Why I DON'T Use Privacy Cloaking Apps (like MySudo)

About this video

• Video Title: Why I DON'T Use Privacy Cloaking Apps (like MySudo)
• Channel: All Things Secured
• Speakers: Josh
• Duration: 00:10:16

Overview

This video explores "pseudonym management services" (PMS) which are apps designed to help users create and manage alternate identities, including virtual phone numbers, email aliases, and payment methods. The speaker discusses specific services like MySudo, Cloaked, and Iron Vest, comparing their features, payment options, and overall value. Ultimately, the speaker questions the necessity of these all-in-one solutions and shares their preference for using separate, specialized privacy tools.

Key takeaways

• Pseudonym Management Services (PMS): These services allow users to create and manage alternate identities (pseudonyms) for online activities, separating them from their real identity. This involves using virtual phone numbers, email aliases, and virtual credit cards.
• Comparison of Services:
  • MySudo: Offers virtual cards (limited), US/Canada/UK phone numbers (limited), and a limited number of email aliases. It also includes private browsers and encrypted communication. The speaker experienced an account lock due to using it outside the US.
  • Cloaked: Offers unlimited virtual cards (currently in beta), unlimited phone numbers with unique features like contact locking, and unlimited email aliases. It also includes a data removal service and a VPN.
  • Iron Vest: Offers a pay feature (currently not fully functional), a limited number of phone numbers (requires linking to real number), and unlimited email aliases. It also integrates biometrics for security.
• Payment Methods: MySudo is currently the only publicly available option with a virtual card feature, though Cloaked offers unlimited virtual cards in beta. Iron Vest's feature is not yet fully functional. All require Know Your Customer (KYC) verification.
• Virtual Phone Numbers: Cloaked stands out with unlimited phone numbers and advanced features. MySudo offers numbers for US, Canada, and UK, with limits. Iron Vest offers only one number and requires linking to a real phone number.
• Email Aliases: Iron Vest and Cloaked offer unlimited aliases, while MySudo limits the number.
• Necessity and Personal Preference: The speaker generally prefers a "separation of privacy powers," using specialized tools for specific tasks (e.g., Proton Pass for password management and email aliases, Hushed for phone numbers, Privacy.com for virtual cards) rather than an all-in-one solution. They find that PMS apps often try to do too much, competing with existing tools like password managers.
• MySudo Account Lock: The speaker's MySudo account was locked for using the app outside the US, which they find problematic for a privacy tool.