10 Private and Secure Email Providers
A quick guide to protect your email
If you use Gmail, Yahoo, or other common services, you’re probably sacrificing privacy for convenience. While they offer security, they also collect your data and have allowed third parties to access sensitive information. Plus, their popularity makes them frequent targets for hackers.
You can read these articles if you don’t believe me:
Luckily, there are safer alternatives you can consider to protect your personal information. Switching providers is an easy step to take to protect your privacy.
Keys to choosing a secure email
Not all secure services are created equal. Some focus on the most advanced encryption, while others combine privacy with ease of use.
Here are the key questions you need to answer before choosing:
- Where are your servers located? Privacy laws vary by country. Where the servers are hosted is important in this regard.
- How do they protect data? Look for end-to-end encryption and encrypted storage.
- Do they collect data? Read their privacy policy. The best services don’t monetize your information.
- What tools do they offer? Calendars, storage and aliases can be great allies.
- Is it easy to use? Security shouldn’t be an obstacle to convenience.
- How much security do you need? Define your risk level: protecting financial data is not the same as protecting personal emails.
The best secure email services
- Proton Mail : With servers in Switzerland and end-to-end encryption, it is a leader in privacy. https://proton.me/
- StartMail : Unlimited aliases and simplicity from the Netherlands. https://www.startmail.com/
- Tutanota : A German option with hybrid encryption, including secure contacts and calendars. https://tuta.com/en/secure-email
- Mailfence : From Belgium, combines security with collaborative tools. https://mailfence.com/
- Posteo : Total privacy, even in payments, and 100% renewable energy. https://posteo.de/en
- Mailbox.org : Full-featured for those looking for a secure alternative to Google Workspace. https://mailbox.org/en/
- Runbox : Private email in Norway. https://runbox.com/
- CounterMail : Swedish email with strong security features. https://countermail.com/
- Kolab Now : Swiss email that complies with GDPR, HIPAA and PCI regulations. https://kolabnow.com/
- Soverin : Basic private email service. https://soverin.com/
Source: https://cyberinsider.com/email/secure/
Why pay for a secure email
If a service is free, you are probably the product. Secure providers remove ads and ensure your data is not exploited, but this level of protection comes at a cost. Investing in privacy is investing in peace of mind.
The legal factor matters
The location of servers affects the privacy of your data. The United States, for example, has laws that can force providers to share information. In contrast, Switzerland and some European countries offer a more privacy-friendly legal environment.
Beyond Email: Consider a VPN
A secure email is just one piece of the puzzle. A VPN can hide your IP and encrypt your connection , protecting your online activity from prying eyes.
Switching to a secure email service isn’t complicated and can make a big difference in how you protect your privacy. Take a moment to assess your needs and choose a provider that meets them. In a world where data is the new gold, protecting yours is a smart move.