In the modern digital space, the security of software products acquires exceptional strategic significance, especially during military conflicts. Experts from the Ukrainian defense department conducted a thorough investigation of applications that can compromise users' personal information.
Browsers are the first critical point in the analysis. Opera and Yandex Browser, developed with Russian and Chinese participation, are identified as potentially dangerous platforms. As alternatives, specialists recommend Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Mozilla Firefox – products with guaranteed digital protection.
Communication channels also fall under strict screening. Electronic mail services such as Yandex Mail and Mail.ru are identified as risky due to direct access by Russian special services to correspondence. Experts direct attention to Gmail, Outlook, and ukr.net as secure communication platforms.
Social networks and messengers are the next object of attention. Telegram, owned by Russian entrepreneur Pavel Durov, along with VK, Odnoklassniki, and TikTok are considered potential channels for improper data collection. Alternatives such as WhatsApp, Signal, Facebook Messenger, and Twitter are recommended.
Navigation applications such as Yandex Maps, 2GIS, and MapsMe also raise serious concerns due to the possibility of providing geolocation information. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze are identified as more secure solutions.
Additional risk categories include screenshot programs, file managers, antivirus systems, and cloud services of Russian origin. Experts recommend using built-in system tools and internationally recognized alternatives.
The main message of the analysis is categorical: digital security is not a recommendation, but a mandatory condition for protecting personal data. Key recommendations include using licensed software, avoiding pirated products, and updating only through official channels.
The document, published by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, represents a comprehensive guide to safely navigating the digital space during geopolitical uncertainty.