Tails 5.14 updates the included software and secures persistent storage with better encryption. The Linux distribution Tails for anonymous, trackless surfing to start from the USB stick is now available in version 5.14. The new version updates the persistent storage with stronger encryption and updates the included software.

The Tails developers have announced that the encryption used in Tails 5.12 and earlier versions of the persistent data container is not strong enough to protect against state-sponsored attackers with physical access to the device. As a result, Tails 5.14 automatically converts the persistent storage to LUKS2 encryption with Argon2id, which is a more secure algorithm. However, the developers still recommend that users update the passphrases of their LUKS-encrypted drives, even if they already consist of five or more random words. This is because a strong passphrase is still the best way to protect your data.

Tails: Simplified backup

In addition, the installer now includes a backup tool that can be used to create a complete clone of the persistent storage. This is a faster way to create a backup than using the previous backup tool, which only allows you to update an existing backup.

The detection of captive portals now also works when the option to automatically connect to the Tor network is activated. This means that you will now be notified of captive portals more quickly, and you will be able to log in to the network before using the Tor browser.

The Tor browser has been updated to version 12.0.7. In the welcome screen, the developers have replaced the button for creating a persistent storage with a slider. They have also added some descriptions of the features of the persistent storage. A duplicate entry for persistent bookmarks in the Files file browser has been hidden, and the desktop environment no longer restarts when users create a persistent store.

As usual, Tails can be updated on the USB stick with the automatic update function - this is recommended if persistent storage is in use, as it will be lost during a (re)installation on the stick. The website also contains images for USB sticks and a download page for ISO images.

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