The growing data mining by companies like Google and Facebook makes unlimited access to privacy-sensitive data like your browsing history a serious concern. One way to regain control is to use open-source applications. However, spending money is unnecessary to avoid risks online. A multitude of applications, many low-cost or free, exist to safeguard your data, your browsing, and your online identity, especially if you are using Linux or other open platform
Why Open Source + Budget Tools Matter
Open-source software means you (and anyone) can see the code. That transparency builds trust, you don’t have to blindly trust a company’s promises about privacy. And even better: many of these tools are free or offer useful free tiers. If you care about privacy but don’t want to pay subscription fees, open-source + budget tools are a win-win.
Privacy Tools Worth Considering
Private Web Browsing: Replace Mainstream Browsers
- LibreWolf, a privacy-focused, open-source browser based on Firefox. It removes telemetry, disables many “phone home” features, and by default clears cookies and history when you close it.
- Brave, also open-source, comes with built-in ad and tracker blocking, anti-fingerprinting, and a “private browsing with Tor” mode that adds anonymity.
Use these instead of browsers like Chrome or Edge if you want stronger privacy by default.
Secure VPN or Anonymity Tools
A VPN helps hide your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic.
That means ISPs, websites, and prying eyes have a harder time seeing what you do.
- Look for a free or low-cost VPN that supports Linux. Some VPN solutions are well-suited for open-source users, and the VPNoverview team frequently highlights strong candidates in this category. For example, if you search for a free VPN for Linux you’ll find options designed to work on many Linux distributions, ideal if you don’t want to pay each month.
- For situations where you need real anonymity (not just a VPN), a privacy-focused browser plus a VPN can help you stay safer online.
Password Managers & Secure Vaults
Strong, unique passwords per account are essential, but no one can remember dozens of complex passwords. That’s where password managers come in.
- Proton Pass, an open-source password manager that uses strong encryption to store login credentials, passkeys, cards, notes and more. Works on Linux, Windows, macOS, mobile and browsers.
- If Proton Pass isn’t for you, there are other open-source password-manager tools commonly recommended for Linux and privacy-conscious users.
Private Communication & File Sharing
Normal messaging apps and email services often collect data, track you, or scan your messages. Instead, use privacy-focused tools.
- Signal, a free, open-source messaging app offering end-to-end encryption, for private texting, calls or file sharing. Works on desktop and mobile.
- OnionShare, lets you share files privately and securely over the Tor network. Good for sending sensitive documents without using mainstream cloud services.
Putting It All Together, A Simple Privacy Workflow
Here’s one way you could combine these tools for daily use:
- Use LibreWolf or Brave for everyday browsing to minimise tracking and data leaks.
- Connect to a VPN (preferably one supporting Linux) when on public Wi-Fi, or when you want to hide your IP.
- Store all your passwords and logins in Proton Pass so you don’t reuse or forget weak passwords.
- Keep sensitive documents encrypted with VeraCrypt (or encrypted with GPG) so even if your device is lost or hacked, data stays safe.
- Use Signal or OnionShare to send messages or share files privately, no need to rely on ad-driven or data-harvesting platforms.
You don’t need to use all tools all the time, pick what fits how you use your computer. Even a few changes can greatly improve your digital privacy.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend a lot to be private online. With a bit of care and a few open-source tools, you can lock down your data and control what you share, or don’t share.
If you’re on a budget and want to stay open-source-friendly, try mixing a privacy-focused browser, a VPN, a password manager and encryption tools. Once you get used to them, you’ll probably wonder why you ever trusted ad-driven cloud services or default browsers.