How to make sure that I am safe when using Tor?
TOR is a popular browser used by many who want to browse anonymously on the dark web. Many people use TOR because it is free and provides anonymity by routing user traffic through multiple routers. It helps in making the user invisible or use a different identity while going to .onion pages.
Popularly, people use TOR to download movies or songs, go to chatting or networking portals, go to marketplaces to buy books or clothes or gadgets, use encrypted mail services to send and receive encrypted emails etc. TOR also blocks web services or advertisements that you have not subscribed for. Though TOR is used for many purposes, it is important that you follow some safety measures to ensure your browsing experience is secure and without any problems.
Following are the safety measures when using TOR:
Use TAILS: It is better to use TAILS OS by Linux, as it has TOR already installed on it. Download TAILS on a USB drive as it will make the OS portable that means can be plugged and used on any device.
Download TOR: If you do not want to use TOR on your existing OS, then download TOR browser from the TOR website only. It is free to download.
Install TOR: After downloading and installing TOR, it is also not necessary to download any plugins or themes, since TOR already has in-built plugins and themes.
Plugins and Themes: New plugins or themes could disrupt the TOR browser and its effectiveness. It could also reduce the security level of the browser and make you vulnerable.
Avoid other programs: TOR is slow when compared to surface web browsers, but it is advisable not to download other programs to gain speed as it could bring down your security and anonymity.
Configure TOR: Make changes to the Browser settings and move up the security level to the Highest level.
Do not minimize or maximize the TOR window size:Keep the window at the default size only as changes the size could disable security-based plugins and you could be at risk of being hacked or your device or emails could be attacked by malware or virus.
Use VPN: Also using a VPN service will help you appear as being in a different location, as masks your IP address.
Do not share personal Information: It is important to not share your personal information with anyone, especially when using services of dark web email providers, or when in chat rooms, forums etc.
HTTPS websites: Only go to HTTPS websites when browsing on the dark web, as it provides SSL encryption.
Use Cryptocurrencies to receive and make payments: When using TOR to make purchases, it is advisable to make or receive payments through cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum etc.
Do not use Credit/Debit cards or Netbanking:Direct payments through credit cards or bank is a big mistake, as there are hackers who may steal your important financial and personal information.
Use exact URL: Always use the exact URL of a website, is could be dangerous to visit any other website you are aware of. If you type in the wrong URL, you could go to a wrong website.
Use reputed email service provider: Always use anonymous email service provider like Zmail.email for best anonymous email free communication.
When you know the best and safe ways to browse using TOR on the dark web, you are making sure that your identity is anonymous and private.
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