June 2025 - Forenova

Top 10 Privacy Tools: Safeguard Your Data with Ease

Posted on June 25, 2025June 26, 2025 by ForeNova

Have you ever pondered how many pairs of eyes observe your online activity?

Given the many online threats, safeguarding your data is extremely important in the digital environment. Maintaining your online privacy is no longer just a suggestion but a necessity.

Whether using public Wi-Fi or at home, choosing the correct privacy tools is crucial for protection. To find the most effective tools, we have created a list of the top ten privacy tools to secure your data effectively and efficiently.

The Importance of Leveraging These Privacy Tools for Everyday Cyber Protection

Online threats are common for tech users. Privacy tools can boost cyber protection. A VPN acts as an internet bodyguard, encrypting data and hiding your location. Password managers store strong passwords to lower the risk of breaches.

In addition, using encrypted messaging and email services can help keep your conversations private. Privacy-focused web browsers block trackers that follow your online activity. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) provides added security to your accounts, making it harder for unauthorized access. By incorporating these tools into your digital habits, you can protect yourself from cyber threats and safeguard your personal information.

1. VPN Services

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become indispensable for anyone serious about online privacy. VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, hide your IP address, and create a secure encrypted channel for your data to travel. As a result, you can browse the internet anonymously and access content that might otherwise be restricted in your region.

Proton VPN

Proton VPN provides a tool for navigating the internet with enhanced privacy and security. It creates an encrypted connection for your online traffic, helping to shield your activities from monitoring by third parties, including internet service providers and potential trackers.

Operating under strict Swiss privacy laws, Proton VPN adheres to a no-logs policy, meaning your Browse history and online movements are not recorded. This service can also assist in accessing online content that might be restricted in certain regions, or for generally Browse the web with a greater degree of digital freedom.

IVPN

IVPN is a virtual private network service designed with a focus on user privacy and security. It facilitates encrypted internet connections, aiming to prevent third-party monitoring of online activity, such as by Internet Service Providers.

The service emphasizes transparency and a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not record user Browse data. IVPN offers features like multi-hop connections for enhanced routing of traffic through multiple servers, and AntiTracker to help block ads and web trackers.

Mullvad

Mullvad VPN offers a service focused on digital privacy. It operates by encrypting your internet traffic and routing it through its network, aiming to obscure your online activities from your Internet Service Provider and other potential observers.

A key aspect of Mullvad’s approach is its commitment to not logging user activity. Accounts are generated with a unique number, rather than requiring personal information like email addresses.

2. Password Managers

Password managers simplify online security by securely storing your login details and helping you generate strong, unique passwords for every account.

Proton Pass

Proton Pass functions as a secure password manager and digital identity organizer. It’s designed to help users generate strong, unique passwords for their various online accounts and store them in an encrypted vault. Beyond passwords, it can also secure notes and other sensitive information.

The service incorporates features like email alias creation, aiming to reduce the exposure of your primary email address when signing up for new services.

1Password

1Password is a password manager that helps users create, store, and manage strong, unique passwords for their online accounts. It encrypts this information and makes it accessible across various devices, aiming to simplify the process of using complex credentials while enhancing security.

Beyond passwords, 1Password can also securely store other sensitive data, such as credit card details, secure notes, and software licenses.

Keepass XC

Keepass XC is a free and open-source password manager. It allows users to store their passwords, alongside other sensitive data like notes and file attachments, within an encrypted database. This database is secured with a master password or key file, or both.

Designed for offline use, KeePass XC prioritizes local data control, meaning your password database is stored on your own device rather than in the cloud.

Psono

Psono is an open-source password manager designed to help users securely store and manage their digital credentials. It provides a platform to create strong, unique passwords for various online accounts and keeps them encrypted.

The service can be self-hosted, allowing users to maintain control over their data on their own servers, or it can be used via a hosted version.

3. Encrypted Messaging Apps

Secure messaging apps are vital for individuals who prioritize privacy when communicating. They safeguard conversations from unauthorized intrusion and nosy individuals.

Signal

Signal is a frontrunner in secure messaging thanks to its end-to-end encryption. Only you and the person you are communicating with can read the messages, ensuring your conversations remain private. Signal’s open-source nature allows for continuous security auditing, making it a trusted choice for privacy-conscious users.

Briar

Briar is an open-source messaging application designed for secure and resilient communication, especially in challenging environments. Unlike traditional messaging apps, it doesn’t rely on a central server. Instead, it connects users directly, either over the internet (via Tor) or via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing communication even when internet access is unreliable or censored.

Element

Element is an open-source messaging application built on the Matrix protocol, designed for secure and decentralized communication. It provides end-to-end encryption for all messages, calls, and files, aiming to ensure that conversations remain private between participants.

4. Privacy-focused Browsers

Privacy-focused browsers protect your online activities from being tracked and monitored. They offer settings and features that prioritize privacy, making them vital tools for anyone concerned about their digital footprint.

Brave

The Brave browser prioritizes privacy by automatically blocking ads and trackers, improving browsing speed, and safeguarding online privacy. Users can earn rewards through Brave’s unique Basic Attention Token system, converting attention into an asset.

Firefox

Firefox is another stalwart in the privacy-focused browser category. It offers extensive settings that allow you to customize your browsing experience. Users trust Firefox for its commitment to transparency and open-source development, ensuring the browser’s integrity remains intact.

Mullvad Browser

Mullvad Browser is a web browser developed in collaboration with the Tor Project, designed with a focus on privacy and minimizing digital fingerprinting. It aims to reduce the amount of unique identifying information your browser shares with websites, making it harder to track your online activity.

5. Secure Email Providers

Trustworthy email services safeguard your messages against unauthorized intrusion by employing encryption to guarantee that only the designated recipients can view them.

ProtonMail

ProtonMail offers end-to-end encryption for your emails, securing them from unauthorized access.

Switzerland’s strong privacy laws benefit ProtonMail, adding an extra layer of user protection. The service’s user-friendly interface makes encrypted email communication simple and accessible.

Tutanota

Tutanota encrypts every email, safeguarding your communications from prying eyes with its ad-free experience. The platform’s commitment to open-source development ensures transparency, providing insights into how your data is managed and protected.

Mailbox.Org

Mailbox.org is an email service that emphasizes privacy and security. It provides standard email functionalities, alongside features like an online office suite, cloud storage, and calendar capabilities.

A key aspect of Mailbox.org is its commitment to data protection, operating under German privacy laws.

6. Multifactor Authentication Tools

Ente Auth

Ente Auth is an authenticator application designed for generating time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) and HMAC-based one-time passwords (HOTP). It provides a way to secure online accounts by adding an extra layer of verification beyond just a password.

A key characteristic of Ente Auth is its emphasis on encryption and synchronization across devices.

Aegis Authenticator

Aegis Authenticator is a free and open-source application for generating one-time passwords (OTP), used for two-factor authentication (2FA). It supports both time-based (TOTP) and HMAC-based (HOTP) algorithms.

The application allows users to store their 2FA secrets securely on their device, encrypted with a master password or biometric authentication.

7. Anti-Tracking Extensions

Anti-tracking extensions protect your online privacy by blocking trackers that monitor your internet activity.

Privacy Badger

Privacy Badger automatically blocks trackers, enhancing your online privacy without requiring extensive configuration. As you browse, Privacy Badger learns and adapts, continuously improving its protection against emerging threats. The extension’s simple interface makes it easy for anyone to enhance their privacy.

Ghostery

Ghostery offers comprehensive tracking protection, blocking intrusive ads and trackers to enhance your browsing experience. Users appreciate Ghostery’s detailed tracker analysis, providing insight into the entities tracking their online activities. The extension’s user-friendly dashboard allows for customizable privacy settings, putting you in control of your data.

8. Secure Cloud Storage Platforms

Protected cloud storage services use encryption to safeguard your data, ensuring files are secure from unauthorized access. They provide safe storage options for individuals and businesses.

Tresorit

Tresorit provides end-to-end encryption for cloud storage, safeguarding your data from unauthorized access. With a zero-knowledge policy, Tresorit ensures complete privacy, allowing you to access only your files. The platform’s intuitive interface makes secure file storage accessible to all, regardless of technical expertise.

Proton Drive

Proton Drive is an encrypted cloud storage service designed with a focus on data privacy and security. It allows users to store files and documents in the cloud while maintaining end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the user can access their stored data.

Peergos

Peergos is a decentralized, end-to-end encrypted file storage and communication platform. It aims to give users full control over their data by making it impossible for the service provider to access or censor content.

Operating on a peer-to-peer network, Peergos allows users to store files, share them securely with others, and engage in encrypted messaging.

9. File Sharing and Sync

Send

Send is a secure file share and sync solution designed to streamline how teams collaborate and manage digital assets. It provides a centralized, accessible platform for storing, sharing, and synchronizing files across multiple devices and locations.

Onionshare

Onionshare is an open-source tool designed for secure and anonymous communication over the Tor network. It allows users to share files, host websites, and engage in private chats without relying on centralized servers or revealing their identity or location.

Freedom Box

Freedom Box is an open-source personal server designed to empower individuals and small communities to take control of their online services and data. It transforms inexpensive, low-power hardware (like single-board computers) into a secure and private hub for various digital needs.

9. Secure Email clients

Thunderbird

Thunderbird is a free and open-source desktop email client developed by the Mozilla community. It provides a robust and customizable platform for managing all your email accounts, newsfeeds, and chat services in one unified application.

Designed with user control and privacy in mind, Thunderbird keeps your data local on your computer, offering an alternative to web-based email services that may collect personal information.

Apple Mail

Apple Mail is the built-in email client included with macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and watchOS devices, offering a seamless and integrated experience for managing your email communications across the Apple ecosystem. It provides a clean, intuitive interface designed to simplify the process of sending, receiving, and organizing messages.

Fairmail

Fairmail is an open-source, privacy-focused email client designed for Android devices. It offers a comprehensive set of features for managing multiple email accounts while prioritizing user data security and minimizing tracking.

10. Owning Your Own Cyber Resiliency

All technology users must use privacy tools for their security features. The digital world is full of dangers, such as complex phishing attempts and widespread data breaches, which aim to compromise personal and financial security. You are creating a vital defense by using tools like VPNs, which secure your internet traffic, and password managers, which strengthen your accounts.

These tools are not just about “hiding” and exercising control over your digital footprint. They provide essential safeguards, protecting your privacy and mitigating the risks of identity theft, financial fraud, and targeted cyberattacks. Embracing these security-enhanced privacy tools empowers you to navigate the online world with greater confidence and resilience.

Questions About These Tools?

If you have questions regarding these tools, please contact the Forenova team!

16 Billion Leaked Passwords & Why 2FA Is Not The Full Answer

Posted on June 20, 2025June 20, 2025 by ForeNova

A recent investigation by Cybernews and independent researchers has uncovered a massive leak: over 16 billion unique credentials have been exposed in what is likely the largest dataset of stolen usernames and passwords ever compiled by cybercriminals (source). The credentials were scraped from previous breaches and infostealer malware infections and are now circulating freely on underground forums.

Why It Matters for Your Organization

Apple IDs and Google accounts to GitHub repositories, Facebook profiles, Telegram and government portals. This is full-spectrum access to cloud infrastructure, codebases, internal chats, and authentication gateways.

When threat actors can impersonate legitimate users across dozens of platforms, the attack surface explodes.

Here’s what can happen next:

Account takeover attacks (ATO) across business systems

Stolen credentials allow attackers to impersonate employees and access internal systems undetected.

For example, an attacker logs into your Microsoft 365 admin portal using leaked credentials from a sales manager’s personal email. They set up forwarding rules to silently exfiltrate sensitive client emails and remain undetected for weeks.

Spoofing Campaigns

Leaked credentials make it easier for attackers to impersonate your staff in phishing or fraud attempts. Like a finance team member sending fake payment instructions to vendors.

Credential stuffing in SaaS platforms, M365, and VPNs

Automated tools test leaked usernames and passwords across multiple platforms, exploiting reused or weak credentials. Attackers could successfully log into your company’s project management collaboration tools and download internal engineering documentation.

Credential-based attacks often bypass traditional defenses and go unnoticed without behavioral analytics or continuous monitoring.

Password Reset and 2FA: Not Enough

Yes, the immediate advice is still valid:

Force password resets

Enforce two-factor authentication

Disconnect and re-connect any accounts and services using old credentials

But that’s like locking your door after someone has already stolen the key. You’re still blind to whether someone is already inside.

The Key is Threat Visibility

When stolen credentials can bypass firewalls and endpoint protection entirely, Managed Detection and Response services like NovaMDR can:

Monitor for suspicious logins and lateral movement

Detect abuse of privileged accounts in real time

Get 24/7 cybersecurity experts-led analysis to identify if your organization is being spoofed or targeted

Unlike antivirus or SIEM tools, NovaMDR fuses AI-driven detection with human threat hunting, even across encrypted traffic and unmanaged endpoints

Request a free demo and see how it works.

Supercharging Your Security Strategy: Threat Modeling for Proactive Threat Hunting

Posted on June 13, 2025June 17, 2025 by ForeNova

Combining threat modeling with threat hunting helps detect and prevent cyber threats. Threat modeling’s value is its ability to Identify potential vulnerabilities and exploits before a new application or system platform moves to production.

Threat hunting involves examining security telemetry for suspicious activity and figuring out the impact, especially if it bypassed corporate security systems.

Organizations struggling to hire and keep cybersecurity threat hunting and modeling resources look to managed detection and response (MDR) providers like ForeNova.

Key Takeaways

Threat modeling provides a structured approach to identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities
Integrating threat modeling into your security strategy enhances your threat detection capabilities
Avoid common pitfalls by keeping your threat models up-to-date and comprehensive
Incorporate threat modeling insights into your daily security operations
Foster a culture of continuous improvement through proactive threat hunting

Understanding Threat Modeling

The threat of a cyberattack exists across every element of the enterprise IT and digital environment. Even with a wide range of vulnerabilities to manage, organizations need to evaluate which vulnerability will cause the greatest damage. Threat modeling became a proactive approach to evaluating possible exploitable vulnerabilities the level of risk.

Exploring the Basics of Threat Modeling Techniques and Tactics

Security engineers can choose from various attack vectors and methods to help better assess whether their current security controls align with protecting a newly developed architecture or application.

Threat modeling involves four parts:

Document the systems: What are the organization’s current application and system development projects?
Choose a variety of attack vectors: What cyberattacks or disruptions can we expect?
Document and enable cybersecurity controls: Does the organization have the most updated security tools to help stop a next-generation cyberattack?
Analyze the results: Did the existing cybersecurity defensive tools prevent the various simulated attacks against attack surfaces?

The organization can assess the risk by analyzing threat modeling and attack assessment.

Benefits of Threat Modeling With Threat Hunting

Threat modeling is an ideal partner for helping threat hunting become far more productive. Based on their analysis, threat hunting teams can use modeling to focus more on higher-priority risk areas within the organization’s digital landscape.

The threat model also helps the organization by providing the needed artifacts for the leadership to make important decisions, including stopping an application or system from moving into production.

Improving Security Posture with Threat Modeling

The global threat landscape changes consistently.

Threat hunters’ ability to identify newer cyberattacks against their organization’s most critical assets helps lower risk and improve their overall security posture. Modeling provides much-needed analysis for organizations to evaluate their current defensive capabilities.

Threat modeling combined with threat hunting helps organizations understand how the changes in the threat landscape will affect their various attack vectors. This valuable insight into the dynamics of threat evaluation prompts organizations to become far more fluid in their cybersecurity strategies, in how to respond to threats, and in what changes to their architecture need to be made.

Unfortunately, organizations waste valuable financial and human resources without leveraging threat modeling with threat hunting.

Practical Tips for Effective Threat Modeling in Threat Hunting

Security teams have several strategies for best integrating threat modeling into threat hunting. Threat modeling engagements need to begin with the designation of a specific framework. STRIDE, PASTA, Trike, and VAST modeling are examples of threat modeling frameworks.

These frameworks accomplish similar goals. They all help determine the level of risk against specific digital assets and identify the core weaknesses in cybersecurity defense tools.

Organizations must consider the right tool based on the platform they plan to analyze and the expected output. STRIDE is an excellent framework for testing software applications. PASTA is a fantastic framework for simulating attacks on various platforms to help determine the risk and the ability for the security to react, block, and remediate.

Once the decision regarding the threat modeling framework has been made, the next important step is to ensure the threat modeling activities integrate into threat hunting tools. These tools include security information event management (SIEM) platforms, extended detection and response (XDR), and endpoint detection and response (EDR).

The integration into threat hunting tools helps threat modeling teams with a location to store their various artifacts. These hunting tools help provide a valuable analysis that becomes part of the overall threat modeling after-action reporting.

Many artifacts from threat hunting tools become part of the threat modeling analysis, including attempts to breach the various attack surfaces. Part of the threat modeling strategy is targeting different attack surfaces with varying vectors of attack, looking for vulnerabilities and exploits that bypass the defense tools. By discovering these bypasses, security teams can create a strategy to reduce the risk.

More to the point, not every exploited vulnerability is high security for the organization. Threat modeling provides the ability to establish a level of priority for threat hunters to concentrate their efforts on specific digital assets that, if compromised, could have a huge financial and business impact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Threat Modeling

Threat modeling methodologies are not a perfect science. Security teams need to develop a very fluid and dynamic process for planning to use threat modeling. When creating a threat modeling workflow, security teams must remember that the process must change with each cycle. How threat modeling works has a lot to do with the choice of framework and what application, network, or cloud-based platform is being validated. Most importantly, threat modeling needs to align with changes in the threat hunting process.

Threat modeling for the PASTA framework is an entirely different strategy from using Trike. This decision to change frameworks may cause additional levels of collaboration between the various teams. Failure to collaborate between the security operations and application team results in a faulty analysis regarding the risk and the ability to validate if current security controls will prevent a future exploit.

Integrating Threat Modeling into Security Operations

Threat modeling is critical to Security Operations (SecOps) detection and response workflows and integration. One significant component of a threat modeling exercise is validating the organization’s ability to use its current set of cybersecurity defense tools to respond to a cyber threat. This portion of the threat modeling engagement is essential for organizations to determine if their current incident response, remediation, and reporting can prevent a next generation cyberattack powered by adversarial AI.

Along with integration into incident response, threat modeling also requires the organization to execute a continuous monitoring capability across all assets within its enterprise. Organizations rarely have the resources to monitor everything or thoroughly investigate every security breach. This decision not to cover 100% of the assets becomes a security risk. Integrating the threat model into the continuous monitoring happens by establishing an element of prioritization. The threat model helps establish a priority level based on the highest level of risk by asset. SecOps teams can take the updated prioritization list from threat modeling and adjust where they need to apply continuous monitoring.

By successfully integrating threat modeling into SecOps, the security team will become more efficient by aligning their efforts to protect the organization’s most critical assets. Along with greater efficiencies, SecOps will also help improve the organization’s security posture through the integration with threat modeling and threat hunting.

Conclusion

Threat models influence threat hunters’ techniques. Threat modeling, working together with threat hunting, can reveal unknown threats, indicators of compromise, and indicators of attack. Security operations centers need a solid threat modeling strategy to better guide threat hunting and validate security defenses against hidden threats. Extending threat hunting with threat modeling also helps with identification, better detection, and threat analysis.

Businesses interested in better cybersecurity should work with a company that offers managed detection and response services. ForeNova’s security engineering expertise extends beyond capturing endpoint telemetry and identifying persistent threats.

The firm helps organizations with a continuous monitoring function that brings even further value regarding threat monitoring and threat hunting.

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