If you are looking for some good free tools to use that aren't controlled and constantly under surveillance by the oppressive, power and data hungry reigning elite, or just want to "stick it to man", then this is the article for you! So without further delays, let's dive right in! Here is a list of several web based utilities that I have personally used and selected for this list.
Mega Cloud Storage
This useful little tool gives users a free 50 gigabytes of cloud storage with which you can store anything from videos, pictures, and audio files, to pdf documents, game saves, and pretty much anything that is comprised up of data. This New Zealand based company has paid options for even more space at reasonable rates.
Good: Obviously the fact that it's free, but it also has a very nice U.I. that is not only smooth in functionality, but pleasing to the eye. Users have complete control and can manage virtually every aspect of their storage.
Bad: I really don't have anything bad to say about it. I mean, what can you really say against a free cloud storage service?
Proton Mail
Proton mail is one of my favorites. It is a free encrypted email service based out of Switzerland and offers up to its free users the invaluable services of encrypted e-mails, password protected e-mails, and even can set emails to automatically delete after a set time! On top of this, it has dual password protection on the account itself.
Proton Mail also has paid options that allow you to further customize your account and increase your inbox storage.
(I've been using it free for years and still haven't reached the storage cap.)
Good: Really, what's not to love about a free encrypted e-mail service? It has a free app in the android Playstore, can be accessed anywhere via browser, and has a pretty clean interface on both platforms.
Bad: I always hate ragging on a free anything, but I will say a couple things purely out of constructive criticism, it is a little confusing at first. It can take a bit to get used to and there really isn't much help provided. Aside from that, I'm not sure if it's a bug, but there is an automated notification set up in their system that alerts you when you have an email... Ironically it alerts you via email. There is supposed to be a way to turn this off in your account settings, though when I turn it off, I still get them. aybe that's just me, maybe it's a bug.
Apps for Android
As I myself am an Android user, I can really only attest to the apps in the android playstore.
Orbot
A free proxy app that works beautifully with any internet app on your device. It uses Tor to encrypt your internet use. It even has a toggleable VPN option as well! This is no doubt a powerful tool to have on your device, and best of all, it doesn't require a root!
Good: It definitely works, encrypts all of your data, and masks your IP. Even your ISP can't see what you're doing. It's very easy to use, just turn it on.
Bad: Because the ISPs and most websites aren't particularly fond of this level of anonymity, you will be plagued with obnoxious reCAPTCHAs quite often before you can proceed to many sites. Unfortunately, it can also slow your internet speeds down. But think about it, your data is being sent through numerous tunnels throughout the world to circumvent the mainstream data net. I'd say that's a small price to pay.
Orfox
This is a pretty solid free browser that was specifically designed by the creators of Firefox to work in tandem with Orbot. It is loaded with many useful tools and functions to help keep your data and your identity safe and secure. Couple the two apps and you're essentially invisible!
Good: Well, for starters, it's not a data sponge like Chrome, it's free, and it comes jam-packed with loads of security features and settings.
Bad: Honestly, it is a bit clunky, not as aesthetically pleasing or smooth as chrome, and little outdated so you may encounter some issues with some site functions.
I hope you found this article helpful and at least of some use. Thanks for stopping by, and until next time, Stay safe and much love! ❤
Photo: iStock