DuckDuckGo Email Protection is a free forwarding service that removes multiple types of hidden email trackers while working with an existing email account. Users choose a personal @duck.com address; messages sent there are checked against DuckDuckGo’s tracker block list and forwarded to a regular inbox. The service can also generate unique private Duck Addresses, which users can deactivate individually if they receive unwanted mail or spam. DuckDuckGo browsers and extensions can recognize email fields and autofill either kind of address. Forwarded messages can arrive in services such as Gmail, Outlook, Apple Mail or Proton, but Email Protection does not include its own inbox. DuckDuckGo says it removes trackers and forwards mail without saving the messages or their headers on its systems. Replies use the Duck Address, but DuckDuckGo cannot guarantee that the text of a reply will not expose the forwarding address or other identifiers. The service is listed for Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, web and browser extensions.
Who it is for
It suits people who want to reduce hidden trackers in forwarded email while continuing to use their current inbox. It may also help users create distinct addresses for different sign-ups and deactivate them if unwanted mail arrives.
What is good
- Free forwarding works with an existing email account
- Removes multiple types of hidden email trackers
- Private Duck Addresses can be deactivated individually
- Browsers and extensions can autofill Duck Addresses
What to know first
- Does not provide a separate inbox
- Reply text may reveal forwarding address or other identifiers
Verdict
Email Protection adds tracker removal and disposable private addresses to an existing email setup. It forwards mail rather than replacing the user's inbox, and replies may still reveal identifying information.
DuckDuckGo Email Protection plans and pricing
All plansCompared on email alias services
- Free plan
- Yes
- Reply from alias
- Yes
- Send from alias
- Yes
- Browser extension
- Yes
- Mobile apps
- both
