanced security and privacy features like robust AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy.
ExpressVPN boasts a vast global network of over 3,000 servers in 94+ countries. This VPN provider offers lightning-fast speeds, ideal for unblocking geo-restricted content from popular platforms like Netflix without lagging or buffering.
Unlike most proxies, this service guarantees the users’ privacy because it has an audited zero-logs policy. It also includes advanced security features than proxies, such as military-grade AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, onion over VPN, and private DNS.
Moreover, the VPN service offers a 30-day money-back guarantee allowing you to use it for a free trial and claim a refund if unsatisfied with its services. This lets you test how a VPN secures your online activity and data compared to a free proxy. Also, it supports up to 5 simultaneous connections on popular devices such as Windows, Android, Linux, macOS, routers, iOS, and more.

A decent network with an extensive server network that provides consistent and fast speeds. It also has additional privacy and security features, making it a good alternative for proxies.
Private Internet Access (PIA) has an extensive network of over 35,000 servers in 83+ countries worldwide. It offers stable and decent connection speeds, which are adequate for downloading, browsing, and streaming significant platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
PIA offers outstanding features that optimize your online security and privacy, making it a superb alternative for proxies. These features include an active kill switch that protects your IP addresses from leaking if the VPN connection drops, a no-logs policy, advanced split tunneling, an efficient ad-blocker, dedicated IP addresses, and an antivirus protection feature. In addition, PIA safeguards you against VPN leaks like WebRTC, DNS, and IP.
Moreover, you may try PIA for free for 30 days by taking advantage of the money-back guarantee. It allows unlimited simultaneous connection from a single account. Also, it is compatible with popular operating systems such as Smart TVs, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and others.

A reputable VPN service with advanced security and privacy features like Tor over VPN and a no-logs policy. It also provides fast and reliable speed, making it an excellent proxy alternative.
NordVPN boasts a vast global network of 5,200+ servers in 59+ countries. It also offers blazing-fast speeds suitable for torrenting, streaming, and browsing, with a minimum drop-down compared to proxies. You can enhance the speeds by switching the servers and your protocol to the next-gen NordLynx protocol.
This VPN service offers many advanced features that boost your security and privacy to ensure the best user experience. These features include a double VPN that encrypts your data twice, split tunneling, SOCKS5 proxy, Onion over VPN, dedicated IP addresses, automatic kill switch, threat protection feature, Meshnet, and dark web monitoring tool.
NordVPN has a variety of user-friendly apps for popular operating systems, including Windows, Linux, iOS, macOS, and Android. Furthermore, it has knowledgeable customer support with a live chat tool and a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to sample the service for free and then request a refund before the 30 days are over.
Proxy sites offer a standard level of security. The vast majority of proxies do not include advanced encryption features, and those that do only safeguard the browser and not the whole network. This implies that proxies will not protect other programs on your gadget.
Unfortunately, many free proxies cap your data and have a limited number of IP addresses constantly blocked by streaming platforms once they are discovered. Some may even go to the extent of stealing your bandwidth and logging your traffic. We recommend solely using proxies when browsing the internet. To enhance your security and privacy, a VPN provider like ExpressVPN is the best option.
Using a web proxy is an easy and cheap way to browse the web freely. It hides your actual IP address, thus bypassing the internet restrictions and accessing the blocked websites. With several proxy services claiming to be the best, the above are the best ones with good browsing speed, servers in major countries, and extra benefits and features that can make your experience amazing. So, do consider using those mentioned above for free best proxy services.
However, as the proxy services don’t encrypt your data traffic which is their biggest drawback, you can invest in a paid proxy service or a VPN provider. The choice is yours.
The post 13 Best Free Proxy Sites for Unblocking Sites Anywhere in 2024 appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>Spyware is a cell phone that has become a common issue these days. But thinking about it too much or being concerned about every sign that your phone is tapped could make you paranoid. Some spyware is remotely installed on your phone, but they are usually scams and do not work as advertised. But, for […]
The post How to Stop Someone From Spying on My Cell Phone appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>Some spyware is remotely installed on your phone, but they are usually scams and do not work as advertised.
But, for the regular spy apps, the hacker must have physical access to your phone. Therefore, the most essential precaution is to keep your phone with you or in a safe place.
Unfortunately, it is most common for users to download the spy app on their phones unintentionally. Spyware apps could be extremely dangerous as they can access text messages, calls, e-mails, call history, and location on your device.
So, you should detect the spy apps on your phone as early as possible and follow measures to remove the spyware.
You can safeguard your phone against spying by following the measures outlined below:
Sometimes, these spying apps are more innovative, and you cannot judge the changes to your phone. However, in most cases, there are some visible and probable signs after a spyware injection.
Some signs could signal spy apps, but other systematic issues can cause these problems.
If you witness irregular battery drainage patterns, it could be due to a spy app. Such apps are known to increase battery usage severely.
You can better detect this issue and its cause.
Battery performance decreases with passing years, or your usage patterns can also cause fast battery consumption. Some mobile apps remain functioning in the background even when you are not using them.
Other than this, spyware running in the background of your phone tends to consume more battery.
Generally, your phone turns off or restarts when you do it. But, with malware running on your mobile, there could be a sudden power off or on.
You could understand this with the example of a PC software installation.
Sometimes, when an installation is complete, the PC restarts automatically without your command or authorization. The same could be valid with malicious software; however, you are unaware of the running spy app here.
One might also notice the mobile screen light up as if it is in use. If you see it once, there is probably nothing alarming, but if it happens pretty often, you should think about it.
Feeling mobile warm is expected while using, but when not in use, this could be a signal towards spyware functioning.
Even light functioning, such as WhatsApp or Facebook usage, slightly changes battery temperature. However, it may be due to unknown software application processing if it gets too hot without reason, such as charging, long voice calls, or lengthy movie play.
Heard any strange buzz or noise while being on call? If yes, recall the history from the start, or is it sudden?
As mentioned, the spyware apps can also listen to and record your voice call, which could cause uncertain noises.
Signal issues also cause unclear or added voices, but you can confirm it through a test call from another mobile. Or, if the problem continues for a long or becomes regular, then it’s better to be vigilant.
Promotional deals, brand publicity, or a sale offer on a text message could indicate tracking, but it’s not a spyware warning.
But if a message read like this; #wet$ssaw244*& then what does it mean?
Weird text messages (usually with symbols and numbers) which are unreadable and seem gibberish could be a spyware tool. As a result, this simple SMS could initiate GPS tracking, enable a microphone, turn on the camera, or kick off other intrusive processes.
Most people don’t have track of the data usage until their limit is reached or they get a bill. If your data usage suddenly exceeds the regular usage pattern and you haven’t performed any such activity, it could be spyware sending logs to and from your phone.
Such malicious software directs your phone to unauthentic websites when your data or Wi-Fi connection is on.
Generally, it is hard to detect the change, but you can spot suspicious activity by turning off all the data using apps for some time.
Some of you might have noticed these issues, but they do not entirely indicate the spyware apps. However, it is safe to take precautions before you fall into extreme danger.
Yes, cybercriminals can install stalkware or spyware on your device from anywhere in the world because they only require an internet connection and a trap for you to interact with their malware. Furthermore, if you use an iOS gadget, anyone with your iCloud logins can spy on your phone remotely with spying tools. Hackers employ spyware for malicious reasons like blackmail, data theft, cyberstalking, and identity theft. Fortunately, you can prevent malware by installing reliable antivirus software on your phone.
Reviewing your phone’s search history may help you identify if you are being monitored. Spyware may be installed on your device if your search history includes unusual websites, downloads, or keywords.
Be wary if you discover an application you did not download and install on your phone. This may be spyware installed remotely, and you should uninstall it.
Smartphones manufactured within the last five years should run fast without exhibiting performance troubles. However, if it experiences slower connection speeds or lags in performance than typical, it may be infected with spyware. Similarly, if unfamiliar data occupy your phone’s memory or you encounter storage problems, it is probably due to spyware monitoring your phone.
You should only expect your phone’s screen to light and vibrate when receiving messages, incoming calls, or other relevant notifications. However, if it lights up randomly while in standby mode without receiving any notifications, your phone camera or screen is tracked via spyware.
Your device may have been compromised if you experience trouble while turning off your phone. This is because spyware software or apps may be running in the background of your phone, preventing it from restarting or shutting down completely.
In addition, if your device’s backlight fails to turn off to an entirely black screen, spyware is the probable cause of the difficulty. However, this can be caused by a harmless app malfunctioning, but if it happens constantly or it began recently, your phone may be infected with spyware.
Like computers, your phone tries to close all open applications before restarting or shutting down. The apps may occasionally hang up and prevent or slow the shutdown process. This occurs frequently if your gadget is infected with spyware. So, you’ll notice your phone takes longer than usual to turn off, implying that spyware is running in the background.
Android phones are more prone to spyware attacks as compared to iPhones. Therefore, it is more probable that Android users have a question, how to stop someone from spying on their cell phones?
If you have witnessed regular signs of spyware apps, it’s better to follow these ways to remove them from your phone.
This is the easiest method to get rid of any spy software.
Restoring the factory settings could be unpleasant for most mobile owners as it removes all the data and stored files. However, it is way better than giving your data to a malicious entity.
To perform a factory reset, open the phone’s Settings> Backup and Reset> Factory data reset> Reset phone. Then, select erase everything and enter your passcode if there is any.
Go to your iPhone’s Settings> General> Reset> Erase All Content and Settings. To confirm the process, enter your password.
Another way to remove the app is to delete it manually.
This way is a bit tricky as you must recognize the malicious app before getting into the removal process. Also, you must remember that several apps could work together to make up a single tool. Therefore, you should delete all the apps.
This method is less effective in removing the spy app than the above two. However, ignorance of the OS update often gives malware easy access to your phone.
If your mobile company has recently launched an update, it is most probable they have patched up the security loopholes.
If you have rooted your Android phone, it will also be removed with the OS update. Because Android rooting allows unknown and stranger apps to download, the malicious apps could also manage an easy way to your phone.
For iPhone
Updating the iPhone with the latest iOS update effectively removes the tracking programs. Also, it will remove the jailbreak if applied to your iPhone.
To update iOS, go to Settings> General> Software Update.
Malicious software could never be installed on the iPhone until it is not jailbroken. Most people jailbreak the iPhone themselves to install apps from other sources and the App Store.
On the other hand, anyone else could also do it on their iPhone with physical access.
Numerous anti-spyware software monitors malicious and suspicious activity on your phone.
These apps notify you if any new software or program is installed on your mobile phone. Through such methods, you could quickly detect an undirected installation.
Security apps allow scanning to figure out the fraudulent software that already exists on your phone and was previously installed without your consent.
Along with these general features, some distinguishing characteristics vary from app to app. For instance, Avast is a popular name for antivirus and anti-spyware.
Spyware comes in multiple forms, including:
Along with all the discussed precautions, keeping a strong password on your mobile phone is necessary. Also, try to keep your phone alone or in a safe place.
There is advanced spyware too, but most of them are detectable at any point with which you can track and remove them. However, you could equip defense before any such sign so that there could be the slightest chance of your phone being attacked by spyware.
The post How to Stop Someone From Spying on My Cell Phone appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>For most privacy-conscious netizens, privately browsing the internet has long been a dream. And amidst that, private or incognito browsing modes lure us into the false of privacy and security. With a blackened theme background and a remarkable icon, private browsing or incognito mode has long since been recognized as an illusion of online privacy. […]
The post Does Incognito Mode Hide Your IP Address? Lets Take A Look appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>For most privacy-conscious netizens, privately browsing the internet has long been a dream. And amidst that, private or incognito browsing modes lure us into the false of privacy and security.
With a blackened theme background and a remarkable icon, private browsing or incognito mode has long since been recognized as an illusion of online privacy. Such common knowledge is probably why questions regarding these modes keep swirling. It has somewhat become a dilemma on the kind of privacy and security incognito mode does or does not provide. And with that comes the litany of questions on does the incognito mode hide IP address. Does it prevent ISP monitoring and online tracking and even hide your identity?
The curiosity still gets more profound as new research on how flimsy the online privacy this model offers its users makes it to the news now and then. The only way to quench this curiosity is to start by understanding incognito mode and delving deeper into it.
The term “incognito” or “private” mode is self-explanatory and implies this false sense of browser privacy. Theoretically, the feature is designed to provide at least basic-level privacy to its users by wiping off browser history, cookies, and autofill information. These things are typically stored within your device during a regular browsing session.
However, this private mode doesn’t give you a chance to browse the internet privately at all. That’s because even with the incognito mode, your IP address and internet traffic remain visible to websites, ISPs, or even your employer or school. Despite that, private or incognito modes are now necessary for every web browser.
And this mode often comes to use in various ways, such as when you want to access specific news websites that ask you to bypass paywalls first to see additional content. Even if you’re going to do online booking or shopping and want to avail discounts, private browsing mode might prove a great advantage. Since the browser doesn’t store cookies, the website won’t know you’ve accessed it.
The feature is also helpful for anyone working on a borrowed device. However, despite the advantages the mode offers, wondering if it is safe to use in an era where online privacy ceases to exist as natural food for thought.
Incognito mode provides a convenient solution for adjusting the privacy settings of your web browser. Typically, web browsers have standard privacy settings that control the gathering of search history and the storage of computer cookies. To modify these options, you must access your browser settings and manually select your preferences.
However, incognito mode eliminates the need for manual adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when you share a computer with someone else. By enabling incognito mode, you can initiate a private browsing session where your browsing data and cookies are not saved once you end the session.
Here are a few reasons why you might find it advantageous to use incognito mode:
When you use incognito mode, cookies are automatically cleared at the end of each private browsing session. Cookies are created when you visit websites and perform specific actions, such as adding items to an online shopping cart.
Examples of how cookies can be used include:
However, cookies are generally not a concern when you use incognito mode. Each private browsing session is similar to opening a web browser as a new user without browsing history, personalized settings, or recommendations.
Every time you end your browsing session, incognito mode deletes your browsing history. This functionality helps hide your web activity from other household members.
However, others might view your history if you don’t end your browsing session.
From a privacy and security perspective, using incognito mode isn’t very reliable. The incognito mode has significant limitations and doesn’t make you anonymous over the web. The most critical concern of using the incognito mode is that it fails to hide your IP address. Everyone on your network can see your IP address, which isn’t a good sign for digital privacy. You can be easily tracked, and ISPs, government surveillance agencies, and threat actors can learn about your online activities.
Moreover, Incognito mode only provides anonymity on local devices under specific conditions. For instance, it won’t protect you against spyware or malicious programs. If spyware successfully infects your device, the private browsing mode won’t do anything to stop it. The spyware can record your internet activities and might use against you.
Even if your device has any monitoring software installed, it can track and record all browsing activities using incognito mode. The person who has administration access can view all your activities.
Browsing in incognito mode will hide your activities from others but not from the websites you visit, your ISP, and your network administrator. It means you can get tracked easily if you browse the web via private browsing in your school or public Wi-Fi. Also, whatever you download in the private browsing mode won’t be deleted.
Admittedly, using the incognito mode alone to hide your IP address or ensure online privacy will not save the day. Thus, do look for other secure ways to achieve maximum online anonymity.
Hiding IP addresses is vital to ensuring a secure web browsing experience. You might find several ways on the internet to hide your IP address. But some might offer a temporary solution, and others might be unreliable. Out of the many solutions available, below is an insight into the best three methods for hiding your IP address. So, let’s get started.
An encrypted tool such as a VPN is the best solution for hiding your IP address. A VPN ensures complete anonymity and privacy over the web in two ways:
In this way, a VPN also changes your location. When browsing the web, the VPN impersonates your actual location in the VPN server and guarantees maximum anonymity and privacy. By masking your IP address and encrypting data traffic, you can also avail other impressive benefits that a VPN offers, such as:
For a better experience without any trouble, make sure that you select the best secure VPN free from vulnerabilities. This especially goes with free VPN providers that don’t provide the desired level of protection and risk users’ privacy. Choose a VPN that protects against IP leaks and follows a no-log VPN, as it is more private and reliable.
Another impressive way to hide your IP address is to use the Tor browser. The onion router makes you anonymous over the web, so no one can trace you back. It provides layered encryption and hops your data into three nodes, and makes it impossible for anyone to trace you. It is effective while circumventing censorship, anonymous communication, and darknet access.
But unfortunately, the Tor browsers only provide encryption in the layers instead of completely encrypting the data. Thus, when the data leaves the last exit node, it goes unprotected and is prone to surveillance and hacking. But, still, there’s a way by which you can use the Tor browser safely and securely.
Some VPN providers offer Tor over VPN compatibility features. Using the best Onion router VPN, you can safely access the Tor browser and hide your IP address. The VPN first wholly encrypts your data traffic, connects you with the Tor browser, and mitigates the Tor browser security risks.
You can hide your IP address using a proxy server and enjoy complete internet freedom. When you connect to a public or private proxy server, it gives you the IP address of the proxy server. This way, your IP address gets changed. Using a proxy is somewhat of a reliable method to bypass firewalls and access blocked websites. However, like the Tor browser, the proxy doesn’t encrypt the data, leaving you vulnerable over the web.
Moreover, as most proxies are free to use, they increase the server load and slow internet speed. If privacy is not your primary concern, you can use a proxy server to hide your IP address.
Using a private or incognito mode makes you private over the web but doesn’t guarantee online anonymity. You can surf the web anonymously with cookies, browsing history, or other personal information. But since it doesn’t hide your IP address, it is easy for anyone to trace it back to you.
Your online security will be at risk because your IP address will be visible to ISP, surveillance agencies, and hackers. These snooping eyes can learn about your browsing behavior and even record whatever you do over the web by tracking your IP address.
There are various ways that you can opt to hide your IP address while browsing, for instance:
But you can not rely on these methods for a long time. Thus, it is best that you look for a more permanent solution.
Incognito mode in all web browsers supports VPN; you can connect to a VPN and browse in private mode without any hassle. The VPN’s data encryption feature will make you anonymous and private even in incognito mode. The private mode will not store cookies and browsing history, while a VPN will hide your IP address and encrypt the data traffic. No one would be able to monitor and track your online activities. In this way, you can enjoy maximum online protection over the web.
Your IP address is the identification number that connects you with the internet world. Whatever you do over the internet is stored in your IP address. Anyone monitoring your network can use your IP address to track your online activities without your permission. Your ISP is the main body that assigns you the IP address; thus, they know your every move over the web.
If they catch you doing something against their terms of use and the regional laws, they might take strict action against you. Your ISP might stop you from accessing many websites and services, and interrupt your browsing experience; they might throttle your connection. Thus, hiding your IP address and preventing ISP from monitoring and tracking your online activities is best.
Besides this, if you live in a strict restrictive regime and want to browse the web anonymously, then hiding your IP address is the best solution. Even if you’re an avid torrent downloader or streamer but worry about getting caught, it’s better first to conceal your IP address and then indulge in such activities.
If you prefer not to have any cookies or browsing history saved, you can use it in incognito mode by default. Below are step-by-step guides on how to access it in various browsers.
You can configure Google Chrome to open in Incognito Mode whenever you launch your browser. Here’s how to set up Google Chrome to open an incognito tab by default:
Mozilla Firefox also provides the option to enable the incognito mode by default. Here is how to do it:
Safari also allows you to choose incognito mode as your default option. Here’s how to go about it:
You can also set up incognito mode on Brave using the following steps:
Simply go back to the steps of enabling incognito mode and undo the new changes. For instance, if you’re using Google Chrome, go to the ‘Target’ field and delete what you had pasted.
Similarly, if you’re using Mozilla Firefox, open the Settings tab and uncheck ‘Always use private browsing mode.’
Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and even Brave, considered one of the most secure browsers, all possess information about you. While they offer private browsing modes that locally hide your searches, they still track your online activities and store your data on their servers.
Regarding data collection and surveillance, Microsoft and Google are exceptionally proficient. They possess knowledge about your age, gender, interests, geographical location, home address, workplace, the devices you own, and even your viewing habits on YouTube. They know all the images you store on their photo storage applications and retain information about the login credentials saved in their browsers.
Furthermore, they can access your entire shopping cart history, whether you made the purchases or not. If you have linked your social media accounts with your email, they have insights into your communication patterns and contacts.
Mozilla, the organization behind Firefox, follows a similar approach in its private browsing mode but in a more discreet manner. They state that they collect data like your IP address for debugging purposes and to understand better how people use their browsers. However, browser policies can sometimes be misleading in such matters.
Ultimately, the bottom line remains: Your data is stored where it shouldn’t be, and your privacy is at risk.
Distinguishing between local and online anonymity is crucial when discussing anonymous browsing. The distinction between the two varies based on where your internet activities are stored. This could be on your computers or another alternative, such as data analysis tools or websites.
In local anonymity, your data, such as cookies, history, and setting preferences, aren’t saved on your local computer. This renders you anonymous on the device you use to surf the web.
On the contrary, regarding online anonymity, your data is not saved or tracked by ISPs, government agencies, browser extensions, websites, search engines, and hackers.
In simple language, online anonymity means your information is not stored or monitored by third parties, while local anonymity means that your local device does not save your data.
Based on this distinction, it’s true to say that incognito mode provides you with local anonymity. It ensures that your data, such as history, preferences, and cookies, are not stored on your local computer. However, the incognito mode doesn’t offer online anonymity since government agencies, ISPs, and other third parties can still store and track your activity.
Despite using incognito mode, the website still stores your location, IP address, operating system, and other personal information.
While you’re taking steps to enhance your online privacy, consider incorporating the following suggestions:
Even if you activate a VPN and utilize Tor, Google can still monitor your online activities if you are still signed into your Gmail account when surfing the web. To optimize the effectiveness of your privacy tools, don’t reveal your identity through your email or social media accounts.
Most browsers have a voracious appetite for data and attempt to gather information in various ways. When you log in, the websites or pages you bookmark on your browser often synchronize with your email account. By refraining from creating bookmarks, you can prevent your browser from tracking your preferred sites, safeguarding your personal preferences and interests from being analyzed and disclosed.
Websites frequently utilize scripts for browser fingerprinting, which include details about your browser, setting preferences, operating system, browser extensions, and other technical specifications that can unveil substantial information about you. Look for a reliable private browser with ad-blocking and anti-tracking capabilities to fend off website trackers.
The IP address is the most significant information that remains visible even when using incognito mode. It serves as both an identifier and a locator, revealing your precise identity and location on the internet.
Every internet-connected device possesses a unique IP address. So, when you browse a website, you send a request to that webpage, which sends information back to your IP address.
Since every internet request is associated with an IP address, tracking someone’s online activities becomes relatively simple.
Remember, incognito mode does not prevent the linkage between your IP address and your online searches. Consequently, if you seek a safer and more private online environment, you must find alternative methods to change or conceal your IP address.
Given that an IP address serves as a gateway to your online activities, it can pose a threat if it falls into the wrong hands. If hackers gain access to your IP address, they can compromise your digital privacy, leading to various potential consequences:
Web browsers now offer an impressive private browsing mode that provides some privacy to users. Browsing the web in incognito mode means your searches, browsing history, usernames, passwords, and cookies get stored on the device.
In this way, you enjoy anonymity over local devices. But browsing in incognito mode isn’t as private as it seems. The biggest concern while browsing in incognito mode is that it doesn’t hide your IP address and makes it easy for anyone to trace you back.
Moreover, it does not protect against spyware, hackers, and parental controls. Even if you download files using the private mode, it is visible to everyone. If you want robust online protection, you need to use a VPN. The best reliable VPN provider efficiently hides your IP address and encrypts the data traffic. Because of encryption, the contents of your data are encoded and cannot be read or identified. Hence, use a VPN and hide your IP address.
The post Does Incognito Mode Hide Your IP Address? Lets Take A Look appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>The best free VPN providers are an easy and cheap way to increase your internet privacy and security without investing in a premium VPN. But since most free VPNs have several security loopholes and glitches, finding the best free VPN provider that reliably ensures robust security is tricky. Any random free VPN provider can expose […]
The post Best Totally Free VPNs in 2024 appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>The best free VPN providers are an easy and cheap way to increase your internet privacy and security without investing in a premium VPN. But since most free VPNs have several security loopholes and glitches, finding the best free VPN provider that reliably ensures robust security is tricky.
Any random free VPN provider can expose your identity and activities to the real world. These VPNs often have hidden spyware, poor encryption standards, and shady log policies. Moreover, they don’t have a vast server network, which means frustratingly slow speeds. However, not all hope is lost! A handful of free VPNs offer relatively good online privacy and security with minimum drawbacks, such as the 11 best free VPN providers in this article.
Finding a free VPN provider is a real challenge as you come across several options claiming to be the best. However, these VPNs put your privacy at risk if you use them.
You must know the VPN’s features, encryption standard, benefits, logging policy, and compatibility to choose a VPN. Thus, let’s dive deep into the detailed review of these VPN providers.

Proton VPN is the best free VPN provider with unlimited bandwidth and speed limits. It offers the fastest speeds when connected to Japan, the Netherlands, and the US servers. The VPN offers 24 servers in these three countries, so you can experience slow speeds when connected to remote servers.
The VPN is safe and protects your data, even using the free version, from all prying eyes. It uses military-grade AES-256-bit encryption, the latest advanced WireGuard protocol, and the OpenVPN protocol to protect your data from ISPs and other threat actors. Moreover, it also protects from IP and DNS leaks and boosts your online security.
Furthermore, Proton VPN is a private and trusted VPN to use. It belongs to the privacy-friendly jurisdiction of Switzerland that is neither a part of the five eyes, nine eyes, and 14 Eyes alliance nor has any data collection laws. Also, the VPN follows a strict zero-logging policy that clearly states that it doesn’t store or share your IP address, browsing history, and connection timestamp. Thus, you can use Proton VPN without worrying about your data privacy.
Proton VPN free version allows the users to access the basic core privacy features like:
You can even use Proton VPN to unblock YouTube, Wikipedia, or other social media sites. But it doesn’t support streaming or torrenting in the free plan. You can upgrade your plan to unblock the streaming content, download torrents, or access advanced features for $8/m. It offers a dedicated and easy-to-use app for Android, iOS, MacOS, Linux, and Windows but allows only a single device connection.

Atlas VPN ranks among the best free VPN providers you can download directly and start using. It won’t ask you for credit card information like other VPN providers. The VPN provider comes with a monthly data limit of 10GB, while it imposes no speed limits on the users. It means that users can enjoy stable internet speed but face a limited server network. Though it has over 700 global server networks in 35 countries, you can access only three servers in the free version the Netherlands, Norway, and the US.
The VPN makes no mistake in ensuring maximum online protection on the web. It uses uncrackable AES-256-bit encryption and WireGuard and IKEv2 protocols for data protection. Also, when tested, the VPN wasn’t leaking your IP address or DNS requests at any stage. It has private DNS servers instead of public servers, thus further strengthening your online security.
The VPN follows a no-log policy but logs only anonymous server usage data, which won’t risk your privacy. It belongs to a risky jurisdiction of the US- a leading member of the Five Eyes Alliance that shares users’ data with international agencies. Therefore, it is subject to several data privacy concerns. No records show Atlas VPN has been involved in data leaks, so you can somewhat rely on it.
One impressive feature of Atlas VPN is that it supports P2P file-sharing activities, even in the free version. But, it doesn’t help unblock the geo-blocked streaming content or benefit from advanced features like safe swap. You can upgrade to a premium plan for $2.05/m for two years.

Another free VPN that offers an essential user experience is Hotspot Shield VPN. It comes with limited bandwidth, and you can use 500MB of data per data cap, which is sometimes insufficient. The speeds the VPN offers vary from average to below average, causing frequent connection lags and hindering your browsing experience. Moreover, the server network is undisclosed and limited, thus resulting in unreliable connections.
While Hotspot Shield VPN does have speed and privacy issues, it promises superb security features. It uses the industry’s highest AES-256-bit encryption and secure tunneling protocols to safeguard your data from all prying eyes. What makes Hotspot Shield stand out is the proprietary protocol, Catapult Hydra protocol, which uses strong encryption ciphers to provide users with a top-notch level of security.
The VPN provider’s security flaw in 2018 made users doubt its credibility. It has its headquarters in the USA and does keep some data logs despite claiming to be a no-log VPN and issuing transparency reports. It ensures a basic and average user experience; you won’t find any security and privacy-centric features.
Hotspot Shield VPN allows users to download torrents, but it isn’t a good choice due to the limited server network. Also, it won’t enable users to stream their favorite content on Netflix or other streaming channels.
It offers multiple device compatibility, but if you want to enjoy an ad-free experience and connect to up to five devices, you should switch to the pro version, which will cost you $2.99/m.

Hide.me is among the best free VPN providers with a 10GB monthly data limit. You can connect to servers at five different locations and enjoy a stable internet connection without any disconnections. It is a reliable and safe VPN provider that helps retain maximum security and anonymity on the web. Also, it uses secure AES-256-bit encryption and OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols to shield your data from ISP surveillance.
The most preferred choice of the users because it allows them to use all the privacy and security-focused features that are available in the premium version, like:
Furthermore, Hide.me is a private and secure VPN because of its zero-logging policy and safe jurisdiction. It belongs to Malaysia, which isn’t a member of the global surveillance alliance and respects users’ privacy. The VPN ensures an anonymous browsing experience that doesn’t target you with intrusive pop-up ads nor track and record your data.
It is among the few free VPN providers that support torrenting and streaming. When tested, Hide.me was working fine with Netflix. Also, you can download torrents safely because it has torrent-centric features, i.e., split tunneling, that further improve your security and even speed up the downloading process.
However, because of the 10GB monthly data limit, avid torrent downloaders can have issues regarding limited bandwidth and server networks. Since the VPN offers a premium version, anyone can use it for $3.84 monthly. Hide.me is an excellent option on all your devices and operating systems.

TunnelBear is another free VPN provider that allows you to browse the web anonymously. The VPN offers average downloading speed and has a decent server network spread in 41 countries, but the exact number of server access granted is unknown.
The VPN provider maintains a top-notch level of security and allows you to surf the web without any fear of being watched. It uses the world-class AES-256 bit encryption SHA-256 hash function for authentication and secures tunneling protocols for safeguarding the data. However, the website has no information regarding the advanced security features.
TunnelBear belongs to five eyes jurisdictions in Canada. Still, since it follows a strict zero-logging policy and no previous shady records, it seems reliable.
Moreover, the VPN allows torrenting on its servers. But since it lacks a split tunneling feature with an unknown server network, you won’t have an ideal downloading experience. If you want to use TunnelBear to stream your favorite TV show or movies on US Netflix, it isn’t possible in the free version. The free version doesn’t unblock Netflix, but you can subscribe to a premium plan of $3.33/m to test its streaming abilities. The VPN promises a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can always ask for a refund within the initial 30 days of purchase.
It offers multiple device compatibility features and allows up to five simultaneous connections. But many users complain about the monthly 500MB data limit and, thus, don’t use it.

Windscribe also ranks as the best free VPN provider, with an initial 2GB data limit and a 10GB monthly data limit when you subscribe by your email address. Also, you can connect to ten international servers in Canada, France, Germany, the UK, and the US and enjoy stable internet speed without significant buffering and connection lags.
The VPN provider is safe and secure to use and uses strong AES-256-bit encryption, 4096-bit RSA key, and SHA-512 authentication key to protect your data traffic from all snooping eyes. Moreover, it offers various advanced security-enhancing features like:
Windscribe VPN follows a strict no-log policy that doesn’t collect your IP address, browsing data, and VPN sessions but records the minimum amount of data.
It also prevents IP leaks and further increases your online security. The VPN also allows secure streaming. You can stream US Netflix easily with Windscribe VPN and even download torrents on unlimited devices. The only concerning thing about Windscribe VPN is its jurisdiction. It belongs to Canada and records and shares users’ data with various surveillance agencies.

Speedify is among the best free VPN providers that offer 2GB monthly data, enough to carry out routine activities. The VPN has a global server network in more than 30 countries, but the information about the number of servers in the free version is unknown. However, when testing the VPN, many users found that the speeds were average, meaning the server network wasn’t extensive.
The VPN provider offers a top-notch level of online security by using ChaCha-256-bit encryption and secure tunneling protocols. Another impressive feature of Speedify VPN is that every user can access all its features, whether free or premium.
Moreover, it allows streaming and torrenting, but the results were not very effective when tested. Speedify belongs to US jurisdiction and even logs your data, making users hesitant.
However, if you want to get around all these issues, you can upgrade your plan and get the VPN for $4.99 monthly with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PrivadoVPN is another of the best free VPNs that ensures an excellent user experience with impressive features and robust security. The VPN has a 10GB monthly data limit, allowing users to connect to 12 servers in 9 countries. The speed offered by the VPN is above average and ensures an essential user experience.
It provides maximum online protection and thus uses AES-256-bit encryption and secure protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2. By default, it protects from IP leaks and uses an impressive kill switch feature that ensures no IP address leakage during connection drops. Privado wasn’t leaking your IP address during VPN leak tests.
Moreover, the VPN provider is private and reliable to use. It follows a zero-logging policy and belongs to Switzerland, protecting the users’ data under strict Swiss laws. However, the VPN collects a small amount of information, but it’s unidentifiable and won’t put your privacy at risk.
Privado offers an advanced split tunneling feature that helps download torrents safely. You can even download it on Android, iOS, MacOS, and Windows devices. But on the free version, only a single user can use it. Also, you won’t be able to unblock Netflix. If you want to stream on Netflix, you can buy a premium plan for $2.50 monthly and enjoy unlimited device connections.

If you’re looking for a free VPN provider that offers an intuitive interface and is easy to use and download, you can try Zoog VPN. It also ranks in the list of the best free VPNs that, like other VPN providers, offer 10GB of monthly data. It has a vast global server network, but you can only access three servers in the free VPN and thus face consistent speed issues.
You can strengthen your online security with IP leak protection and an active kill switch. The VPN uses AES-128-bit encryption in the free version and standard protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and PPTP. However, it doesn’t support the latest and advanced WireGuard protocol in the free or pro versions.
The VPN has its parent company in Greece, part of the European Union, and is subject to data retention laws. But it follows a no-log policy and thus doesn’t record or share your IP address, browsing data, or connection timestamp with anyone.
It does allow torrenting and streaming the blocked content on Netflix. However, since the VPN has a limited server network, bandwidth, and features, it won’t ensure an experience like the best top-rated VPN. Moreover, it can function on all popular devices and platforms, but you can’t enjoy too many simultaneous device connections. If you want to access Netflix or the full features that Zoog offers, you can buy it for $1.87 per month.

Another best free VPN that you can use is VPNBook. It comes with 15Mbps of daily data, which isn’t enough for a hassle-free browsing experience. Moreover, there’s no information about the number of servers you can access in five countries; thus, the speeds are unreliable and make browsing difficult.
The VPN uses military-grade AES-256-bit encryption and secure tunneling protocols to maintain the integrity of your data. Besides this, VPNBook belongs to a safe jurisdiction in Switzerland that doesn’t have any data collection. But it has a shady logging policy that makes it unreliable to use.
Moreover, although the VPN provider supports torrenting, you can’t download torrents due to an unknown server network and poor speeds. Also, it doesn’t allow you to stream geo-blocked content from Netflix or other popular streaming channels.
You must upgrade your plan to avail yourself of all the features VPNBook offers.

Betternet is also a free VPN that offers an average user experience. It provides 500MB of monthly data, which isn’t enough for streaming and downloading, making browsing problematic. It has a single server in the US, so the speeds are not ideal.
However, the VPN uses advanced AES-128-bit and AES-256-bit encryption for data encryption. Unlike other free VPNs, it doesn’t offer essential features like a kill switch and IP Leak Protection.
It’s not trustworthy because of its jurisdiction and logging policy. It belongs from the US and even logs your data, like bandwidth consumed per session, IP address, and connection logs. Moreover, it also serves ads to the users and can be a source for infecting your device with malware. You can’t use it for streaming and torrenting, either.
The primary purpose of using a VPN is to boost your internet security and privacy. But in most cases, a free VPN fails to do so. Besides this, it keeps you from availing of a premium VPN’s other perks. To shed more light on it, here are some significant drawbacks associated with a free VPN provider:
Considering all these issues, it’s vital that if you use a free VPN, it will be free from all such problems. Also, instead of using a free VPN, you can try using the best free trial VPNs.
A free VPN provider lets users use them without investing in a premium plan. It’s even an inexpensive way to freely use the web while maintaining digital security and privacy. However, since you’ll find numerous free VPNs online, trusting them for your internet security and privacy is strict.
Most free VPN providers keep logs and share your data with the government or third parties. Also, the sluggish internet connection and poor encryption standards make things worse for you. Hence, if you want to use a free VPN, make sure it’s the best free VPN like those mentioned above.
The best free VPNs are the ones that use robust encryption and basic security features that follow a no-log policy with safe jurisdiction. So, do consider using these VPNs and enjoy your browsing experience.
The post Best Totally Free VPNs in 2024 appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>There is an immense noise about artificial intelligence while several news about the impacts of Al has encompassed the entire internet. In 2017, PricewaterhouseCoopers reported that 72% of executives believe that AI will become a business advantage in the future. However, most organizations are unaware of how to utilize AI intelligently with the assistance of […]
The post Is Artificial Intelligence Powerful Enough to Revolutionize Industries? appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>However, most organizations are unaware of how to utilize AI intelligently with the assistance of human effort. Some challenges prevent companies from fruitful gains and maximum benefits through AI.
The over-assumed sparkles of artificial intelligence are somewhat a result of projected fantasy through the things such as autonomous cars, robots, or Natural Language Processing (NLP) which can depict human speech. However, a total delusion is that Artificial intelligence could serve as intellectual support similar to a human.
Although this could be an essential part of the organization, businesses can still not meet their requirements through these massive research programs. Such technologies are the ones that require a significant amount of time before their widespread adoption. For instance, Google started research on a self-driving car in 2009, and still, it would take ten years more to be in everyday use.
Artificial intelligence is a complicated aspect that requires deep concentration for accurate recruitment. Incorporating various advancements makes AI an attractive and exciting sphere; however, such technicalities are the leading cause for the projects to be risky for business at this stage.
To a certain extent, the AI has given an unrealistic high rating through the over-hyped information, which is also an early prediction. The organizations haven’t had an appropriate idea about the resources and costs required to implement machine learning technologies into the industry. Therefore, firms investing millions of money and time in AI are at risk if they haven’t adequately fabricated its workings.
The application of AI could be highly successful for firms if they intelligently implement it and their company’s human resources. As a trending technical side, much research is conducted regarding its beneficial application. Some industrial areas where artificial intelligence could address the maximum profit might be supply chain optimization, customer or employee retention, marketing performance, HR assessment process, manufacturing optimization, pricing, and anomaly detection.
Most companies and organizations are questing to achieve a high goal through AI. This common perception may persist due to the exciting and breathtaking confessions propagated regarding AI. However, an ignored aspect by many of these firms is that a considerable budget, long runway, and expensive recruitment could accompany a high target thought.
Therefore, an expected outcome could be a failure or a decision to stop executing the plan. In November 2016, Gartner predicted that 90% of enterprises would invest in C-level data science leaders until 2019. However, half of these investments will be unsuccessful due to the inadequate focus on core-business improvement.
Anticipating AI breakthroughs could distract organizations from multiple opportunities to score achievements for their business. Also, organizations revert their minds from AI recruitment due to the high investment in money, hiring, time, and risk.
Artificial intelligence could be an immense advantage for businesses. It could completely transform industrial growth, but only when accurately managed. Tractica forecasts that the revenue generated from AI software’s direct and indirect applications will grow from $1.38 billion in 2016 to $59.75 billion by 2025.
Companies should start with the target of numerous small goals so that the achievement of one could raise their confidence level for the future. On the other hand, chasing a big target demands a high investment, which could cause an immense loss.
Therefore, the companies should start with a small investment that could dramatically reduce cost, complexity, time, and resources. One important thing to remember is that the project could take 2-3 months to resonate properly, or in this period, it could be completely ready for production. However, organizations should search for new technical approaches and follow future updates.
The post Is Artificial Intelligence Powerful Enough to Revolutionize Industries? appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>The EU data retention law by the European Union, named Data Retention Directive (DRD), was passed in 2006, and therefore, it’s considered the extrusive law for data reservation. This law has emphasized that Internet providers retain users’ personal information such as incoming and outgoing phone numbers, IP addresses, geolocation, and other key telecom and Internet […]
The post Metadata Retention Law in European Union appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>This law has emphasized that Internet providers retain users’ personal information such as incoming and outgoing phone numbers, IP addresses, geolocation, and other key telecom and Internet traffic data for six months to 2 years. Although, the people who are not accused or suspect of any crime are under the Data Retention law.
However, the communication details such as the duration of conversation and the fact that to whom the person is talking is also a Data Retention Directive to the ISPs supported by the authoritarian governments of the UK and US. Yet, the collected data could also be provided to law enforcement authorities.
Many countries such as Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, France, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Norway, and the United Kingdom have swapped the laws into national legislation. Also, some of the countries outside the European Union, such as Serbia and Iceland, have adopted the data retention Directives.
Whereas, such laws to violate human rights are opposed by constitutional courts of some countries. Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, and Romania are among the nations that are fighting against unfair Directives.
However, in some countries, the law was upheld after being imposed. Those include Romania, where the DRD was announced unconstitutional in 2009, Cyprus has also declared the data retention law unconstitutional in February 2011. The Bulgarian constitutional court had opposed the law, and in March 2010, Germany had also declared retention directives unconstitutional.
This law is facing opposition and resistance from many nations. In March 2011, the DRD was reversed from the Czech Republic constitutional court’s adopted. In Lithuania, the data retention law was declared unconstitutional even before its enforcement. Also, the constitutional court of Hungary is still examining whether to implement Data Retention directives or not. However, some European Union nations have also denied implementing the law.
With the German execution of delayed adoption of DRD directive, Sweden also shows the same behavior. Therefore, the European Commission has handed over the Sweden case to European Court for not implementing the EU data retention law. Also, an NGO, the European Information Society Institute, opposes the Slovakian action of implementing EU legislation.
Although the Data Retention directives have been implemented as the national law, the dispute remains. The conflicting directives of DRD face extreme opposition and criticism from the masses. The lawmakers of the European parliament argue this law to be the one violating fundamental human rights and the way towards the creation of surveillance society. The matter of Irish opposition to the law has been referred to the European Court of Justice (ECJ), who will also review the legality of the DRD directive.
The European Commission announces influential judgment and probable revision of the DRD directive. However, some of the leaked documents affirm that the Commission has intentions to portray DRD directives as an essential need for the EU. Also, some unnamed parties are trying to expand the DRD uses to incorporate prosecution of copyright infringement.
The Commission published an evaluation report in April 2011, exposing the disparity among how the EU members implement the legislation and the data that authorities could access. Criticizing the report, European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) has said that the Commission has not demonstrated the necessity and proportionality of the EU Data Retention law. Yet, the legality of the directives would only be approved if they fulfill both the requirements.
The EDSP has argued that data retention could be implemented in a less privacy-intrusive way, but the Commission does not determine that. According to EDSP, the Data Retention Directive gives an ample opportunity to the nations to decide data usage, conditions, and who can access the data.
However, the commission is compelled by the opponent to provide the evidence to demonstrate the fact that if mandatory data retention law is unavailable, the essential traffic data for the investigation of the severe crime wouldn’t be available to law enforcement. They are also demanding the commission to allow citizens to monitor the impacts of DRD directives on their privacy.
Whereas, to stop targeted traffic data collection by DRD, European Digital Rights (EDRI), a Brussels-based NGO with organizations like EFF and AK Vorrat, are fighting against it.
But, these directives are still implemented, and it is not confirmed what changes these oppositions could compel you to incorporate into them to protect your privacy. So, you should be vigilant about securing your privacy and be aware of the Measures To Protect Yourself From Mandatory Data Retention.
The post Metadata Retention Law in European Union appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>The data retention laws creating havoc worldwide are now being imposed in many countries in different forms. These laws force ISPs to collect and store all the users’ data regarding their online activities. Violating fundamental human rights, these laws are usually formulated on the basis that allows investigators to receive these records. However, such data […]
The post Mandatory data Retention Around The World appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>Violating fundamental human rights, these laws are usually formulated on the basis that allows investigators to receive these records. However, such data retention laws give extended surveillance opportunities to governments.
The data retention laws implemented in countries with strict online privacy rules have overruled the essential requirements for securing personal information. Laws that compel individuals’ privacy usually order organizations not to retain the user’s specific data, such as billing information, for an extended period and should delete the data after a particular time.
Internet providers give their users a specific I.P. address through which they identify a user. After a particular time, an ISP changes the I.P. of the user. But with the data retention law, an ISP is compelled to retain the information regarding the user’s online activity to a specific time by tracking that I.P. address.
Through this, law enforcement agencies can access an individual by asking ISP about the I.P. address allocated to that user.
The Data Retention Laws are implemented not based on criminal activity or illegitimate deeds but for all citizens and users. Therefore, it is more annoying and concerning for those with sensitive and highly private data, such as whistle-blowers, investigators, journalists, and those engaging in political speech.
“Journalists often have the information they have to keep secret to protect the personal safety of sources. Lawyers have privileged conversations with their clients every day, and those need to stay confidential for fairness reasons.” Said the EFF Media Relations Director and Digital Rights Analyst, Rebecca Jeschke.
However, the national data retention laws are damaging individual freedom and online privacy and being intrusive and costly. These laws force Internet providers to collect users’ communication data, such as the duration of a conversation and with whom the conversation is being made. For this purpose, your I.P. address must be tracked for every online activity.
Therefore, your data is prone to be leaked or could be stolen once it is in the record. The internet provider is liable to adjust the expense of retaining and collecting the data bypassing this cost to the customers. But, on your own, you should take some security Measures To Protect Yourself From Mandatory Data Retention.
| Country | Retention Period | Authorization Required To Access Metadata | Status Of Data Retention Regime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina | Declared unconstitutional in May 2009 | ||
| Australia | 2 Years | No judicial oversight aside from the problem. | Australian Parliament passed the Data Retention Bill on 26 March. |
| Austria | Data Retention was declared unconstitutional. | ||
| Belgium | Between 1 Year & 36 Months For ‘publically available’ telephone services.No provision for internet-related data. | A magistrate or prosecutor must authorize the access. | Declared unconstitutional |
| Brazil | No Data Retention law passed | ||
| Bulgaria | 1 Year, Data could be accessed for six months more if requested. | Orders of the Chairperson of a Regional Court could only approve the access. | Declared unconstitutional twice, i.e., in 2008 & again on 12 March 2015. |
| Cyprus | 6 Months | A prosecutor could approve the access and order the proof for attempting any major crime. If a judge suspects anyone of committing any serious crime, they could order data access if it relates to that criminal offense. | On the charge of violating privacy rights, it is declared unconstitutional. |
| Czech Republic | Announced unconstitutional | ||
| Denmark | 1 Year | Judicial authentication could lead to access; court orders could also be granted if the application meets strict suspicion, necessity, and proportionality criteria. | Session logging ceased in 2014 |
| European Union | 6 Months to 2 Years | Data of every citizen would be retained. | Implemented |
| Estonia | Access could be achieved after the order of a preliminary investigation judge. | Implemented | |
| Finland | 1 Year | Judicial authorization is not necessary for competent authorities to access subscribers’ data. A court order is required for other data. | Under review |
| Germany | 1 Year | Data Retention was declared unconstitutional. | |
| Greece | 1 Year | An investigation was declared nearly impossible and challenging by means other than judicial orders for access. | Implemented |
| France | 1 Year | To access the data retention, the Police require justification and authorization from a person in the Ministry of the Interior designated by the Commission Nationale de contrôle des interceptions de sécurité. | Implemented |
| Spain | 1 Year | Competent national authorities require judicial authorization before data access. | Under reviewing process |
| Hungary | 6 Months for unsuccessful calls and one year for all other data. | Police and the National Tax and Customs Office need the prosecutor’s authentication. Prosecutors and national security agencies can access such data without a court order. | A further constitutional challenge to opposing the law is being prepared. |
| Italy | 2 Years of fixed telephony and mobile telephony data, one year for internet access, email, and internet telephony data. | The public prosecutor’s evident order could give data access. | Implemented |
| Lithuania | 6 Months | A written request is required for authorized public authorities to retain data. To access pre-trial investigations, a judicial warrant is necessary. | In forced |
| Latvia | 18 Months | Authorized officers, the public prosecutor’s office, and courts must assess the request’s adequacy and relevance, record the request, and ensure the protection of the data obtained. | In forced |
| Luxembourg | 6 Months | Judicial authorization is needed for access. | Under review |
| Malta | 1 Year for fixed, mobile, and internet telephony data, six months of internet access, and internet email data | writing Requests – Malta Police Force; Security Service. | Implemented |
| Netherlands | 1 Year of telephony, six months of internet-related data | The order of a prosecutor or an investigating judge is required for access. | On 11 March 2015, the national law was suspended. The decision is a preliminary injunction rendering the obligation ineffective. |
| Romania | 6 Months under the earlier annulled transposing law | Declared unconstitutional | |
| Poland | 2 Years | Requests must be in writing, and the case of police, border guards, and tax inspectors authorized by the senior official in the organization. | Facing challenge |
| Portugal | 1 Year | Transmission of data requires judicial authorization because access is crucial to uncover the truth or that evidence would be, in any other manner, impossible or challenging to obtain. The judicial approval is subject to necessity and proportional requirements. | Implemented |
| Slovenia | 8 Months for internet-related data; 14 months for telephony-related data | Access requires judicial authorization. | After declaring it unconstitutional, orders are given to delete the data retained under the Data Retention Law. |
| Slovakia | 1 Year for Internet services | Writing request required. | Deleted the collected data. Stopped following the orders of the European Court of Justice. |
| Sweden | 6 Months | Expected to face the judicial challenge. | |
| The U.K. | 1 Year | Access is permitted, subject to authorization by a ‘designated person’ and necessity and proportionality test, in specific cases and in circumstances in which disclosure of the data is permitted or required by law. | Judicially challenged by successful M.P.s in July 2015. Key directives of data retention law ‘disapplied.’ |
| Ireland | 2 Years of fixed telephony and mobile telephony data, one year for internet access, email, and internet telephony data. | No. Requests to be in writing from a police officer/military over specified rank & tax/customs official over the specific grade. | A challenge under court. |
| Switzerland | Under challenge | ||
| Norway | No mandatory data retention regime | ||
| USA | 1 Year for Internet metadata, email, phone records | Various United States agencies leverage the (voluntary) data retention practiced by many U.S. commercial organizations like Amazon through programs such as Prism and Muscular. | No mandatory data retention regime |
Mandatory Data Retention is an issue surfacing all around the world. Most nations observe laws that include Data retention orders for the citizens in one or another. So, if you are concerned about your privacy, follow our guide, ‘How to Protect Yourself From Metadata Retention.’
The post Mandatory data Retention Around The World appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>Android ransomware, SLocker’s source code, is revealed by a security researcher who has published it online and urged help to develop it further. The researcher has said that he has attained the source code by reversing a ransomware sample for which he has used the pseudonym fs0c1ety. He has released the code on GitHub, mentioning […]
The post Android Ransomware, SLocker’s Source Code Revealed Online appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>The researcher has said that he has attained the source code by reversing a ransomware sample for which he has used the pseudonym fs0c1ety. He has released the code on GitHub, mentioning that it’s not the original code and is for research only.
SLocker was the first Android ransomware that was spotted in 2015. Trend Micro analyzed the SLocker family earlier this month. They have said, “SLocker family is one of the oldest mobile lock screen and file-encrypting ransomware and used to impersonate law enforcement agencies convince victims to pay their ransom.”
However, they have also pointed out the identification of new ransomware in June.
This ransomware makes the device inaccessible and encrypts all the files by operating in the background. Trend Micro explains that the ransomware falsely presents itself as a game guide, video player, or similar app, making users more likely to download it.
According to the analysis, “When installing for the first time, its icon looks like a normal game guide or cheating tool. Once the ransomware runs, the app will change the icon and name, along with the wallpaper of the infected device.”
The analysis says that ransomware mainly focuses on downloaded files and pictures instead of encrypting system files and only encrypts the files which contain suffixes (text files, pictures, videos). ExecutorService (a way for Java to run asynchronous tasks) is used by the thread when it finds a file fulfilling all the requirements.
“The new task will use ‘gets’ to generate a cipher based on the previously generated random number. This method computes the MD5 of the random number and selects 16 characters as a string from the hexadecimal representation of the MD5.
“After the string is generated, the ransomware will feed it to SecretKeySpec to construct the final key for AES before using AES to encrypt files,” the analysis says.
The post Android Ransomware, SLocker’s Source Code Revealed Online appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>The post Improve Your Privacy With The best Browsing Extensions appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>Today we will explore some of the best privacy-providing browsers through our blog. These all browser extensions are free of cost and excellent in providing online privacy.
AdBlock allows preventing page elements such as advertisements from being shown while you browse online. It helps to give you the command to create your browsing experience as you want. However, you can block certain ads on some sites and scripts from the third person, transferring your data.
The way AdBlockers work is interrupting websites’ business, as they depend on online advertisement revenue.
Some people on every site use AdBlock Plus(ABP) without any exception, but others are those who make it specified for certain sites.

ABP is one of the most used AdBlocker extensions. One of the causes of it being popular is its easy working and ability to block pop-ups, rollover ads, banner ads, and much more. It is also a known malware-hosting domain with the power to stop third-party tracking cookies and scripts.
AdBlock mobile is an extension that allows users to block ads on apps and browsers. With AdBlock mobile, you can reduce your mobile data usage.
Whereas, ABP has faced critics by its users when found to pass certain company ads such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and many other large companies who pay them.
However, UBlock Origin is considered as the AdBlock alternative for online browsing.

Ublock Origin VS AdBlock provides more options for adblocking. Making it personalized, UBlock Origin allows you to control the ad visibility i.e.; you could see ads of your choice and block the one you don’t want.
In addition to this, Ublock v. AdBlock is less memory-consuming, letting you have a fast browsing experience.
UBlock Origin is accessible by Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge; ABP is available for Firefox, Chrome, Opera, Safari, Android, and Internet Explorer.
The browsing extensions providing online security also include Anti-trackers. Anti-trackers, unlike AdBlockers, protect you from malvertising (‘malicious advertising’) and tracking by stopping cookies.
The disconnect is one of the most popular anti-tracking extensions. It is easy to operate while protecting you from malware, tracking, and malvertising. It even has secure Wi-Fi and bandwidth optimization, letting you control all site scripts from the toolbar menu.

Tech giants like Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Twitter are also blocked by Disconnect generally when they make attempts to collect your data off-site.
Besides this, Privacy Badger is the extension by Electronic Frontier Foundation known for its fight against online security.

Privacy Badger Chrome makes a difference when it just doesn’t give you the list of cookies or trackers to be blocked. But the feature creating a distinctive line between Privacy Badger and others is its own heuristic algorithm that figures out your browsing activity to decide what it should block and for this, you have to use Privacy Badger chrome more often.
Privacy Badger is available for Chrome, Opera, and Firefox; Disconnect is available for Firefox, Opera, Safari, and Chrome.
In providing you secure online browsing, the above privacy extensions will definitely help you to have a much better browsing experience.
But some other tools could also cater you while browsing.
While browsing, HTTPS everywhere will provide you the secure versions of your preferred sites by taking you to SSL sites whenever possible. For this purpose HTTPS everywhere Chrome keeps you safe and provides you easy online browsing.
On the other hand, VPN is the technology which creates a secure connection to a remote server of your choice, making it seem as if your connection is coming from there. VPN keeps you anonymous and provides secure browsing.
If you want secure browsing, you need these tools and extensions which are some of the available privacy means. But with these you should be aware of the fact that having such tools is not just enough to ensure online privacy, you must use them.
The post Improve Your Privacy With The best Browsing Extensions appeared first on BeEncrypted.
]]>