Mobile Privacy

Android Privacy Tools

Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 App

1.1.1.1 by Cloudflare provides encrypted DNS on Android without root.

• Encrypts DNS queries (DNS-over-HTTPS or DNS-over-TLS)
• Optional WARP feature routes all traffic through Cloudflare’s network
• Free

Install from Google Play or F-Droid.

DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser

DuckDuckGo Browser for Android — built-in tracker blocking, automatic HTTPS upgrade, fire button to clear all tabs and data.

NextDNS

NextDNS — configurable DNS-based ad and tracker blocking. Set as Private DNS on Android:

Settings > Network > Private DNS > enter yourid.dns.nextdns.io

NetGuard — Firewall

NetGuard — no-root firewall for Android.

• Block internet access per-app
• Block background data for apps that don’t need internet
• Log all connections

F-Droid version includes additional features.

Shelter — Work Profile Isolation

Shelter uses Android’s Work Profile feature to isolate untrusted apps.

• Run Facebook, banking apps, etc. in isolated profile
• Main profile stays clean
• “Freeze” apps in work profile to prevent background activity

/e/ OS — Degoogled Android

/e/ OS is a fork of Android with all Google services removed.

• Uses microG for compatibility with some apps
• Built-in privacy-focused apps
• Available for many Fairphone, Samsung, and Pixel devices

iOS Privacy

iOS is generally more privacy-respecting than stock Android:

• App Tracking Transparency (ATT) — apps must ask permission to track
• Private Relay (iCloud+) — hides IP from websites and Apple
• Mail Privacy Protection — blocks tracking pixels in email

iOS Recommendations

• Browser: Safari with Intelligent Tracking Prevention, or Firefox Focus
• DNS: Settings > Wi-Fi > [network] > Configure DNS > Manual > add 1.1.1.1
• VPN: Any reputable VPN app (Mullvad, ProtonVPN)
• Audit app permissions regularly: Settings > Privacy & Security