• Ghostery new

    Are you concerned by companies tracking your activity online? Ghostery is an effective free browser add-on that automatically detects snooping trackers, beacons, pixels, and tags, which are often used by ad networks and data providers. If a tracker is detected - and they will be - you can quickly see details of the company involved and decide whether to block them. The hunter has now become the hunted! Functions on all major Web browsers.

  • Ultrasurf new

    A highly popular free proxy program. Ultrasurf allows you to surf the Web with privacy and security. The software hides your IP address and uses a proxy-based method of connection, enabling you to bypass censorship and other restrictions, or simply hide your true Internet identity. The program uses end to end encryption, and thanks to its small file size, can even be run from a USB data stick or SD card.

  • Hotspot Shield new

    A free, advertisement-supported VPN service, Hotspot Shield enables you to surf the Internet anonymously. The "free" version of the software cloaks your IP address, allowing you to access locally restricted sites using HTTPS for greater security. Basic malware protection is now included in the free version, but you'll need to upgrade to enhance this capability. Functions on Windows and Mac. A mobile version is coming soon.

  • SecurityKISS new

    A free VPN (Virtual Private Network) utility that protects your online identity, lets you bypass local censorship, and increases overall Internet privacy. The free plan has a data limit of 300MB per day from a single computer and supports Web access only (so no online gaming, VoIP, streamed music, or use of e-mail clients such as Outlook, etc.). You are, however, still able to access Web e-mail, such as Gmail, Hotmail and similar sites. Three servers are supported in the "free" package. Functions on Windows, Mac, Linux and some mobiles.

  • CyberGhost new

    CyberGhost VPN Free is a must-have free download for anyone wanting to surf the Web anonymously. The service helps to prevent electronic trails being created by hiding geolocation information and IP spoofing. It is also highly recommended if you use publically available Internet access points. Thanks to high encryption, data transfer (whether that's e-mail, instant messages, Web surfing, etc.) is completely secure. Functions on modern versions of Microsoft Windows.

  • mail2web

    This service allows you to access your POP3 e-mail inbox from anywhere in the world safely and securely (especially if you select the "Secure Login" option). Ideal for when you're on the move or when you need to access your messages remotely, mail2web functions very much like any other Web mail interface, and allows you to send mail, forward, compose and even delete messages on the fly. They also support smartphone access but this is not totally free, although a 60 day trial is available.

  • Hide My Ass!

    Amongst a range of commercial privacy services, Hide My Ass! provides a free anonymous surfing tool, allowing you to browse Web sites without leaving an electronic "paper trail". The service masks your real IP address and ensures a complete private browsing experience. Note: The free surfing tool is supported by advertisements.

  • Passpack

    A free and fully featured online password manager service, allowing users to easily and securely store up to 100 login details. Passpack supports tagging of entries, encryption, cross computer synchronisation, anti-phishing capabilities, and a import, export and backup facility. Another feature we are particularly fond is the ability to set up disposable logins for use when you're travelling, thereby adding an extra level of security.

  • Lavasoft Ad-aware Free

    The most popular free anti-spyware utility, this complete solution detects and removes all kinds of dodgy files, including trojans, worms and "malware" (malicious software purposely designed to harm computers). It even helps to protect you from identity theft. Ad-aware thoroughly scans your system registry and other folders to safely delete any rogue packages that may be attempting to relay information about your surfing habits to advertising companies. Inexperienced computer users will also find Ad-aware easy to use. Its "wizard style" interface allows for the step-by-step deletion of spyware.

  • Comodo Free Firewall

    A free and award-winning personal firewall, offering a reliable level of protection against hacker attacks. Comodo secures against both internal and external threats, making your system far more secure than if you only used the bundled firewall application with Microsoft Windows. This program also prevents Trojan intrusions and safeguards your PC from personal data theft. Functions on modern versions of Windows.

  • ZoneAlarm

    ZoneAlarm is widely regarded as the most popular freeware firewall. This program protects your computer from malicious hacker attacks, viruses and intruders. It will also notify you of any attempted break-ins and then advise on how to deal with them. As a user, you can customise your level of protection and also surf the Internet in "stealth mode", invisible from the outside world.

  • Ashampoo Free

    This free firewall helps to protect your computer system from hacker attacks and other security threats. The program's Configuration Assistant, complete with "wizard style" interface, allows users to set up the appropriate level of protection with minimal hassle. Ashampoo has an impressive number of features and monitors both incoming and outgoing traffic. Local and network activity can also be monitored. Size 3.8 MB.

  • Spyware Blaster hot

    Are you wary about spyware? You needn't be if you install SpywareBlaster. Unlike similar programs that scan, detect and then clean your computer of any programs attempting to monitor your actions, SpywareBlaster takes a different route and prevents them from being installed in the first place. Nobody has to put up with spyware thanks to this clever little program.

  • Cookie Monster

    Follow the "Utilities" link at this site then scroll down to access the Cookie Monster information section. This program is a neat freeware utility, created so that you may have full control over cookies left on your computer. It allows you to scrutinise all cookies on your machine then delete the ones you don't want and save the ones you wish to keep (e.g. log-in details).

  • Microsoft Security Essentials

    This group of free programs developed by Microsoft provides a range of countermeasures to help protect you from spyware and similar security threats. Microsoft Security Essentials is a joy to use and enables you to both monitor and protect vulnerable system areas. The program can detect spyware before it causes any harm or eliminate rogue files once they become installed on your computer.

  • Scrub XP

    ScrubXP runs automatically when you start up your computer and offers a number of features, ideal for keeping your computer private. When activated, the program will delete all Internet Explorer History entries and temporary files, cookies and documents listed in the Windows "Start" menu. The Recycle Bin is also emptied and auto-complete on IE is refreshed. Follow the "Scrub XP" link (left hand nav bar).

  • CookieCruncher

    This is one of the best known cookie-killer programs on the Internet. The idea behind this piece of kit is to stop the activity of cookies on your machine. After browsing, all cookies collected can be deleted instantly, meaning any site looking for the information it cached earlier won't find it. Note: Cookie Cruncher is always being updated and now is very easy to upgrade.

  • Handybits File Shredder

    This cool program works in a similar way to a virtual shredding machine, permanently deleting your "sensitive" files so that they can never be retrieved. To use the program, you simply drag amd drop documents, etc. into a window, which in turn prompts you to confirm the deletion. If you accept to delete the document, it will be deleted, never to be read again.

  • HushMail

    Provides an online e-mail service with extra security features. You can send e-mail to any person with an address but to take advantage of their high 1024 bit encryption, your recipient must also have a HushMail account. After the recent hiccup with "Hotmail hackers", you should seriously consider this if handling important e-mail. HushMail is robust, solid and reliable.

  • Eraser

    A fine privacy and security tool for Windows based systems. Using a drag and drop facility, Eraser permanently deletes files so they cannot be recovered, even by the most advanced software. It's ideal for covering your tracks or for removing sensitive information from your PC. No uninstall utility (free or commercial) can bring back the files once you have deleted them with Eraser.