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Startpage

Startpage is a privacy-oriented metasearch engine that proxies anonymized results from Google while refraining from tracking users, logging IP addresses, storing search histories, or creating personal profiles.^[1] Operated by Startpage B.V., a company headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, it emphasizes data protection through proprietary anonymization technology and European-based servers.^[2] Originally launched as Ixquick in 1998 to aggregate results from multiple engines, the service shifted toward privacy emphasis following a 2005 liability audit and rebranded to Startpage in 2009, merging the Ixquick domain fully by 2016.^[3]^[4] This evolution positioned Startpage as an early pioneer in private search, offering features like Anonymous View for proxied access to websites without revealing user details.^[2] Its defining characteristic remains delivering high-quality, unprofiled Google-indexed results without the surveillance inherent in direct Google usage, appealing to users prioritizing anonymity over customized suggestions.^[1] In 2018–2019, Startpage received majority investment from System1, a U.S.-based publicly traded advertising technology firm, through a subsidiary; while the company maintains its no-tracking policies under Dutch privacy laws, the affiliation with an ad-tech entity has fueled skepticism regarding long-term incentives alignment with uncompromising privacy.^[5]^[6] Notable adoptions include serving as the default search provider for browsers like Vivaldi in select regions and Waterfox, underscoring its reputation for reliability in privacy-conscious ecosystems despite ownership debates.^[7]^[8] No verified data breaches or policy reversals have occurred, but the structure invites scrutiny of whether commercial pressures could erode foundational privacy commitments over time.^[6]

History

Founding as Ixquick and Early Operations

Ixquick was founded in 1998 by David Bodnick in the United States as a metasearch engine that aggregated results from multiple underlying search providers, including emerging engines like Google and Yahoo, to deliver comprehensive query outcomes without direct indexing of web content.^[9]^[10]^[11] In 2000, Ixquick was acquired by a Dutch company, shifting its operational base to the Netherlands and placing it under the leadership of figures like Robert E.G. Beens, who later emphasized privacy enhancements.^[9]^[12] Early operations focused on providing users with a neutral aggregation of search results, distinguishing the service through minimal data retention practices compared to peers that were increasingly profiling users for advertising.^[13]^[11] By the mid-2000s, Ixquick had established a reputation for user anonymity, conducting internal audits that revealed risks from data storage and prompting policies to limit logging of IP addresses and queries to essential periods only.^[12] This era saw the engine serving results globally, primarily through word-of-mouth adoption among privacy-conscious users, while maintaining a lean operation without reliance on personalized tracking.^[3]^[14]

Transition to Startpage and Merger

In 2009, the operators of Ixquick introduced Startpage as a complementary privacy-oriented search service that exclusively proxied results from Google's index, enabling users to access comprehensive web search data without direct exposure to Google's tracking mechanisms.^[14] This differed from Ixquick's established metasearch model, which aggregated results from up to ten independent engines including Yahoo, AllTheWeb, and HotBot to provide diversified, less biased outputs while also prioritizing user anonymity through non-logging policies certified by third-party auditors.^[14]^[9] Startpage's Google-centric approach aimed to deliver higher relevance and volume of results—leveraging Google's superior indexing—while routing queries through anonymous proxies to prevent IP address recording or search history storage.^[14] The launch reflected a strategic pivot toward exploiting dominant search infrastructure for privacy enhancement, as Ixquick's multi-engine synthesis had yielded more limited result sets despite its robustness against single-provider biases.^[15] The two services operated in parallel for several years under the same Dutch parent company, Surfboard Holding BV, sharing core privacy commitments such as 256-bit SSL encryption and no user profiling, but maintaining distinct technical architectures to serve varied user preferences for result diversity versus depth.^[9]^[14] Startpage gained traction particularly in English-speaking markets, where its simplified branding and Google-like familiarity appealed to users seeking a seamless alternative to mainstream engines, while Ixquick retained a foothold in Europe with its metasearch emphasis on independence from any one provider's algorithmic influence.^[16] On March 18, 2016, the company announced the merger of Ixquick into Startpage to consolidate development resources and prioritize enhancements to the Google-proxy model, which had demonstrated stronger user adoption and scalability.^[14] Effective March 26, 2016, Ixquick.com transitioned to delivering identical results sourced from Startpage's infrastructure, effectively phasing out the metasearch functionality in favor of unified Google-based outputs processed through privacy proxies.^[14]^[17] This integration did not alter core privacy safeguards, such as the absence of query logging or IP retention—features independently verified since Ixquick's inception—but allowed reallocation of engineering efforts toward features like expanded anonymous viewing proxies and mobile optimizations.^[14] Post-merger, Ixquick branding lingered on select domains like Ixquick.eu for continuity, though by April 2018, even these redirected fully to Startpage.com, signaling complete operational unification.^[18] The move streamlined the product lineup amid growing demand for high-quality, private access to Google-scale results, without compromising the empirical commitment to non-tracking evidenced by annual privacy seals from bodies like the European Privacy Seal.^[14]

Acquisition by System1 and Subsequent Developments

In December 2018, System1, a U.S.-based digital marketing company specializing in customer acquisition through advertising technologies, acquired a majority stake in Startpage's parent entity, Surfboard Holding B.V., via its subsidiary Privacy One Group Ltd..^[19]^[5] The transaction positioned Startpage as an independent business unit within System1, with contractual safeguards explicitly prohibiting data sharing between Startpage's operations and System1's broader advertising ecosystem, according to company statements..^[20]^[21] The ownership change became public knowledge in October 2019, prompting scrutiny from privacy advocates due to System1's core reliance on targeted advertising and data-driven personalization, models that contrast with Startpage's no-logging policy..^[22]^[6] Critics, including analyses from independent tech sites, raised questions about potential conflicts of interest, arguing that an ad-centric parent could pressure Startpage to monetize user queries indirectly, though no evidence of policy alterations or data breaches has emerged..^[23]^[24] Startpage's founder, Robert Beens, responded that the investment would accelerate global expansion and product development without compromising privacy commitments, emphasizing audited no-tracking practices..^[25] In June 2021, System1 merged with Trebia Acquisition Corp. in a SPAC transaction, going public as System1 Group, Inc. (NYSE: SST) and increasing its visibility as a performance-based marketing firm with over $400 million in annual revenue tied to ad optimization..^[8] This development amplified privacy concerns, as public reporting requirements could theoretically expose more operational details, yet Startpage reiterated operational firewalls and third-party audits confirming its data isolation..^[5] By April 2022, integrations proceeded with browser partnerships, such as Waterfox adopting Startpage as its default search engine, signaling continued trust in its privacy model despite ownership ties..^[26] Privacy-focused communities, such as Privacy Guides, conducted post-acquisition reviews and relisted Startpage in May 2020 after verifying no deviations from its core non-tracking stance, though they advised users to monitor for any future shifts given the parent's incentives..^[22] As of 2025, Startpage maintains its Dutch headquarters and leadership, with System1 executives affirming no interference in privacy protocols, supported by ongoing profitability without user data monetization..^[27]^[21]

Products and Services

Core Search Engine

Startpage's core search engine functions as a metasearch intermediary, lacking its own web index and instead anonymously forwarding user queries to partner engines such as Google and Bing to retrieve results.^[28]^[29] This approach leverages the indexing and ranking algorithms of these providers to deliver high-quality, unprofiled results identical for all users, without personalization based on prior behavior or location.^[30] Queries are processed on Startpage's European servers, where identifying details like IP addresses are stripped before transmission, ensuring no direct connection between the user and the upstream engine.^[31] Upon receiving results from partners, Startpage's system filters out tracking scripts, cookies, and retargeting elements embedded in the output, preventing third-party profiling or ad follow-up.^[30] Search logs, including queries and IPs, are not retained; data is deleted immediately after processing to comply with strict non-collection policies under Dutch and EU law.^[31] This proxy model may occasionally yield results differing from direct access to Google or Bing due to anonymization-induced variations in query handling or provider-specific updates, but it maintains relevance through reliance on established algorithms.^[32] Beyond basic retrieval, the engine integrates features like instant answers and knowledge panels sourced from multiple partners, enhancing utility without compromising anonymity.^[29] Encryption via SSL/TLS with Perfect Forward Secrecy secures the entire query-response cycle, while optional tools such as Anonymous View extend proxying to site visits, routing traffic through Startpage's infrastructure to mask user origins from destination servers.^[31] As of 2023, Startpage expanded beyond Google to incorporate Bing and additional resources, diversifying sources for robustness against single-provider disruptions.^[33]^[34]

StartMail Email Service

StartMail is a privacy-focused email service developed by the founders of Startpage and launched in 2013.^[35]^[36] It operates as a separate entity from Startpage, independently managed despite shared origins, and is headquartered in the Netherlands under GDPR jurisdiction.^[37]^[38] The service emphasizes minimal data retention, with no advertising or tracking, and stores user emails in encrypted "User Vaults" accessible only via user credentials.^[38] Founded by Robert E.G. Beens, StartMail aims to provide accessible secure communication without reliance on U.S.-based providers, prioritizing European data protection standards.^[39] Key features include unlimited disposable email aliases to shield the primary address from spam and phishing, with one-click burner aliases that expire after one hour.^[40] Emails support PGP encryption for end-to-end security between compatible users, including automatic PGP/MIME for full message and attachment encryption, alongside TLS with perfect forward secrecy for transit.^[41]^[40] Users can configure IMAP clients for PGP-enabled access, with 20 GB storage on personal plans and support for custom domains.^[40] Additional security measures encompass two-factor authentication via TOTP, strong password requirements, and self-hosted servers certified under ISO 27001.^[40] The service facilitates easy import of existing emails and contacts, with compatibility for webmail and standard clients like Outlook via IMAP/SMTP.^[40] StartMail maintains strict non-collection policies, logging only anonymized metadata such as sender/recipient addresses for seven days to address spam or abuse before deletion.^[38] Passwords are hashed, and no IP addresses or behavioral data are retained long-term for profiling.^[38] Payment processing involves third parties like Stripe or PayPal with pseudonymized data, but no sharing occurs for commercial purposes; Bitcoin payments are offered for enhanced anonymity.^[40]^[38] While PGP enables user-controlled encryption, server-stored emails in User Vaults rely on provider-managed encryption keys derived from user input, allowing theoretical access under Dutch court orders but with commitments to contest invalid requests.^[38]^[42] Pricing starts at $4.99 per month (billed annually at approximately $59.95) for the personal plan, including all core features, a seven-day free trial, and 24/7 support.^[43] Business plans offer 30 GB storage, unlimited custom domains, and group discounts (25% off additional accounts), suitable for teams requiring shared aliases.^[43]^[40] Subscriptions are annual, with options for debit/credit cards, PayPal, or Bitcoin, and no long-term contracts.^[43]

Mobile and Extension Tools

Startpage offers a mobile application titled "Startpage - Private Browser," available for free download on both iOS and Android platforms.^[44]^[45] Launched in beta for iOS on May 23, 2024, with Android support following in summer 2024 and full release by July 31, 2024, the app functions as a privacy-oriented web browser integrated with Startpage's search engine.^[46]^[47] It defaults to Startpage's anonymous search results, which proxy queries through Google without user tracking, IP logging, or data collection, while providing features such as knowledge panels, instant answers, and localized maps.^[48]^[46] Users can block ads and trackers within the app, customize the interface (e.g., repositioning the URL bar), and clear browsing data without reliance on third-party permissions for core privacy functions.^[49] The app emphasizes operational privacy by avoiding data sales or storage, distinguishing it from ad-driven mobile browsers that often monetize user behavior.^[48] On iOS, it has received a 4.8-star rating from over 4,600 reviews, reflecting user approval for its seamless integration of search and browsing without compromising on result quality comparable to non-private alternatives.^[44] Android users can set it as the default search engine in browsers like Chrome or Firefox via built-in mobile configurations.^[50] Startpage also provides browser extensions for enhanced privacy on desktop and mobile-compatible browsers such as Chrome and Firefox.^[51] The primary "Startpage Privacy Protection" extension, introduced in January 2022, blocks third-party trackers and cookies using a database of known tracking elements, preventing advertisers from monitoring search or browsing activity.^[52]^[53] It sets Startpage as the default search engine, enables always-on anonymous querying, and offers granular controls, such as allowing or denying specific cookies per site, thereby reducing weekly exposure to hundreds of trackers for average users.^[54]^[55] A notable feature, "Escape Route," added in July 2022, permits users to rapidly close tabs and clear history with a single activation, concealing activity from potential onlookers.^[56] The extension maintains Firefox compatibility with a 4.4-star rating from over 700 users as of January 2025, prioritizing tracker prevention over behavioral ad personalization.^[51] Unlike extensions reliant on crowdsourced blocklists, Startpage's tool integrates directly with its proxy-based search model, ensuring no personal data is relayed to result sources.^[57]

Technical Features

Search Result Sourcing and Processing

Startpage sources its search results by acting as an intermediary between users and third-party search providers, primarily Google and Microsoft Bing. When a user submits a query, Startpage's servers receive it over an encrypted connection using SSL/TLS and Perfect Forward Secrecy, ensuring the transmission is secure from interception.^[31] The query is then anonymized by stripping identifying information such as the user's IP address and any personal data, with no logging of queries, IPs, or search history occurring on Startpage's systems.^[30] This anonymized query is forwarded from Startpage's premise servers—physically secured cabinets managed by non-U.S. administrators—to the backend engines' servers using Startpage's own IP addresses, preventing the providers from associating results with the originating user.^[31]^[28] The backend sourcing relies on results retrieved from Google and Bing, a dual-engine approach implemented since at least March 2023 to enhance result diversity and resilience.^[28] Startpage submits the query to both providers anonymously on the user's behalf, aggregates the returned organic results, and processes them to remove any personalization based on user profiles or history, delivering unprofiled outputs identical for all users regardless of location or prior activity.^[28]^[32] This processing includes filtering out tracking elements, such as price trackers and retargeting ad scripts embedded in results, while preserving the core ranking and content from the source engines to maintain high-quality, unbiased retrieval.^[30] Queries are deleted immediately after results are fetched, ensuring no retention for analysis or sharing.^[31] Result delivery back to the user occurs via the same encrypted channel, with Startpage's proprietary technology ensuring that third-party providers receive no feedback loops or user-linked data that could enable profiling.^[30] This model avoids direct indexing or crawling by Startpage itself, depending entirely on the freshness and relevance of partner engines' indexes, which as of 2023 include Bing's integration to mitigate potential over-reliance on Google amid antitrust concerns.^[28]^[33] While this proxy-based sourcing delivers results comparable to direct Google searches in quality, slight differences may arise due to the intermediary layer's timing or aggregation logic, without Startpage altering the underlying algorithmic rankings.^[32]^[58]

Anonymous View Proxy

Startpage's Anonymous View is a proxy service that enables users to access and navigate websites from search results without directly connecting their devices to those sites, thereby concealing the user's IP address from the destination server.^[59] ^[60] When activated via a mask icon adjacent to a search result, Startpage's servers fetch the requested page using their own IP address and serve the content to the user through an intermediary proxy layer.^[59] This process ensures no direct network link forms between the user's device and the target website, reducing exposure to potential tracking or surveillance.^[61] Technically, the proxy rewrites page elements to route all supporting resources—such as images, scripts, and stylesheets—through Startpage's servers rather than allowing direct loads from the original domain, maintaining anonymity across sub-requests.^[59] It enforces HTTPS connections where available, blocks common trackers and advertisements, and supports JavaScript execution for dynamic sites, though complex interactions like logins or personalized sessions may fail due to the lack of user-specific data transmission.^[60] ^[62] Navigation within the proxied site remains possible, with internal links loading via the proxy, while external links default to non-proxied tabs to avoid unintended routing.^[59] The service operates without logging user activity, aligning with Startpage's no-data-retention policy, and is compatible across desktop and mobile platforms.^[62] Privacy benefits include shielding users on untrusted networks, such as public Wi-Fi, from IP-based geolocation or network-level monitoring by site operators.^[60] Unlike standard VPNs, which primarily mask IP at the network level but allow sites to interact directly with the browser, Anonymous View intercepts and sanitizes content to disable fingerprinting techniques, cookie persistence, and third-party trackers like Google Analytics or social media pixels.^[63] It also prevents malware or phishing risks inherent in direct visits by filtering malicious elements, offering superior protection over browser incognito modes that retain IP visibility and local tracking.^[63] However, limitations persist: sites may detect proxy usage through behavioral patterns or incomplete rendering of highly interactive elements, and browser-level fingerprinting via canvas or font metrics could still correlate sessions if not mitigated by user-side tools.^[60] Page load times increase slightly due to the intermediary fetching, and forms requiring POST methods or authentication often require direct access.^[62]

Tracker Blocking and Additional Tools

Startpage offers tracker blocking through its Privacy Protection browser extension, which prevents third-party trackers and cookies from monitoring user browsing activity.^[57] Released in January 2022, the extension operates by maintaining a database of known trackers and automatically blocking third-party content that attempts to collect user data across sites.^[52] ^[55] It distinguishes between trackers—scripts designed to profile users—and cookies, which store data locally, allowing users to selectively block one or both via settings such as "Block all," "Block only cookies," or "Allow all."^[64] The tool provides a privacy score for visited pages, indicating the level of tracking blocked, and includes an "Escape Route" feature for one-click activation of stricter protections on demanding sites.^[65] Unlike full ad blockers, the extension focuses primarily on privacy rather than content removal, complementing other tools without redundancy; for instance, it enhances browsers already using ad blockers by targeting trackers that evade standard filters.^[66] Available free for Chrome and Firefox, it integrates seamlessly with Startpage searches by halting tracker placement during query processing. In core search functionality, Startpage inherently blocks third-party price trackers and retargeting mechanisms by anonymizing requests and avoiding user profiling, ensuring results remain unpersonalized.^[30] The Startpage mobile app extends these capabilities with a toggleable ad and tracker blocker in privacy settings, which intercepts third-party attempts to load advertisements or embed trackers on visited pages.^[67] Activated as of May 2025 updates, this feature processes content in real-time to filter distractions while preserving site usability.^[67] Additional tools include integration with the extension's granular controls, such as managing cookies per site, and compatibility with Startpage's proxy features for layered defense, though users report occasional conflicts with tab suspension tools that may reset sessions.^[68] These mechanisms prioritize empirical blocking of verified trackers over broad script disabling, reducing false positives compared to more aggressive filters.^[53]

Privacy and Security Model

Data Non-Collection Policies

Startpage's data non-collection policies center on refraining from logging or storing any user-identifiable information during search queries. The service explicitly states that it does not collect, store, or share search queries with third parties, ensuring that individual searches remain unrecorded and unprofiled.^[69] This approach extends to IP addresses, which are not retained in a manner that links them to specific user activity, thereby avoiding the creation of personal data profiles.^[69] Beyond queries and identifiers, Startpage maintains that no personal information is gathered from visitors, with the sole exception of aggregate statistics on total daily search volumes, which are anonymized and used only for operational metrics without tying back to individuals.^[70] These policies apply across web, mobile, and extension interfaces, where no browsing history or tracking cookies are saved or sold.^[71] In practice, this means users' search histories are neither retained on Startpage's servers nor accessible for advertising or analytics purposes, distinguishing the engine from mainstream alternatives that monetize user data.^[69] Operational transparency reinforces these commitments through features like non-persistent session handling, where any temporary data generated during a session—such as for Anonymous View proxying—is discarded immediately after use without archival.^[69] Independent assessments, including those from privacy-focused reviews as of 2024, corroborate that Startpage adheres to a zero-logging model for personal identifiers, though aggregate data collection for performance tuning remains minimal and non-intrusive.^[72] Users are advised to review the full policy for edge cases, such as optional account features in affiliated services like StartMail, which may involve separate consent-based data handling not applicable to core search operations.^[69]

Operational Safeguards and Audits

Startpage implements operational safeguards primarily through its no-logging architecture, wherein search queries are not stored, IP addresses are not recorded for routine operations, and identifying metadata is stripped before forwarding requests to Google via proxy servers.^[69] These measures ensure that Startpage retains no personally identifiable information (PII) from user interactions, with temporary IP logging limited to abuse detection such as robotic queries, after which data is discarded.^[69] The service employs Strict Transport Security (HSTS) to enforce HTTPS connections, preventing downgrade attacks and enhancing session security.^[73] To minimize tracking risks, Startpage avoids tracking cookies, issuing only an anonymous preferences cookie that expires after 90 days and contains no unique identifiers.^[69] Analytics are conducted on anonymized aggregate data for traffic and system performance, without profiling or ad targeting.^[69] As an EU-based entity in the Netherlands, Startpage adheres to GDPR requirements, subjecting operations to oversight by the Dutch Data Protection Authority, though it discloses that data disclosure could occur under legal compulsion despite minimal retention.^[69] Regarding audits, Startpage underwent EuroPriSe certifications in 2011, with recertifications in 2013 and 2015, validating compliance with EU data protection standards for IT services and processors.^[74] A 2022 announcement referenced a EuroPriSe audit of privacy and data-handling practices, resulting in the award of the EuroPriSe Privacy Seal, though details on scope and independent verification post-2015 remain limited in public records.^[75] Company statements assert regular third-party verification of privacy practices, but no comprehensive independent audits have been documented following the 2019 acquisition by System1, raising questions among privacy analysts about ongoing operational transparency.^[76]

Partnerships and Third-Party Integrations

Startpage primarily sources its core search results by anonymously proxying queries to Google, acting as an intermediary to retrieve results without disclosing user data to the provider. This arrangement, established since the engine's inception, allows Startpage to deliver Google's index while preventing direct tracking by stripping identifiers such as IP addresses and search histories before forwarding requests.^[28] In March 2023, Startpage expanded its result enhancements through integrations with additional third-party providers, incorporating data from Microsoft Bing for diversified indexing alongside Google. These updates included custom implementations with MapQuest and HERE Technologies for mapping and location services, as well as Tomorrow.io for weather information, all designed to embed results without compromising user anonymity via tailored privacy-preserving APIs.^[77]^[78] Startpage formed a partnership with the Vivaldi web browser in May 2020, enabling seamless integration as a default search option within Vivaldi's settings to promote privacy-focused searching across the browser's user base. This collaboration emphasized user control over data sharing, aligning with both entities' commitments to customization and non-tracking policies.^[79]^[80] These partnerships are governed by contractual agreements that enforce data isolation, ensuring third-party providers receive no personally identifiable information from Startpage's operations. Independent audits and Startpage's non-logging policy further mitigate risks of data leakage in these integrations.^[28]

Reception, Impact, and Criticisms

Adoption and User Base Growth

Startpage's adoption accelerated in the mid-2010s amid heightened public awareness of data privacy issues, including revelations from Edward Snowden's leaks in 2013, which spotlighted government surveillance and corporate data collection practices. The service, originally launched as Ixquick in 1998 and rebranded to Startpage around 2009, positioned itself as a non-tracking alternative by proxying Google results while stripping user identifiers. By 2017, it processed an estimated 2 billion searches annually.^[10] This volume reflected steady expansion, with the company reporting 10% year-over-year growth in searches as of early 2018, attributed to users seeking alternatives to dominant engines amid scandals like Cambridge Analytica.^[10] Growth was further supported by integrations, such as partnerships with privacy-oriented browsers like Vivaldi in 2020, which embedded Startpage as a default option to enhance user privacy without compromising result quality.^[79] As of September 2025, Startpage ranks among the top search engines globally by traffic volume, with approximately 50.62 million monthly visits according to analytics data, indicating sustained niche appeal among privacy-focused demographics, predominantly males aged 18-24.^[81]^[82] Despite holding a modest 0.11% share of the U.S. tablet search market, its user base has expanded through mobile apps, browser extensions, and endorsements from privacy advocates, though it remains dwarfed by mainstream competitors.^[83]

Positive Assessments from Privacy Advocates

Edward Snowden, a prominent privacy advocate and former NSA contractor, has endorsed Startpage as a tool for avoiding user tracking. In a November 2016 live interview streamed from Moscow and sponsored by Startpage, Snowden specifically recommended "services like Startpage that don't track you," highlighting the importance of such alternatives in protecting online privacy amid government surveillance concerns.^[84]^[85] This assessment aligns with Snowden's broader advocacy for technologies that prioritize data non-collection, as evidenced in his contemporaneous discussions on building privacy-resilient systems regardless of political changes.^[86] Privacy review platforms have similarly commended Startpage's model. ProPrivacy, a site focused on secure online tools, lists Startpage among the top private search engines in 2025 comparisons, praising its zero-logging policy, encrypted connections, and delivery of unprofiled Google-sourced results under strict European standards.^[87] TechRadar, in a 2021 evaluation, rated it 4.5 out of 5 for providing high-quality search without invasive tracking, noting its effectiveness for users seeking Google's accuracy minus personalization-based surveillance.^[88] These evaluations underscore Startpage's appeal to advocates valuing empirical privacy safeguards over convenience trade-offs.

Controversies Over Ownership and Independence

In October 2019, Startpage's parent company, Surfboard Holding BV, transferred ownership to Privacy One Group Ltd, a subsidiary controlled by System1, a U.S.-based digital advertising technology firm focused on targeted ad delivery.^[6] System1, publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange since 2021, generates revenue primarily through data-driven advertising platforms, prompting skepticism among privacy advocates regarding potential conflicts with Startpage's no-tracking model.^[89] Critics argued that an ad-tech parent's financial incentives could pressure Startpage to weaken privacy safeguards or share anonymized data aggregates, despite contractual separations.^[90] Privacy-focused communities, including Privacy Guides, delisted Startpage from recommendations in November 2019, citing the acquisition's opacity and System1's business model as undermining trust in its independence.^[90] Similar concerns echoed in forums and analyses, where the shift from Dutch independence to U.S. corporate oversight raised fears of regulatory vulnerabilities under laws like the CLOUD Act, potentially enabling data access requests without user notification.^[91] No verified instances of privacy breaches have emerged post-acquisition, but detractors highlighted System1's history of data-centric operations as inherently misaligned with zero-logging ideals.^[24] Startpage responded by affirming operational autonomy under binding agreements prohibiting data access by System1, emphasizing continued third-party audits of its no-logging policies as of 2024.^[21] System1's CEO, Michael Blend, reiterated in 2021 that the partnership preserves Startpage's privacy-first ethos without integration into ad systems.^[27] Nonetheless, some observers, including independent reviews, questioned the sustainability of this separation given System1's revenue pressures, recommending alternatives like self-hosted search for assured independence.

Criticisms of Limitations and Effectiveness

Critics have noted that Startpage's reliance on proxied Google results limits its search effectiveness for users accustomed to personalized outcomes, as it does not tailor results based on prior searches or user data, potentially reducing relevance for location-specific or history-dependent queries.^[92]^[93] Additionally, Startpage omits Google's rich features such as knowledge panels, featured snippets, and instant answers, requiring users to click through more links for quick information, which diminishes efficiency compared to direct Google use.^[88]^[93] The engine displays only 10 results per page and offers restricted advanced search operators, such as limited file-type filtering or term combination tools, hindering precise queries and necessitating more manual refinement.^[93] Search speed is noticeably slower than Google's due to proxy processing, with load times increased further when using Anonymous View, which routes traffic through Startpage's servers.^[88]^[93] Handling of misspellings is less robust, sometimes yielding no results where competitors autocorrect effectively.^[92] Startpage's Anonymous View proxy, intended to mask IP addresses and block trackers, introduces compatibility issues with sites employing bot detection like Cloudflare, often failing human verification challenges and rendering pages unusable.^[94] While it prevents direct site tracking, the proxy does not inherently block all scripts or ads routed via Google servers, potentially exposing users to indirect logging unless supplemented by browser extensions.^[92] This dependency on Google's index also creates a structural vulnerability: any restrictions or changes by Google to API access or result formatting could impair Startpage's core functionality without an independent crawler.^[92]

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Oct 15, 2019 · One of the Startpage founders still has primary operational control over privacy considerations related to Startpage's day to day functionality.I Can't Connect To Startpage Any Longer : r/StartpageSearch - RedditWhat is the difference between ixquick and startpage? : r/privacyMore results from www.reddit.com
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What is Startpage's relationship with Privacy One/System1 and what ...
Aug 15, 2025 · Startpage's number one priority was and remains the privacy of its users, and System1 would never try to change that. Additionally, it was ...Missing: subsequent | Show results with:subsequent
[22]
Relisting Startpage.com - Privacy Guides
May 3, 2020 · In October 2019, we learned that System1 had become the majority shareholder in Startpage.com via a new System1 subsidiary, Privacy One Group.<|control11|><|separator|>
[23]
Startpage and System1 Abuse Your Privacy Under the Guise of ...
Oct 17, 2019 · Startpage has sold out and may have also sold data it retained about its users to a privacy-hostile company whose entire business model is surveillance.<|separator|>
[24]
Startpage replies to questions about ownership change - Ghacks.net
Nov 18, 2019 · A new support document on the Startpage website reveals details about the recent ownership changes that tool place.
[25]
Startpage Founder Robert Beens discusses the investment from ...
Aug 15, 2025 · November 17, 2019. Earlier this year, we announced a significant investment in Startpage that we are excited about. This will enable us to ...
[26]
Startpage's New GM Talks Privacy, Women in Tech - System1
Nov 17, 2021 · System1's new General Manager of Startpage, Alex Kubiak, to pick her brain about all things women in tech, data privacy, and the future of Startpage.Missing: subsequent concerns
[27]
Startpage is Still a Privacy-First Search Engine, says System1 CEO
Mar 17, 2021 · An interview with System1 CEO, Michael Blend, about the controversial partnership with Privacy-First search engine, Startpage.Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
[28]
What is the relationship between Startpage and your search ...
Mar 8, 2023 · Startpage acts as an intermediary between you and other entities: For example, Startpage submits your query to Google and Bing anonymously on your behalf.
[29]
What is Startpage?
Aug 15, 2025 · Startpage is a global privacy technology company. We were founded in 2006, in the Netherlands, and since then we have provided best-in-class search results.Missing: core | Show results with:core
[30]
How Startpage Works
Record search history, personal data and location (IP address) · Record and share IP address · Allow other websites to track and profile users for advertising ...
[31]
How does Startpage's Private Search Engine work?
Jan 20, 2020 · Any search query you make gets sent to a cloud server that doesn't know you and communicates with Google. Search results are then returned to “ ...Who's Looking Over Your... · How Does Startpage's Private... · What Makes Startpage...
[32]
Why do I get different results with Startpage?
Oct 28, 2024 · One of two things may be causing you to receive different Startpage results vs. what you would receive from Google, Bing, or our other results providers.
[33]
Startpage update (no longer uses Google results) - Tool Suggestions
Oct 12, 2023 · As others have mentioned, Startpage now includes both Google and Bing as sources. There was a previous GitHub issue about this that is now ...
[34]
Does the Startpage private search engine use Google or Bing? Can ...
Jun 29, 2024 · Startpage is not limited to Google and Bing. We leverage multiple content resources, including knowledge bases from partners across various fields.Anyone who uses Startpage? How good is it? : r/degoogle - Redditwhat the f#=k is startpage - chrome - RedditMore results from www.reddit.comMissing: core | Show results with:core
[35]
StartMail Relisted on PrivacyTools.io – Trusted Privacy Email
May 11, 2020 · Startpage, from the same founders as StartMail, has been relisted as a recommended Privacy Respecting Search Engine on the PrivacyTools website.
[36]
StartMail - Crunchbase Company Profile & Funding
StartMail is a web-based private email service that provides access to everyone for everyday communication. It was launched in 2013.
[37]
How are StartMail and Startpage connected?
Apr 16, 2024 · Although we have the same founders as Startpage, StartMail is a separate company and operates independently from System1.
[38]
StartMail Privacy Policy – Your Data, Your Control
Sep 24, 2020 · Learn how StartMail protects your privacy – No tracking, no ads, and full control over your data. Read our privacy policy today!
[39]
From Idea to Reality: The StartMail Founding Story - YouTube
Aug 27, 2024 · In this video, StartMail Founder and CEO Robert E.G. Beens talks about the beginning of his privacy journey, the founding of Startpage and ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
[40]
StartMail Features – Stay Private! | Secure & Ad-Free Email
Discover StartMail's powerful features – Encrypted email, unlimited aliases, and no tracking. Hosted in Europe, privacy is our top priority.
[41]
Encrypting and decrypting messages - StartMail
Jun 6, 2025 · You have to import your recipient's PGP key into your PGP keyring. Once this is done StartMail will automatically choose PGP encryption.
[42]
StartMail Review - PCMag
May 19, 2023 · With the simple StartMail service, you can encrypt messages to trusted parties and hide your email behind an alias for untrusted ones.
[43]
StartMail Pricing – Choose Your Plan! | Private & Secure
Secure, encrypted email with StartMail domain or your own domain. Most popular with individuals and families. $4.99 per month, billed annually.
[44]
Startpage - Private Browser on the App Store - Apple
Rating 4.8 (4,651) · Free · iOSStartpage is a privacy-focused search engine that aims to provide search results on par with other leading search engines while safeguarding user privacy.
[45]
Download Startpage (free) for Android, APK, iOS and Web App
Rating 4.6 (5,236) · Free · CommunicationOct 1, 2025 · Startpage is a Google-powered search engine that keeps you private by removing any tracking scripts. This way, you get anonymous access to results.
[46]
Startpage app is here! (iOS beta w/ Android coming this summer!)
May 23, 2024 · Default Private Search: Startpage's private search engine provides users with detailed knowledge panels, instant answers, localized maps, and ...Does the Startpage private search engine use Google or Bing? Can ...Does anyone use "Startpage" search engine? Any thoughts about it?More results from www.reddit.com
[47]
The Startpage App has launched!
Jul 31, 2024 · Download the Startpage App now and start enjoying a smarter, safer way to search and browse the web. We look forward to hearing from you soon!Missing: mobile | Show results with:mobile<|separator|>
[48]
Startpage App FAQ
Aug 15, 2025 · Startpage.com is a search engine that gives you web search results while protecting your online privacy. The Startpage app is a mobile web ...
[49]
Startpage App
Startpage App. Safe, secure, private browsing and search. General Use and Customization · Blocking ads and trackers in the Startpage app · Move URL bar from ...
[50]
Mobile (Android) - Startpage Support
Mobile (Android). Make Startpage the default search engine in Chrome (Android) ... Make Startpage your default search engine on Firefox mobile (Android).
[51]
Startpage – Get this Extension for Firefox (en-US)
Rating 4.4 (733) · FreeJan 8, 2025 · Startpage by Startpage. This extension protects users from being tracked while allowing them to search the web in complete private mode.
[52]
How does the extension work? - Startpage Support
May 1, 2024 · The Startpage Privacy Protection extension blocks third-party content that tracks you. It uses a database of known trackers.
[53]
Easy privacy control across the Internet - introducing Startpage ...
Jan 18, 2022 · By installing the free browser extension, the average person can prevent hundreds of trackers and cookies on a weekly basis. Of course, the ...
[54]
Startpage — Private Search Engine - Chrome Web Store
Startpage is a private search engine with no tracking, storing, or selling users' search history. To ensure you have always-on search privacy.
[55]
Startpage Privacy Protection browser extension blocks third-party ...
Jan 20, 2022 · Provides control over cookies: The extension stops trackers from being placed on search activities by advertisers and third parties entirely; or ...
[56]
Introducing New Startpage Extension Feature: Escape Route
Jul 12, 2022 · Escape Route allows you to quickly hide your search and browsing activity from anyone that may come up behind you and see your screen.
[57]
What is the Startpage Privacy Protection extension?
Sep 11, 2023 · The Startpage Privacy Protection extension is a browser extension that prevents advertisers and other third parties from tracking your web browsing.
[58]
How to use Startpage more effectively
Mar 8, 2023 · Startpage doesn't maintain its own index of websites, but instead acts as an intermediary between you and Google and you and Bing.
[59]
How does Anonymous View work? - Startpage Support
Feb 16, 2023 · Our Anonymous View feature lets Startpage users anonymously view a search result, and navigate within that website.
[60]
The Anonymous View proxy—technical details - Startpage Support
May 14, 2024 · The Startpage proxy protects users who connect over untrusted internet connections, like public Wi-Fi in coffee shops and airports.Missing: results | Show results with:results
[61]
How to use Anonymous View - Startpage Support
Jun 2, 2022 · Just click the Anonymous View mask icon next to the search result. This link will open the proxy window, displaying that website's contents for ...
[62]
Anonymous View by Startpage
This feature enables you to visit the websites from your search results anonymously, guaranteeing secure HTTPS connection, on both desktop and mobile devices.
[63]
Browse the web with Startpage's Anonymous View
Nov 11, 2019 · Startpage's Anonymous View feature lets you visit search results in total privacy. It's more private than a VPN or private mode.How Anonymous View Works And... · What's The Difference... · Startpage Anonymous View...<|separator|>
[64]
What is the difference between trackers and cookies?
May 1, 2024 · The Startpage Privacy Extension helps keep your browsing sessions and personal information private by blocking trackers and cookies that...<|separator|>
[65]
Privacy Protection Extension - Startpage Support
Privacy Protection Extension. Block trackers and cookies. Escape Route · What is the Startpage Privacy Protection extension?
[66]
I use other privacy tools like ad blockers and private browsers ...
May 1, 2024 · If you're using other privacy-oriented tools while you browse, you can still benefit from having the Startpage Privacy Protection extension.Missing: additional | Show results with:additional
[67]
Blocking ads and trackers in the Startpage app
May 29, 2025 · To Enable and disable ad and tracker blocking, go to Settings > Privacy. privacy settings (en).png. Ad & tracker blocking can be toggled on or ...Missing: features | Show results with:features
[68]
I am DONE with Start page! It keeps blocking my searches entirely!
Aug 25, 2021 · I use something that suspends my unused tabs, and when that happens to a StartPage search, it resets for me. No extra plugin = better.Missing: features | Show results with:features
[69]
Our Privacy Policy - Startpage
Search queries are not collected, stored, or shared with third parties. While using the app, your privacy is now enhanced beyond what we have been able to ...
[70]
What is your data collection policy? What do you record?
Jun 2, 2022 · We don't collect any personal information on our visitors. The only information we record is an aggregate total of how many searches are performed on our ...
[71]
Use Private Search Engine to Protect Privacy & Personal ... - Startpage
Startpage is a private search engine that does not save or sell search history, has no 3rd party trackers, and provides un-profiled Google results.
[72]
3 Essential Steps for Mobile Privacy With Startpage | HowStuffWorks
Jul 16, 2024 · Kick off your privacy journey with Startpage. It's default private search engine ensures your online searches are anonymous and secure.<|separator|>
[73]
Privacy - Startpage Support
How we protect your privacy. Policies, technologies, legal. Practices and Protections · Does Startpage use Strict Transport Security (HSTS)? Yes we do!Missing: operational | Show results with:operational<|separator|>
[74]
On StartPage's Privacy Audit, And How They Might Be More ... - Reddit
May 6, 2020 · We were the first privacy search engine to ever audit. No other search engine ever followed our lead. However, it didn't prove to be the ...Is startpage still good engine for privacy? : r/StartpageSearchghacks review: Startpage Privacy Protection is a new ...More results from www.reddit.com
[75]
Startpage's EuroPriSe audit
Jun 2, 2022 · EuroPriSe performed a rigorous and thorough audit of our privacy and data-handling practices, awarding us the EuroPriSe Privacy Seal certification.
[76]
What specific assurances exist about StartPage privacy?
Sep 1, 2018 · StartPage does not record any information about its users. Zero. Zilch. Nada. and. [O]ur privacy practices are regularly audited and third-party ...
[77]
Startpage Bolsters Private Search Results with New Product ...
Mar 14, 2023 · Search results now incorporate information from a host of new partners, including Microsoft Bing, MapQuest, HERE Technologies, Tomorrow.io, and ...
[78]
Enhanced search results on Startpage
Feb 28, 2023 · New integrations Startpage collaborated closely with partners to develop custom implementations that align with the platform's unique privacy ...Missing: third- | Show results with:third-
[79]
Startpage and Vivaldi bring more privacy to your search
May 20, 2020 · Startpage and the Vivaldi browser – both governed by strict European data protection laws – give users world-class search results with zero tracking.
[80]
Vivaldi browser teams up with ultra-private Startpage search engine
May 21, 2020 · The privacy-focused Vivaldi browser has announced a partnership with search engine Startpage to allow users the ability to control what data ...
[81]
startpage.com Website Traffic, Ranking, Analytics [September 2025]
Oct 10, 2025 · startpage.com is ranked #112 in DE with 50.62M Traffic. Categories: Computer Software and Development, Online Services.
[82]
startpage.com Traffic Analytics, Ranking & Audience [September 2025]
startpage.com's audience is 67.81% male and 32.19% female. The largest age group of visitors are 18 - 24 year olds.
[83]
Search Engine Marketing Statistics 2025 [Usage & Trends]
Oct 6, 2025 · The internet user base is projected to grow by 200 million worldwide by 2025. ... StartPage holds 0.11% of the tablet search engine market ...
[84]
Edward Snowden recommends services like StartPage that don't ...
Nov 22, 2016 · Edward Snowden recommends services like StartPage that don't track you. 18K views · 8 years ago ...more. Startpage. 3.83K. Subscribe.
[85]
Celebrating Startpage's 15 year anniversary of protecting your privacy
In a special November 10 conversation streamed from Moscow, Edward Snowden offered the following tip about protecting your privacy online: “Be careful about ...
[86]
Snowden says tech companies should protect privacy no matter who ...
Nov 10, 2016 · Edward Snowden gave an extended interview today touching on numerous topics, from the Trump Presidency to his own future.<|separator|>
[87]
5 Best Private Search Engines in 2025 - ProPrivacy.com
Using a private search engine such as StartPage or DuckDuckGo is becoming ever more important. Many privacy focused alternatives usually leverage the big ...
[88]
Startpage search engine review - TechRadar
Rating 4.5 · Review by Sofia Elizabella Wyciślik-WilsonMay 24, 2021 · Startpage is a privacy-focused search engine that aims to deliver search results that are as good as Google's without any of the unwanted tracking.
[89]
https://system1.com/
[90]
Delisting Startpage From Privacy Guides
Nov 12, 2019 · Startpage has been removed from Privacy Guides' recommendations following their acquisition by System1.
[91]
Remove Startpage - Tool Suggestions - Privacy Guides Community
Jun 13, 2023 · Startpage is owned by an ad-tech agency (System1). While Startpage might truly keep data private, it's non-obvious why a System1, a publicly traded US company, ...
[92]
Startpage Search Engine Review - Is It Legit? - Dev Problems
Dec 15, 2023 · Introduction to Startpage: Startpage was founded in 1998 under the name “Ixquick” and later rebranded as Startpage in 2016. It is based in the ...Missing: date | Show results with:date
[93]
Startpage vs DuckDuckGo – Which One Should You Choose?
Jul 12, 2023 · In summary, Startpage may not appeal to users who prioritize quick search results, advanced search functions, or personalized search experiences ...
[94]
Anonymous View problem : r/StartpageSearch - Reddit
May 12, 2024 · Unfortunately Anonymous View breaks websites if these sites want to make sure that i am a human by using something of cloudflare.Missing: limitations | Show results with:limitations