Arch Linux
Summary
Arch Linux is a simple Linux distribution composed of free and open-source software. The operating system can be downloaded from Arch's website.
Breach History
Has there ever been a breach or data leak?
No known hacks or data breaches!
🎉
Privacy Checklist
Is any kind of biometric data collected (health, heart, voice, etc.)?
Are you able to delete your data / the data collected about you?
Does it use cookies, telemetry, or third-party tracking scripts?
Is the privacy policy user-friendly (easy to understand)?
Does it have parental controls?
Does it use encryption to protect your data both in-transit and at-rest?
Does it get regular software and / or firmware updates?
Does it require you to create a strong password?
Is there a system in place for managing security vulnerabilities?
Does it have a privacy policy?
How Can It Snoop?
Does it have a camera or request / require access to a camera?
Does it have a microphone or request / require access to a microphone?
Does it track your location or request / require access to location data?
Account Requirements
Does it require an email address to use?
Does it require a phone number to use?
Does it require an address (home or office) to use?
Payment Options
Are you able to use a credit card as a payment option?
Are you able to use a cryptocurrency as a payment option?
Are you able to use PayPal as a payment option?
Are you able to use cash or gift cards as a payment option?
What Could Go Wrong?
Arch's online services automatically capture IP addresses in order to diagnose problems on their website server and to ensure the security of interactions with their servers. However, if you do not want Arch having access to this information or your cookies, you can easily use a VPN and reject cookies in your browser. There is virtually no risk in using Arch Linux otherwise.
How Does It Share Your Data?
Arch Linux will never share your personal data with third parties except for with your consent or if required by law or for statistical research activities.
Good Things
- Great performance.
- Total customization possible. It does not come with a desktop environment by default.
Bad Things
- Can be complex and not user-friendly for less experienced users.
- Installation is difficult.
Final Thoughts
It does not appear Arch Linux has ever suffered from any major data breaches. However, considering Arch Linux barely collects information from its users, there would not be any information to share even if they were hacked. The Arch Linux operating system is very secure as well, and is a great choice for those looking for a more private operating system.