Best Privacy Tools For Students
Ranking privacy tools based on effectiveness in protecting student data, ease of use, and additional features like encryption and ad-blocking.
Top Ranked
uBlock Origin remains the gold standard for ad blocking in 2025. Its incredibly efficient design minimizes resource consumption while blocking a vast array of ads, trackers, and malware domains. Its known for its low CPU usage and memory footprint, making it suitable for even older or less powerful...
Why this score
uBlock Origin scores 8.2/10 due to its effectiveness in blocking ads and trackers, low resource usage, and strong privacy stance. However, limited browser compatibility and potential delays in filter list updates are minor weaknesses.
Scoring methodology
Bitwarden is a highly secure, open-source password manager that offers a compelling free tier and inexpensive premium plans. Its transparent architecture has been independently audited. It supports unlimited passwords and sync across unlimited devices for free. Paid plans for individuals, families (...
Why this score
Bitwarden scores 9.5/10 due to its strong open-source architecture, independent security audits, and unlimited free password storage. However, it lacks some advanced features found in more expensive options.
Scoring methodology
The Tor Browser is a free software application that enables anonymous communication online. It routes internet traffic through a network of relays, making it difficult to trace the user's location or identity. While not foolproof, it provides a significant layer of privacy and is often used by journ...
Why this score
The Tor Browser scores 8.7/10 due to its robust privacy features and open-source nature, but it is limited by slower browsing speed and occasional access issues.
Scoring methodology
HTTPS Everywhere is a free, open-source browser extension developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation. It enhances web security by automatically enabling secure connections (HTTPS) whenever available. This protects user data through encryption and creates a more secure browsing experience for in...
Why this score
HTTPS Everywhere scores 8.7/10 due to its effectiveness in enforcing secure connections and working with multiple browsers, but it has limitations such as not working on all websites and potential compatibility issues.
Scoring methodologySignal, released in 2016, is a critically acclaimed crime thriller that utilizes a mysterious walkie-talkie to connect a criminal profiler in the present with a detective from the past. This unique premise allows for the solving of cold cases and exposes corruption within the police force. The drama...
ProtonMail remains the gold standard for encrypted email, offering robust end-to-end encryption and a strong commitment to privacy. Based in Switzerland, it benefits from strict Swiss privacy laws. Its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with ProtonVPN and Proton Calendar make it a com...
Why this score
ProtonMail scores 8.8/10 due to its robust end-to-end encryption and strong commitment to user privacy, but it is limited by its free plan options and the lack of an iOS app.
Scoring methodology
Privacy Badger, developed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), is a unique ad blocker that learns which trackers are following you and automatically blocks them. Unlike traditional ad blockers that rely on predefined lists, Privacy Badger adapts to your browsing behavior, providing a more pe...
Why this score
Privacy Badger scores 9.5/10 due to its effectiveness in blocking trackers and ads, enhancing user privacy, and being open-source. However, it may occasionally block legitimate content and slow down browsing speed slightly.
Scoring methodology
AdBlock Plus is a widely used ad blocker that effectively removes intrusive advertisements from websites, improving browsing speed and reducing data consumption. It utilizes customizable filter lists, allowing users to tailor their blocking preferences. While it offers a free version, a premium subs...
Why this score
Adblock Plus scores 8.2/10 due to its effectiveness in blocking ads and trackers, wide language support, and regular updates. However, it can occasionally slow down browsing speed and may block some legitimate content.
Scoring methodology
Dashlane distinguishes itself with a strong focus on proactive security and identity protection. Beyond standard password management, it includes a built-in VPN for all premium users, continuous dark web monitoring for personal info, and a unique automated password changer feature that can update cr...
Why this score
Dashlane scores 8.5/10 due to its strong security features and identity protection tools, but it can be expensive for some users and has a complex user interface.
Scoring methodology
Ghostery is a browser extension focused on privacy and tracking protection. It blocks trackers, ads, and web bugs, providing a detailed privacy dashboard that allows users to see which trackers are being blocked and learn more about their data collection practices. Ghostery also offers anti-fingerpr...
Why this score
Ghostery scores 8.1/10 due to its comprehensive tracking protection and detailed reporting features, but it slightly slows down browsing speed and requires regular updates.
Scoring methodology
1Password is a premium password manager renowned for its exceptional security design and polished user experience. It uses a Secret Key combined with your master password for robust encryption. For families, it offers a shared vault and recovery options. Teams and businesses benefit from advanced ad...
Why this score
1Password scores 8.7/10 due to its robust security features and user-friendly interface, but the subscription model can be costly for some users.
Scoring methodology
NoScript is a browser extension designed to improve online security by blocking JavaScript, Java applets, and other potentially harmful scripts. It offers advanced control over website functionality, allowing users to selectively enable or disable scripts based on their trust levels. This tool is pa...
Why this score
NoScript scores 8.3/10 due to its high level of customization and effectiveness in blocking malicious scripts, which significantly enhances security. However, it can be complex for users who are not tech-savvy and may cause some compatibility issues.
Scoring methodology
LastPass is one of the most widely recognized password managers, offering a generous free tier that syncs across all device types. It provides core features like password generation, secure sharing, and a security dashboard. Families can use the Families plan for up to 6 users. Business plans includ...
Why this score
LastPass scores 9.2/10 due to its robust security features, user-friendly interface, and generous free tier. However, occasional syncing issues and the cost of premium plans can be drawbacks.
Scoring methodology
PrivacyGuard offers typical premium credit monitoring features, including monitoring your credit reports from all three bureaus and notifying you of any potential fraud. It also includes secure browser and secure keyboard features for both your computer and mobile device, which “protect you from key...
Why this score
PrivacyGuard scores 9.5/10 due to its comprehensive credit monitoring features, real-time fraud alerts, and secure browsing tools. However, it lacks some advanced features like dark web monitoring and identity theft protection services.
Scoring methodology
KeePass is the original, classic open-source password manager. It is a Windows-native application that has been around for decades. It is entirely offline, storing your database in a local file that you manage. While its interface is quite dated and utilitarian, its extensibility is legendary. There...
Why this score
KeePass scores 8.9/10 due to its high security, open-source nature, and extensive plugin ecosystem. However, the lack of built-in cloud sync and an outdated interface bring down the score.
Scoring methodology
