Tor Browser - Private, secure browsing

App Name: Tor Browser

Summary: Tor Browser is the official mobile browser supported by the Tor Project, creators of the most powerful tool for online privacy and freedom. The app is always free, but donations are encouraged to support the Tor Project, a US-based nonprofit organization. By using Tor Browser, you can block trackers, defend against surveillance, resist fingerprinting, and benefit from multi-layered encryption provided by relay servers in the Tor network. Enjoy unrestricted browsing with Tor Browser and access sites that may be blocked by your local internet service provider.

How Does the Tor Browser Work?

The Tor Browser is a modified version of the Mozilla Firefox browser and includes the TorButton, TorLauncher, NoScript, and HTTPS Everywhere Firefox extensions, along with the Tor proxy. You can run it from removable media (a USB stick, for example).

The browser is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows desktop and laptop computers. A Tor Browser from the Tor Project is available for Android, and The Onion Browser from developer and journalist Mike Tigas is available for iOS mobile devices, which the Tor Project links to.

The browser uses a unique security system, which the United States Navy originally developed to protect the government’s intelligence communications.

All Tor Browser data is encrypted and relayed three times over the Onion Router network, which is composed of thousands of volunteer-run servers, which are known as Tor relays.

This encryption and relaying of your browsing data prevents anyone who is watching from detecting which websites you are visiting. All anyone can see is that you’re using Tor. You can also hide your Tor activity (more about that later).

The Tor Browser is configured to make all users look the same, making it nearly impossible for users to be fingerprinted based on their browser and device information.

Features

Tracker Blocker -- Tor Browser isolates each website users visit so third-party trackers and ads can't follow them. Any cookies automatically clear when users are done browsing.

Fingerprinting Protection -- Tor Browser for Android makes it difficult for users to be fingerprinted based on their browser and device information.

No ISP Blocks -- Users are free to access any sites, even those blocked by local ISPs.

Connections Through the Tor Network -- All anyone monitoring a user's network connection and browsing habits can see is that the user is accessing the Tor network or accessing sites through IPs belonging to the Tor network.

Multi-Layered Encryption -- All traffic that passes through the Tor network is encrypted with the help of the Onion protocol.

About the Tor Project:

The Tor Project, Inc., is a nonprofit organization focused on developing free and open-source software to safeguard online privacy and combat tracking, surveillance, and censorship. Their mission is to advance human rights and freedoms through the creation and distribution of anonymity and privacy technologies while promoting their widespread adoption and understanding.

FAQs

Is It Illegal to Use the Tor Browser?

Merely downloading, installing and using the Tor Browser is not illegal. There are many safe and legal uses for Tor. However, some Tor users do so to facilitate illegal online acts.

However, criminals soon found that just using the Tor Browser can bring unwanted attention to their online activities. The NSA and FBI have been known to specifically target Tor users. Internet Service Providers also become interested in your Tor-based online activities, and at least one ISP ::COUGH!:: Comcast! ::COUGH!:: has threatened to cut the service of Tor users.

Can You Use the Tor Browser On a Mobile Device?

Yes, Tor-capable browsers are available for both major mobile platforms, Android and iOS.

Is Tor Browser Safe to Use?

The Tor browser is designed to provide improved online anonymity and security. However, be careful when using the Tor Browser to access the dark web. The dark web is a dangerous place, and all bets are off on your safety.