Notes 
Software that news websites install to offer whistleblowers a plattform for secure communication and file transfers. Requires Tor Browser for anonymity in order to access. List of organizations using SecureDrop.
Reviewed by Marcus Holmberg
SecureDrop
securedrop.org 4 ratings so far*
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Threat level
Targeted
A targeted-tier tool. Built for a real, capable adversary. Overkill for everyone below. Threat levels
Our take
The serious, audited standard for newsrooms accepting documents from sources, and its reliance on Tor is a deliberate part of the threat model, not a hurdle to remove. The honest reality is that it is heavy to deploy and run properly, aimed at organizations with real security needs rather than individuals. If you are a publisher who needs to protect sources, this is the reference tool; if you just want secure file transfer, it is far more than you need.
GitHub at a glance
freedomofpress/securedrop flask-applicationhacktoberfestjournalismpythonsecuredropwhistleblowing
Stars
3,892
+2 this week
Forks
727
134 watching
Last commit
today
healthy
Latest release
2.16.2
5d ago, 71 total
Star history
Issues
86% closed
460
open
2,941
closed
+11 / -3
opened / closed, last 4 weeks
Opened vs closed, last 12 weeks
Commits, last 26 weeks
224 commits, active 25 of 26 weeks
196 contributors since Jan 2012
Languages
- Python 78.5%
- Shell 5.9%
- CSS 5.2%
- Other 10.4%
Updated daily from the GitHub API. Star tracking since Jun 10, 2026.
Website at a glance
securedrop.org
A+ score 115
Strong website security headers
Graded by Mozilla HTTP Observatory, tested 1d ago
Inspect this site yourself
Measures the security configuration of the tool's own website, not the privacy of the product itself. A strong tool can still score low here.
SecureDrop alternatives
EFF Electronic Frontier Foundation offers tips, tools and how-tos for safer online communications.
GlobaLeaks Alternative to SecureDrop. Easily set up a secure and anonymous whistleblowing initiative. Designed to be user-friendly, the software is customisable and protects the…
Briar Briar doesn't rely on a central server: messages are synchronized directly between the users' devices via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Online sync via the Tor network is possible, too.…
OnionShare OnionShare is an open source tool that lets you securely and anonymously share files, host websites, and chat with friends using the Tor network. Share files, host websites,…
Haven An Android application that leverages on-device sensors to provide monitoring and protection of physical areas. Turns Android phones into a motion, sound, vibration and light…
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