For those concerned about their online privacy---whether it's protection from would-be hackers or internet companies tracking your browser history---a Chicago startup wants to help. And its hardware device just launched on Kickstarter.
Winston, a startup founded in 2018 by adtech veteran Richard Stokes, is a hardware device that connects to your cable modem and wireless router. Winston’s anti-tracking technology encrypts your internet connection to keep out hackers, protect from corporate and government surveillance, and can increase your internet speed by blocking ads that follow you around the web.
The device hit Kickstarter this week, starting at $179. Winston also charges a monthly subscription fee of $8.25. Kickstarter backers can expect the device to arrive in August, the company says.
Winston, one of Chicago Inno's 19 Startups to Watch in 2019, is among the most promising hardware startups in Chicago. It's backed with $1 million in funding from Chicago investors like New Stack Ventures, Founder Equity and M25.
The key to Winston is its simplicity, Stokes previously explained to Chicago Inno. After a quick plug-and-play setup, Winston can start protecting all of the devices on your network.
“It’s strong enough for the NSA but simple enough for Mom,” Stokes said.
So far, Winston has raised more than $16,000 toward its $20,000 goal. Its campaign runs through the end of June.
