Expert Roundup of 25 Cyber Security Experts

In today’s digital age, online privacy and safety protection have become more important than ever before. From hackers to government surveillance, online privacy has become a major concern for everyone who uses the internet.

With an increasing number of cyber threats and cybercrime rates skyrocketing, it is essential to take more measures to ensure your online security.

To help us better understand the tools available to protect our privacy, we reached out to experts in the fields of cybersecurity, privacy, and technology to share their expertise.

We asked them the following question: What are the top three best tools you use and recommend for online privacy and security?

What are the top three best tools you use for online privacy and security?

In this expert roundup, each expert gives his or her top three recommended tools and explains the reasons why they find them so effective.

1. Cybersecurity SIEM that runs 24/7 threat detection or monitoring so that we receive alerts when there are underlying risks.

With that we have the opportunity to start to investigate early on, and determine whether there is a real threat or simply noise, allowing us more time to handle potential risk and mitigate should there be any malicious attempts to breach into our system to steal or destroy our data.

2. A user education platform that focuses on delivering gamified trainings and regular phish testing to train our employees so that they are exposed to the latest attack trend, and stay vigilant instead of lax all year round.

We find that this is the most cost-effective solution. We are a strong believer in building a human firewall. The tool we use definitely helps.

3. Compliance automation tool

We leverage this tool to fast track and simplify the process of achieving and now more relevant is sustaining compliance.

Compliance is helpful in a way that it gives us guidelines and structure, we understand the basics of protecting important data, and can implement relevant and needed controls.

It also gives our clients and us an assurance that we are doing things that are internationally recognized as vital to protect data.

The following are the three most essential tools that I use to protect my privacy and safety while I’m online:

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

I use Virtual Private Networks to encrypt my connection to the internet and keep my data private as I surf the web anonymously. It is impossible to be tracked while you’re online, when you hide your IP address and encrypt your data.

2. Password Manager

A program that keeps all login information encrypted and helps easily create and maintain complicated passwords. I use a password manager to create strong, complicated passwords for all of my online accounts, which helps reduce the likelihood of being compromised.

3. Ad blocker

A browser plugin that prevents online adverts from being shown on websites, safeguards my privacy, and stops malicious software from being downloaded into my computer through commercials. My browsing is also made much quicker since it prevents advertisements from being downloaded.

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is a tool that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, making it difficult for anyone to monitor your online activity.

VPNs can be used to bypass geo-restrictions, access blocked websites, and prevent hackers from stealing your personal information. Some popular VPNs include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost.

2. Password manager

A password manager is a tool that generates and stores unique and complex passwords for all your accounts. This eliminates the need to remember multiple passwords, which human brains simply cannot do. It reduces the risk of your accounts being hacked due to weak passwords. One that I like is BitWarden.

3. Email Aliases

When your email address is involved in a data breach, hackers can use your email address to impersonate you or to attempt to gain access to your accounts.

By using email aliases, you can limit the potential damage that could result from a data breach. If an alias is compromised, it will not affect your main email address and any accounts associated with it.

Email aliases can also be used to create separate email addresses for different purposes. For example, you could create an alias specifically for online shopping or signing up for newsletters. With Thexyz, email addresses are free and unlimited.

1. Network Support

Network support helps businesses maintain and secure their computer networks. This includes both local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).

Network support ensures that computer systems can communicate with each other properly and that the network is protected from cyber threats.

2. VoIP (Voice Over IP)

VoIP is a type of phone service that allows people to make phone calls over the internet instead of using traditional phone lines.

VoIP services often offer additional features such as video conferencing, call recording, and voicemail transcription.

3. Managed IT Infrastructure

Managed IT infrastructure is a service that helps businesses manage and maintain their technology systems. This includes things like servers, databases, and cloud services.

Managed IT infrastructure services can help reduce downtime and ensure that systems are up-to-date and running smoothly.

As a cyber security expert, I highly recommend using the following tools to protect your privacy and safety online:

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, making it much harder for anyone to track your online activity. There are plenty of VPN services out there, but make sure to choose a reputable provider that has a no-logging policy.

2. Password Manager

Using a strong, unique password for each online account is crucial for maintaining your privacy and safety online.

However, it can be difficult to remember all those passwords. That’s where a password manager comes in handy. It will securely store all your passwords in one place, so you don’t have to worry about remembering them all.

3. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring you to provide an additional piece of information (usually a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password. This makes it much harder for anyone to gain access to your account, even if they have your password.

Overall, using these tools can go a long way in protecting your privacy and safety online. Just remember always to stay vigilant and be cautious when sharing personal information online.

1. Online Identity Generators

Having multiple aliases is one of the best ways to protect your online privacy. By creating different usernames and email addresses for different online accounts, you can minimize the amount of personal information you share online.

Personally, I dilute my aliases with false information; that way, even if it gets tracked back – the information will not be damaging or useful.

2. Anonymous credit cards

Tools like privacy.com allow you to create virtual debit cards that are linked to your bank account. I use these virtual cards to make online purchases without sharing your real credit card information. This minimizes the risk of my financial data being stolen.

3. VPNs

I use VPNs that can help protect your online privacy and security. From swapping IP addresses to bypass geolocks. By using a VPN, you can connect to a different server location and appear as if you are located in a different country. It is technically specific though.

My one tip from experience is just not to acquire anything too valuable and flaunt it. Especially high-value 1-word usernames, they bring incredible growth from exact match searches – however, the amount of hack/social engine.

The best tools for protecting your privacy and security online are password managers, multi-factor authentication, and secure communication.

1. Password managers are great because they allow you to store and keep track of your login information.

With apps and browser extensions, they can automatically enter your login information on websites you use. They can also generate new passwords that are complex and unique, but you never have to worry about forgetting them.

They can manage your alias information by helping you remember what email address you used where.

A password manager will protect you by helping you create and manage unique logins and passwords for every site. If one site has a breach and leaks your password or login, you won’t need to worry since they are unique.

We recommend Bitwarden for a cloud-based password manager and KeePassXC for an offline password manager. These are what the security experts use and recommend.

2. Multi-factor authentication protects your accounts from being accessed by people who happen to have your password, but do not have access to your multi-factor method.

The weakest multi-factor method is SMS. This is better than nothing but has its vulnerabilities. We suggest our clients use an authenticator app like Authy or a hardware authentication device like YubiKey. These are very secure and are what the security experts use and recommend.

3. Secure communication means communication between you and another party that no one else can access. Google can read all of your emails and would hand them over if required by law.

Your mobile provider (Verizon or whoever) has access to your calls and texts and can share them too. Zoom, WhatsApp, Messenger, iMessage, and many other communication apps have access to what you send over their platforms.

You instead need zero-knowledge providers. They do not know what you send. For email we recommend Proton and for chat/voice/video we recommend Signal.

I use many privacy and security tools so it’s hard for me to pick. But I would say my top 3 (specifically for my Windows and Linux computers) are:

1. Modified-for-privacy Firefox (a relevant alternative to doing all the tweaks required to make Firefox more private is the fork, Librewolf).

2. uBlock Origin: open-source wide-spectrum tracker blocker.

3. Safing Portmaster: Portmaster is an open-source application firewall that can block incoming and outgoing connections on the machine – it can also perform adblocking, tracker blocking, and telemetry/”phoning home” control for the entire system.

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, making it difficult for anyone to intercept and read your online activity. This is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks or accessing geo-restricted content.

2. Password Manager

A password manager securely stores all of your passwords and generates strong passwords for you. This way, you don’t have to remember multiple passwords or use the same weak password across different sites, which can put your online accounts at risk.

3. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring you to enter a unique code or use a physical device in addition to your password. This makes it much harder for someone to gain unauthorized access to your accounts, even if they have your password.

Online breaches have become more common even in high-profile companies at this time in 2024. So it’s important for any person or company to protect their online information as much as possible. These are our recommendations for protecting yourself and your information online:

1. Get a VPN as it encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a remote server, hiding your IP address and making it difficult for anyone to track your online activities. This is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi or accessing sensitive information.

2. Install Anti-virus and Anti-malware software on your PC and other mobile devices as this can help protect you from malicious software that can steal your personal information or harm your device.

3. Set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) as an additional layer of security that requires a second form of identification, such as a text message or authentication app, to log into your accounts. This is extremely helpful to avoid financial loss, especially with mobile banking.

My three favourite tools would be:

1. A good password manager like 1Password or Bitwarden, to make it easy to have a different password on every site, app, and service I use.

2. A Yubikey hardware security key to keep sensitive accounts like Google and Facebook safe

3. An up-to-date operating system and browser on my computer and mobile devices – the cost to an attacker of breaking into a device that’s fully caught up with security patches is far, far higher than one where you’ve been clicking “remind me later” for a month.

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN) – Private Internet Access (PIA) and VyprVPN

Using a reliable VPN service like Private Internet Access (PIA) or VyprVPN is crucial for online privacy. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, hides your IP address, and protects your data from being intercepted by hackers or monitored by ISPs.

I prefer PIA for its low cost, fast connection speeds, and strict no-logs policy, while VyprVPN stands out with its proprietary Chameleon protocol, which helps bypass internet censorship in restrictive countries. Both VPNs ensure that your online activities are private and secure.

2. Password Manager – 1Password

Proper password management is vital for online safety.

1Password is a password manager that generates and securely stores complex passwords for all your online accounts. It also syncs across multiple devices and offers two-factor authentication for added security.

I recommend 1Password because it simplifies password management while maintaining high-security standards, making it an essential tool for individuals.

3. Encrypted Messaging App – Signal

For secure communication, Signal is my go-to encrypted messaging app. It uses end-to-end encryption to ensure that only the intended recipients can read the messages, and it supports text, voice, and video calls.

Signal is an open-source project, which means its code is publicly available and has been audited by independent security experts.

This level of transparency, along with its strong encryption, makes Signal an excellent choice for maintaining privacy in online communications.

4. Use 2FA/MFA and TOTP Over SMS Whenever Possible

An additional tip for enhancing online security is to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password.

Whenever possible, opt for Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) authentication over SMS, as it is less susceptible to interception and provides a more secure method of verification.

Private Internet Access (PIA), VyprVPN, 1Password, Signal, and the use of 2FA/MFA with TOTP are the most effective tools and tips for safeguarding your privacy and safety online as an individual.

They offer robust encryption, secure communication, and user-friendly interfaces, making them essential tools for anyone looking to protect their digital footprint.

Protecting your privacy online may seem like an impossible task, but taking a few basic precautions can make it easier. Here are some things you should consider.

1. Have a separate email address and cell phone number which you limit for use for accounts where you need to provide this information. Email addresses and cell phone numbers that you use generally can provide information that can be readily leveraged by an identity thief so it is good to have throw-aways.

2. Strong unique, passwords reinforced by dual-factor authentication is also imperative. A password manager is also a good option.

3. Tighten the security settings of all of your online accounts and limit the amount of information you do post online.

4. Block search engines from gathering your personal data or even better would be to use Duck Duck Go which does not collect your personal information.

5. Use a VPN for your online searches, browsing, and email.

The top three best tools for protecting your privacy and safety online are:

1. Password Manager

Most individuals are careless with the form of passwords they choose for their vital online accounts. I make sure to use a difficult-to-guess password that checks all the boxes making it challenging for a hacker to identify.

However, remembering all these passwords is not easy and a password manager helps me store, manage, and protect all my passwords.

2. VPN

In case you want to browse critical websites or accounts on non-private internet lines, you should install a VPN on your mobile phone or laptop. A Virtual Private Network is when via encryption, you can create a secure private network over the internet.

As we reside in a world where all eyes seem to be on us at all times through security cameras, or surveillance devices. A VPN will stop internet surveillance as it encrypts all information that passes through a private network.

3. DNS

The Domain Name System converts domain names into IP addresses that allow browsers to get to the website and other resources.

Even though, DNS spoofing is a situation we all should be aware of as hackers can deceive it into trusting that it is directing the browser to another IP address, rather than the original one.

Therefore it is crucial to opt for a private DNS that will have augmented security in comparison to the other DNS options.

I would recommend the following top three tools for protecting your privacy and safety online:

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, making it more difficult for hackers to intercept your online activity. It also hides your IP address, making it harder for websites to track your location and online behavior.

2. Password Manager

A password manager is a software application that helps you generate and store strong passwords for all your online accounts. It can also automatically fill in your login credentials, saving you time and reducing the risk of password reuse or weak passwords.

3. Antivirus Software

Antivirus software helps protect your computer or mobile device from malware and other cyber threats. It scans your system for viruses, spyware, and other malicious software and alerts you if it detects any threats.

I like these tools because they are easy to use, affordable, and provide an added layer of security to my online activity.

VPNs, password managers, and antivirus software are essential tools for protecting your privacy and safety online, and I highly recommend them to anyone who uses the internet regularly.

1. Tor – is a highly sophisticated and remarkably effective tool represents a pinnacle of privacy protection in the realm of internet connectivity.

By means of routing traffic through a global network of encrypted servers, it enables users to browse the web in complete anonymity, thus safeguarding their online freedom and security.

Furthermore, it serves as a vital means of circumventing the censorship and obstructions that some governments and ISPs impose on internet access.

No wonder Tor has become the preferred choice of journalists, activists, whistleblowers, and anyone else who cherishes their right to unfettered and secure access to the digital realm.

2. KeePass – is a veritable panacea for identity management issues. As a free and open-source password manager, it facilitates the creation and storage of strong and complex passwords for a multitude of accounts and services.

Employing a robust encryption mechanism, it ensures that the passwords remain secure and inaccessible to anyone but the user.

But that’s not all KeePass also boasts an array of nifty features such as auto-type, password generator, and plugins, that contribute to its versatility and usability.

3. Metasploit – is an indispensable tool for carrying out comprehensive and thorough penetration testing.

It empowers professionals to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in a wide variety of systems and networks thus enabling them to develop and implement robust defense strategies.

From web-based applications to servers and networks, Metasploit offers unparalleled versatility and flexibility, allowing users to simulate real-world attacks and assess the risk level of their systems.

When it comes to protecting online privacy and safety, here are my top three recommendations:

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, making it difficult for anyone to intercept your data. It’s an essential tool for protecting your online privacy and security.

2. Password Manager

Password managers generate and store unique passwords for each of your online accounts, ensuring that each account has a strong and unique password.

This eliminates the risk of password reuse and makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to your accounts.

3. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA provides an additional layer of security beyond just a password. It requires users to provide a second form of identification, such as a fingerprint or a code sent to their phone, before accessing an account.

This makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to your accounts, even if they have your password.

Overall, these three tools work together to provide a comprehensive approach to online security. At TechAhead, we work with cybersecurity experts who can implement these tools to keep our clients’ data secure.

When it comes to protecting privacy and safety online, VPN tops the list.

A VPN is a tool that encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a server located in another country, making it more difficult for hackers, governments, or other third parties to monitor your online activity.

VPNs can be used to protect your personal information, mask your location, and access geo-restricted content.

It is important to note that while these tools can be effective but it is equally important to practice safe browsing habits and be mindful of the information that is shared online.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is among the best tools for achieving this.

Your device and the internet are connected securely and encrypted by a VPN, guaranteeing the privacy of your online transactions and safeguarding them from hackers and other nefarious parties.

You can use a VPN to access the internet without being concerned about your data being hacked or intercepted. Your IP address and location can also be hidden, adding an extra layer of security and privacy.

Additionally, a VPN can help you get around geo-restrictions and censorship to access content that might be restricted in your area.

In general, a VPN is a necessary tool for anyone who wants to remain safe and secure online.

Even with remote work, network boundaries are still important, and a firewall with diagnostic tools and the ability to sniff traffic is just a must.

These are invaluable for debugging remote access problems, finding infected systems, and general troubleshooting. If you need a tech tool, this is number one. But it’s only part of a bigger puzzle.

There will never be any technology substitute for old-fashioned human judgment. Of course, I use a spam filter – it catches most but not all phishing probes. But I catch the ones the automated spam filters miss. And I’m careful about which websites I visit.

Antivirus software is always useful. But even the best antivirus packages only catch known signatures.

However, antivirus companies lead the world in finding and decoding the latest attacks. So, support them by using their products. I like Sophos. But others are also good.

If someone is looking for the highest levels of privacy, I recommend using a Qubes OS computer that runs through Tor.

Qubes OS runs every application or window in a separate virtual machine, meaning you could have two separate Firefox instances running on two separate virtual machines.

So I can have one running my online banking and one connected to a social media account and neither would be “related” to each other even if they were fingerprinted.

All of your browser traffic is completely private and separate from each operating system and is not tied together.

The best tools to protect privacy when you’re online are password managers, VPNs, and MFA.

Password managers will create unique, extremely difficult-to-decrypt passwords that hackers won’t be able to guess.

VPNs allow you to privately transfer data through a wifi network, and MFA is crucial for setting up a defense-in-depth approach to your security.

MFA will help protect your privacy if the other two systems fail.

Without at least two of those tools in place, you’re about 3 minutes from a hacker getting into your accounts, changing your passwords, and locking you out. They act fast and are ruthless.

Wrap up

We hope this expert roundup has provided you with a more in-depth perspective into the world of cybersecurity.

By implementing the recommendations provided by the cybersecurity experts in this article, you can take proactive measures to ensure your online privacy and safety protection.

From VPNs to encrypted messaging apps, cloud storage, antivirus, and password managers you now know what are the best tools and apps available to keep you safe online.

Thank you to all the experts that have contributed to this expert roundup! Remember, the first step to protecting your online privacy is to educate yourself, so stay informed and stay safe.

You should also check out our roundup of AI tools experts.