APPS & TOOLS to improve LINUX PRIVACY & SECURITY

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to improve your privacy and security on Linux. By utilizing various applications and tools, you can safeguard your data and enhance your online anonymity. This guide covers encryption, antivirus options, sandboxing applications, web monitoring, and more.

Step 1: Encrypt Your System or Specific Folders

Encryption is crucial for protecting sensitive information.

• During installation, choose a Linux distribution that offers full disk encryption (e.g., Ubuntu, PopOS).
• If encryption was not enabled during installation, you can encrypt your home folder using ecrypt-utils. Follow the detailed guide here: Encryption Tutorial.
• For a user-friendly option, KDE's Plasma Vaults allows you to create encrypted folders with unique passwords for each vault.

Step 2: Install Antivirus Software

Protect your system from malware and viruses.

• ClamAV is a recommended open-source antivirus solution. You can also install ClamTK for a graphical interface.
• Regularly update the virus definitions and scan your system for threats.

Step 3: Manage Application Permissions

Control the permissions of your applications to enhance security.

• Use Flatseal to manage permissions for Flatpak apps. It enables you to grant or revoke specific permissions easily.
• For sandboxing applications installed from regular packages or AppImages, consider using Firejail. Install it along with Firetools for a graphical interface to manage sandbox settings.

Step 4: Monitor Network Activity

Keep an eye on your system's network requests.

• Portmaster by Safing is an open-source tool that monitors all network requests and allows you to restrict them as needed.
• It also includes a system-wide ad and tracker blocker to enhance privacy.

Step 5: Use a VPN for Online Privacy

A VPN can provide another layer of anonymity online.

• Research and select a VPN that fits your privacy needs. A useful resource is TechLore's VPN chart: VPN Recommendations.

Step 6: Utilize a Portable Private Operating System

For added privacy on public computers, consider using:

• TAILS, which runs from a USB stick and offers encrypted persistent storage. This is ideal for sensitive tasks on unsecured machines.

Step 7: Choose Privacy-Focused Web Browsers and Search Engines

Your choice of browser and search engine can significantly impact your online privacy.

• Consider using Brave, which is less intrusive than Chrome and is well-configured for privacy.
• Firefox can be tailored for privacy by disabling telemetry in the settings.
• Explore LibreWolf, a privacy-focused fork of Firefox that comes without telemetry.
• For search engines, avoid Google or Bing. Instead, try Ecosia or Startpage for anonymous search results.

Step 8: Regularly Clean Up Your System

Removing unnecessary files can help protect your privacy.

• Use BleachBit to delete cache files, cookies, and logs.
• To securely delete files, use GNOME File Shredder.

Step 9: Protect Sensitive Images

If you need to share images but want to hide sensitive information:

• Use Obfuscate to effectively hide information in images beyond simple blurring techniques.

Conclusion

By implementing these steps, you can significantly enhance your Linux privacy and security. Start with encryption and antivirus solutions, manage application permissions, and make informed choices regarding your online activities. Regular maintenance and utilizing the right tools will help you maintain a secure environment. For further exploration, consider diving into each tool and adjusting settings to fit your specific privacy needs.