Member Avatar for [csharp]

Hi,

I decided to close all gmail and similar accounts because of the privacy policy, and similar. Now looking for a service that will be replaced. I found runbox and lavabit, but what do you think about them, can you recommend any service that you use?

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This thread is about finding a more private email option. @csharp started the question; correctly pointed out that absolute control means taking on server administration; highlighted the convenience vs privacy trade-off many people face. The practical next step is to match a provider (or self-host) to a realistic threat model, then test migration and deliverability before cutting over.

Consider this quick evaluation checklist before you sign up or self-host:

  • Threat model: who are you protecting against (service provider, casual snooping, targeted subpoena)?
  • Encryption: does the provider offer end-to-end encryption or only server-side at-rest encryption?
  • Key control: are encryption keys user-controlled (PGP) or provider-managed?
  • Metadata: will headers/subjects remain visible to the provider?
  • Jurisdiction & transparency: can the provider be compelled by local law, and do they publish transparency info or audits?
  • Business model: subscription vs ad/supported services affects incentives to scan mail.
  • Compatibility: IMAP/POP, mobile apps, export/import tools and data portability.
  • Deliverability features: SPF/DKIM/DMARC support and clear guidance for DNS changes.

If choosing to self-host (as suggested), be aware of the operational tasks: keep the OS and MTA updated, obtain and renew TLS certs, configure SPF/DKIM/DMARC, manage spam filtering, maintain backups, and monitor IP reputation and reverse DNS so other mail servers accept your mail. Self-hosting gives control but adds ongoing maintenance and deliverability headaches.

Migration basics: pick the provider first, export mail via IMAP (or use a migration tool), import to the new account, set low MX TTL and update DNS/SPF/DKIM/DMARC, and keep the old account active for a transition period. For comparative guidance and a current list of privacy-focused providers see PrivacyTools - Email Providers. For vendor security claims, review each provider’s security page (for example, ProtonMail or Tutanota) rather than relying on marketing summaries.

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Member Avatar for Dani

May I ask what you don't like about Gmail when it comes to privacy? Is it the way that AdWords uses contextual advertising to crawl your email, or is it just the fact that your email is in the hands of a third party?

If it's the latter, the only thing you're going to be happy with is a dedicated server or semi-dedicated server where you are the only one with the root password.

Member Avatar for reganstar

I used to have a dedicated local server for my website hence I runned my email on it too. But for some time now I do use Gmail for business correspondence and so far so good, haven't identified any breaches in security (except for the content crawling and AdWords, but I tend to neglect it ;) ).

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