Free tools are everywhere: word processing, design, project management, planning… We all use them at one time or another. And we understand why: there’s no need to take out your credit card to access them. But in a world where cyberattacks are on the rise and our digital lives are closely linked to our professional tools, a question arises: what are these free tools really worth? And above all… what do they take in exchange?
Appearances can be deceptive
There is always a reason why a tool is offered free of charge. For many platforms, free access is a lever for acquisition. The real model is often based on the collection and exploitation of data: name, email address, browsing history, location or purchasing preferences. This highly coveted data can then be used for marketing purposes or even sold to third parties.
The Canadian Center for Cybersecurity also emphasizes that it is essential to understand how free applications access sensitive information. Some may obtain extended permissions, such as access to the microphone, camera or geographic location. This must be clearly communicated.
Not all free tools are equal
However, generalizations should be avoided: not all free tools present the same risks. When a service is used within a well-supervised professional environment, such as a Microsoft 365 account, the data benefits from robust protection. All of this, even if the tool used is offered free of charge.
Issues arise especially when installing products intended for the general public, often positioned as “miracle” solutions. This is the case with certain free antivirus programs or performance cleaning software. These promise optimizations without any real gain, but they collect a significant amount of data.
In companies, it is always preferable to validate the relevance of a tool with an IT specialist or a managed service provider, in order to avoid missteps.
Browser extensions: small but formidable
Browser extensions are another blind spot in cyber security. Although they are useful for simple tasks such as translating a page or capturing a screen, they can also provide a direct gateway into a digital environment.
The problem is that it is extremely difficult to assess their level of security. Some malicious extensions operate in the background and can intercept passwords, spy on browsing or inject malicious content. As they operate within the browser itself, they escape the vigilance of traditional security software.
Caution is therefore advised: the fewer you install, the safer you are. It is essential to regularly uninstall those you no longer use and to limit yourself to those from verified sources.
Invisible losses… but very real
Installing a poorly designed or malicious free tool can have major consequences. You may unwittingly expose confidential documents, open a breach in your IT infrastructure, or send sensitive data to foreign servers, where it is not subject to any Québec or Canadian law.
Sometimes even uninstalling a tool is not enough to stop the collection of information. Active components may remain in the environment or retain access linked to a main account (such as Google or Facebook).
Reflexes to adopt
Before installing a free tool, it is recommended that you ask yourself a few key questions: is it developed by a recognized company? Where is the data hosted? Are the permissions requested necessary for it to function? And above all, is the privacy policy clear and compliant with Canadian laws, in particular Bill 25?
In practice, it is a good idea to use a separate email address to test the tools, to favor the services recommended by the IT team and to be cautious about solutions that promise results that are too good to be true. Regularly cleaning out unused applications and extensions is also a good reflex.
The freemium model: free, but not without limits
Many tools now operate on a freemium model. They offer a basic version that is accessible free of charge, and then offer advanced features for a fee. This is a perfectly legitimate model, as long as the relationship is transparent.
Where it becomes problematic is when the data created in the free version becomes inaccessible without a subscription. In addition to certain platforms that charge fees to export files. This progressive dependence can quickly create a feeling of digital lock-in or digital hostage-taking.
What is too often forgotten
Cybersecurity is not just about complex technologies. It is also about informed decisions in everyday life: choosing an application, granting permission or clicking on an attractive offer.
A free tool can be practical and safe… or become a serious vulnerability. It’s a question of context, supervision, training and vigilance.
💬 Thought of the day: “Free is often like an open door without a lock: anyone can enter… even those we haven’t invited.”
in your taskbar.