DuckDuckGo has introduced a Privacy Pro plan encompassing three key services. For $10 per month or $100 per year, users gain access to a VPN, personal information removal, and identity theft restoration services.
Initially, the subscription is exclusively available in the US, with the Privacy Pro features seamlessly integrated into the DuckDuckGo browser.
Emphasizing user privacy, DuckDuckGo asserts that it will not retain VPN logs, ensuring anonymity. Consequently, the company claims it lacks the capability to associate user activity while connected to the DuckDuckGo VPN with individual identities or any other browsing activity conducted on DuckDuckGo.
Utilizing the open-source WireGuard protocol, DuckDuckGo encrypts user traffic and directs it through VPN servers located across the US, Europe, and Canada, with plans for expansion.
Each subscription covers up to five desktop and mobile devices, utilizing a random ID system for user identification instead of traditional accounts.
DuckDuckGo’s commitment to privacy extends to its personal information removal tool, eliminating sensitive details from people’s search sites and data broker services.
Notably, user-provided details remain on their devices, and removal requests are initiated directly from the desktop, with ongoing monitoring to prevent the reoccurrence of personal data exposure.
The identity theft restoration service facilitated through DuckDuckGo’s partnership with Iris, offers comprehensive support in case of identity theft, including assistance with account restoration, financial recovery, and documentation replacement.
Iris also provides emergency cash advances for users stranded due to identity theft, all without requiring upfront provision of personal information.
This expansion of privacy services aligns with DuckDuckGo’s commitment to user privacy and represents a strategic move to enhance its offerings. The Privacy Pro plan offers competitive pricing compared to similar services, such as Mozilla’s personal information removal service, which costs $9 per month.
