Big tech alternatives

Thinking about stepping away from Big Tech but not sure where to turn? You’re not alone. More and more people are questioning how their data is used — and tired of being tracked, targeted, and profiled for profit. Some are choosing European services protected by GDPR, while others turn to open source tools that put transparency first. We’ve put together a list of solid alternatives for everything from email to maps.

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Choose Your Perfect Email Domain Name with Runbox

With Runbox, you can choose from a wide range of domain names to craft an email address that’s uniquely yours. Whether for personal or professional use, select a domain that complements your name, reflects your brand, highlights your location, or showcases your personality. Make a lasting impression with an email that truly stands out.

Already have a Runbox email account? You can use any of these domain names synonymously with your current email address, with messages automatically delivered to your existing inbox — no extra setup required. If you already own a domain, you can use it to create a new Runbox account or link it to an existing one.

Below, you’ll find a guide to the available domains.

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From Gadgets to Garbage: The Global E-Waste Crisis

We all depend on our devices – for work, for school, for staying connected with friends and family, and keeping up with daily life. When the latest model of phones, laptops, tablets and other gadgets become available, we are often tempted to upgrade, even if our current device works just fine. Big companies rely on this constant cycle of consumer desire for the next best thing to drive their massive profits. But with that comes the increasing problem of electronic waste, or e-waste. When we upgrade to the latest model, what happens to the old one?

The answer is that discarded electronics end up in landfills or are shipped off to developing countries, often in spite of going through proper recycling channels. The burden of managing the environmental consequences of this waste disproportionately falls on poorer countries. Below, we discuss the devastating impacts of e-waste and the environmental crisis it has caused, and the efforts to mitigate the harmful effects.

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How to Stay Safe and Private Online

Privacy concerns in the online world aren’t new. We already know that big tech collects our personal data through “free” services, that data brokers profit off that data, that AI is scraping our social media for added profiling, and that governments utilize various surveillance technologies. But with the rapidly changing global landscape of threats to freedom of expression and personal liberties, there is a new level of concern for the need for privacy. Here, we point to some recent developments that may have an impact on privacy protections and personal data. Below you will also find a list of safe and private alternative services.

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Decentralized Email for Maximum Privacy and Security

At Runbox, we believe that email should be sustainable, secure, and private. In a world where many major email providers are part of sprawling ecosystems that track your every move and monetize your personal data, we’ve taken a different approach. We provide a service that focuses solely on one thing: your email. No distractions, no ads, and absolutely no data mining. Just email.

As an independent email provider based in Norway, we are proud to offer a service that places your privacy and security first. With over two decades of experience, we’ve built Runbox with a simple mission in mind: to provide a reliable, privacy-respecting email service that empowers you to communicate freely and securely. You know where your data is stored (and it’s not floating around in the cloud).

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The State of the Internet – Misinformation and the Role of Fact Checking

The internet has transformed how we communicate, access information, and connect with each other, but it’s also brought new challenges, particularly when it comes to distinguishing fact from fiction. As misinformation and disinformation spread rapidly across social media and other online outlets, telling truth from fiction is becoming increasingly difficult. And while fact-checking is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of information, some will argue that fact-checking and content moderation is nothing but censorship and a threat to free speech. This raises important questions about the role of online platforms in fact-checking and moderating content, and what responsibility they have to their users. In this article, we’ll explore where fact-checking stands today, how platforms are handling content moderation, and the impact these changes are having.

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The Power of Big Tech

The influence of big tech companies on our lives is undeniable. With limited oversight and a focus on maximizing profits, these corporations have become increasingly powerful. They rely on unrestricted access to our personal data to maximize profits, which puts them at odds with any form of regulation. They actively seek to shape policies that protect their lucrative revenue streams, and resist regulatory measures that could limit their power.

Without accountability, big tech companies put profits ahead of our privacy. They leave us vulnerable to misinformation and bias, and contribute to the shaping and manipulation of public opinion. As the digital world continues to develop, we’re likely to see more attempts to deregulate to protect their bottom lines.

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The Runbox Difference: Real People, Real Support

At Runbox, we pride ourselves on offering personalized support. We are employee owned, which means our team is truly invested in your success. We know how crucial your inbox is, and we believe that fast, effective support can make all the difference in your email experience. When you reach out, you’re communicating with real people, not chatbots or someone with a script. Our support team are co-owners of the company, and know the service inside and out. We genuinely care about helping you. Unlike big companies, where support can feel impersonal, we provide expert assistance tailored to your needs. Whether you’re facing a technical issue or need advice, we’re here to make sure your email works the way you want.

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Your Data, Your Rights: A Guide to GDPR

Introduced by the European Union (EU) in May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a landmark piece of legislation that empowers individuals with unprecedented control over their personal information. This law has set a new global standard for data privacy, ensuring that companies are transparent about how they collect, use, and share your data. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects of GDPR and explain why it’s important for Runbox and our customers.

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Is Your Email Safe? Why Storing Data in the U.S. is Becoming Riskier

In today’s digital world, protecting our personal data has never been more crucial. With governments, corporations, and hackers all vying for access to our information, it’s important to understand where our data is being stored and who has access to it. Certain countries, such as the United States, have become a concerning destination for data, with its extensive surveillance infrastructure and lack of robust privacy protections.

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