Essential security practices for safe browsing on Tor networks
The dark web contains illegal content and dangerous actors. Following these guidelines doesn't guarantee complete safety. Use common sense and know the laws in your jurisdiction.
Download Tor Browser from the official website: torproject.org
Don't use regular browsers like Chrome or Firefox to access .onion sites. They won't work and you'll compromise your privacy.
Check the digital signature before installing. The Tor Project website provides instructions. This confirms you got the real software, not a modified version with malware.
Update Tor Browser when prompted. Security patches matter. Old versions have known vulnerabilities that can expose you.
Don't log into personal accounts. Don't use your real name, email, or any information that connects to you. Create completely separate identities for dark web use.
Keep it at default size. Unique window dimensions can fingerprint and track you. Tor warns you about this for a reason.
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Security Level → Set to "Safest"
This disables JavaScript on all sites. Some sites won't work properly, but you'll be much safer.
Physical tape works. Malicious sites can attempt to access your camera. Don't rely on software controls alone.
VPN → Tor → Internet adds a layer. Your ISP sees you're using a VPN, not Tor. The VPN doesn't see what you're doing.
Choose VPNs with no-logs policies: Mullvad, ProtonVPN, or IVPN. Avoid free VPNs.
BitTorrent will leak your real IP address. Tor isn't built for it. If you need to download large files, use other methods.
Use your home connection or a trusted network. Public WiFi adds attack vectors. If you must use it, ensure your VPN is active first.
Use trusted directories like this one. Type addresses carefully - one wrong character takes you somewhere else. Bookmark legitimate sites.
Many fake sites mimic real ones. Check URLs character by character. Dark web sites can't use normal certificates, making phishing easier.
Treat every link as suspicious. Forums and chat rooms often contain malicious links. Think before clicking.
JavaScript enables tracking and attacks. The "Safest" security level handles this, but you can also use NoScript settings for fine control.
No real names, locations, phone numbers, or identifying details. Assume everything you post is permanent and traceable.
Services like ProtonMail or Tutanota work on Tor. Better yet, use Tor-specific email services. Never use your regular email address.
Don't reuse usernames from the regular internet. Don't connect different dark web accounts. Each identity should be isolated.
Tor Browser deletes cookies when you close it. Don't disable this feature. Start fresh each session.
Bitcoin isn't anonymous - it's pseudonymous. Every transaction is public. Use coin mixing services or privacy coins like Monero for better anonymity.
Credit cards directly identify you. If a site asks for credit card information on Tor, it's either a scam or honeypot.
Check vendor reviews on forums. Use escrow when available. Expect scams - they're common. If a deal looks too good, it probably is.
Law enforcement monitors major marketplaces. Many have been taken down. Vendors can be undercover agents. Think twice before transacting.
Files can contain malware or tracking code. PDF files can be especially dangerous. If you must download, scan everything and open in isolated environments.
Extensions can track you and break Tor's privacy. Flash, Java, and other plugins are dangerous. Tor Browser disables them by default - keep it that way.
Child exploitation material is heavily monitored and tracked. Accessing it is illegal worldwide. Many sites are law enforcement honeypots.
Use separate browser sessions. Don't switch between Tor and normal browsing for related activities. Keep your identities completely separate.
Scammers, hackers, and law enforcement all operate on the dark web. Verify everything. Trust nothing. Assume the worst.
Tails is a complete operating system that runs from USB and leaves no trace. It routes all connections through Tor automatically. Recommended for serious privacy needs.
Run Tor Browser inside a VM using Whonix or similar. This isolates your Tor activities from your main system. Malware can't escape the VM easily.
When sites offer it, use 2FA. Use app-based authentication, not SMS. This protects accounts even if passwords are compromised.
Operational security means thinking about metadata, patterns, and behavior. Don't access Tor at predictable times. Vary your routine. Think like someone trying to track you.
In most countries, using Tor Browser is completely legal. Journalists, activists, and privacy-conscious people use it daily.
Accessing or distributing illegal content is illegal regardless of the browser you use. Child exploitation, weapons trafficking, and drug distribution are prosecuted aggressively.
Laws vary by country. Some nations restrict Tor use. Research local laws. Using Tor in restricted countries can have serious consequences.
FBI, Europol, and other agencies actively monitor and operate on the dark web. Many major marketplaces have been taken down. Assume surveillance.
Close Tor Browser immediately. Disconnect from the internet. Change passwords on a clean machine. Consider your device compromised and scan for malware.
Disconnect from the internet. Don't try to remove it yourself - you might trigger it. Boot from a live USB and scan. Consider wiping the system.
Don't pay. Paying confirms you're a target. Contact local authorities. Blackmail is illegal everywhere. Save all evidence.
Report to FBI's IC3 (ic3.gov) or equivalent in your country. You can report anonymously. Don't engage with the content or try to investigate yourself.
The dark web has legitimate uses: privacy, free speech, whistleblowing, and avoiding censorship. Stay safe by being cautious, informed, and skeptical.
Remember: perfect anonymity doesn't exist. Every action leaves traces. Use good judgment and understand the risks before proceeding.