# Linux Mint privacy rating

A desktop Linux distribution based on Ubuntu or Debian, with the Cinnamon, MATE and Xfce desktops and its own tools for updates and system settings.

## Summary

Linux Mint scores 30 out of 100 (grade F) on the desktop operating systems criteria. It meets 1 of 4 criteria: open source. It does not meet no trackers or telemetry, no ads or data sales and independent audit.

- Website: https://linuxmint.com
- Source code: https://github.com/linuxmint
- Platforms: Linux
- Home page trackers: none found
- Category: [Desktop operating systems](https://privacyratings.com/desktop-operating-systems/)
- Grade: F (30/100)

## Criteria

| Criterion | Answer | Note | Evidence |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Open source | Yes | Linux Mint's own tools are open source, mostly under the GPL, on top of Ubuntu or Debian packages. | https://github.com/linuxmint |
| No trackers or telemetry | No | The website uses Google Analytics on the browser start pages and Google AdSense cookies. | https://linuxmint.com/privacy.php |
| No ads or data sales | No | The website shows Google AdSense ads to help fund the project, alongside donations and sponsors. | https://linuxmint.com/privacy.php |
| Independent audit | No | No independent audit is published. |  |

Source: https://privacyratings.com/desktop-operating-systems/linux-mint/
Edit: https://github.com/privacyratings/privacyratings.com/edit/main/ratings/desktop-operating-systems/linux-mint.md