Last updated: September 30, 2026
ShieldNook is reader-supported. Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you click one and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What this means for you
- You pay the same price, and sometimes less when a partner offers our readers a discount.
- We’re only paid if you decide to buy. You’re never under any obligation.
- Commissions help cover hosting, testing tools and the time it takes to write careful, up-to-date guides, so the site stays free to read.
Our promise to you
- Commissions never decide our recommendations. We recommend tools based on hands-on use, ease of use, privacy practices and value.
- Free options come first. If a free tool or setting does the job, we’ll tell you, even though we earn nothing from it.
- We’re upfront about testing. If we haven’t used something hands-on, we’ll say so.
- Sponsored content is always labeled. If a company ever pays for a post, it will be clearly marked as sponsored.
Where you’ll see affiliate links
Affiliate links may appear in guides, reviews, comparison tables and buttons (for example, “Try it” or “See current price”). Articles that contain affiliate links include a short note near the top.
Who we work with
We may join affiliate programs run by companies whose products we write about, such as VPN providers, password managers, identity protection services, security software and retailers. Joining a program never guarantees a positive review.
This disclosure is provided in line with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s guidance on endorsements and testimonials.
Questions
If you have any questions about how we make money, email hello@shieldnook.com.