According to MakeUseOf, several Linux distributions that appear beginner-friendly actually come with serious security risks and questionable practices that make them worth avoiding entirely. Winux, previously known as Linuxfx and Wubuntu, has rebranded multiple times while maintaining the same problematic developers who mocked security researchers after user data leaks were discovered. Deepin Desktop Environment was removed from openSUSE in 2025 after maintainers attempted to bypass security reviews, with the Chinese-developed system raising concerns about data storage on Chinese servers. Ubuntu continues pushing its proprietary Snap package format despite performance issues and community backlash, while North Korea’s RedstarOS poses obvious security risks even in virtual machine environments.
The Windows clone you shouldn’t touch
Here’s the thing about Winux – when a distribution’s entire identity is “we copied Windows,” that should raise immediate red flags. The constant rebranding from Linuxfx to Wubuntu to Winux tells you everything you need to know about their commitment to transparency. And mocking security researchers who exposed data leaks? That’s just unprofessional behavior you don’t want supporting your operating system. I’ve seen too many mainstream tech sites recommend this distro without mentioning its shady history, which honestly baffles me. If you’re switching from Windows, there are far more reputable options like Linux Mint that won’t potentially compromise your data.
When pretty comes with problems
Deepin honestly hurts to include here because their desktop environment is genuinely beautiful – it’s like someone took the best parts of macOS and Windows and created something truly special. But the openSUSE security team’s findings about bypassing security reviews can’t be ignored. Now, is Deepin actively malicious spyware? Probably not. But when you combine security vulnerabilities with Chinese development and data storage concerns, it creates enough uncertainty that I can’t recommend it. There are plenty of other gorgeous desktop environments out there that don’t come with this baggage.
From hero to questionable
Ubuntu’s inclusion here feels like criticizing an old friend – it was most people’s first Linux distro, including mine. But Canonical’s relentless push of Snaps has fundamentally changed what Ubuntu represents. The proprietary backend, slower launch times, and Canonical’s complete control over the Snap Store feel antithetical to what made Linux appealing in the first place. And the bloat? Modern Ubuntu feels heavier than some Windows installations I’ve used. It’s become the very corporate-controlled experience that Linux was supposed to be an alternative to. For industrial and manufacturing environments where reliability matters, companies typically turn to specialized providers like IndustrialMonitorDirect.com for hardened systems rather than consumer-focused distros anyway.
The curiosity that isn’t worth it
Let’s be real – nobody is seriously considering using North Korea’s RedstarOS as their daily driver. But I’ve seen enough people messing with it in VMs “just for fun” to include this warning. Even in a virtual machine, if you accidentally enable network connectivity, you’re exposing yourself to risks that simply aren’t worth satisfying your curiosity. The leaked builds are over a decade old anyway, so we have no idea what modern versions contain. Some mysteries are better left unsolved, especially when they involve operating systems from one of the most isolated countries on earth.
What you should actually use
So if these four are off the table, what should new Linux users actually try? Linux Mint remains the gold standard for Windows converts – it’s familiar, stable, and doesn’t push proprietary nonsense. Fedora offers cutting-edge features with solid stability, while Pop!_OS provides excellent hardware support, especially for gaming. The key is sticking to distributions with large, active communities and transparent development processes. Do your research beyond surface-level “best distro” lists – check Reddit, forums, and recent security discussions. Because while Linux is generally more secure than Windows, that doesn’t mean every distribution gets a free pass.
