Is Tor Safe? Exploring the Security Risks Posed

February 17, 2023 By Christine Margret 1 Comment 9 minutes

Tor browser enables you to explore the web anonymously and also access the Tor dark web. But despite how alluring this anonymity might seem, there’s still much to know about the browser is Tor safe?

Is TOR Safe

That said, this guide will walk you through comprehensive descriptions of the Tor browser, how it works, ways you can use it, analyze its safety, and wrap up with the importance of using a VPN with Tor.

Note: Tor is best known for its anonymity, making it the safest option for all privacy enthusiasts. But, you can still be tracked online when using the Tor browser. However, you can ensure enhanced security by connecting to FastestVPN. Using Tor with a VPN elevates your digital privacy standards and makes sure you’re never traceable online.

Get FastestVPN

What Is Tor Browser?

Before heading straight to “Is Tor safe? Let’s first understand what the browser is. Tor (The Onion Router) allows you to access the dark web and other sites while maintaining complete user anonymity. It’s known to conceal your identity from the black hats, ISPs, government, or other third parties. While the name may sound strange at first; onion signifies the layers which you, as a user, get to leverage when browsing.

That said, it features various layers of robust encryption, such as an onion. Simply put, the TOR network bounces the data and other global internet requests, disguising your identity. It changes the pathway every time so that the requests are never the same. Following this, it’s almost impossible to track your IP address.

Furthermore, you can access any site without geo-restrictions getting in your way. And, if someone tries to track your ID, they would see a random node’s traffic on the TOR network rather than your computer.

However, is Tor browser safe? Keep reading to find that out.

What Is Tor Actually Used For?

Tor browser is best known for its anonymity. According to Statista, Tor browser users reached a high of almost 7.48 million in September 2023. And, it’s known for its various uses. Here’s what Tor is actually used for:

1. Bypassing Geo-restrictions

While the web may seem accessible, the geo-restrictions are always there. May it be for streaming platforms like Hulu or watching sports events, these limitations result in a restricted experience. This is where the Tor browser steps in.

You can access the geo-restricted sites using the Tor browser and never have the barriers limit your online experience.

2. Access the Tor Dark Web

Accessing the Tor dark web is never advisable. And that’s mostly because your information gets in danger when you access it. However, you can ensure your online anonymity when you access the Tor dark web. But, is Tor browser safe?

3. Whistleblowing on the Web

According to the Tor Project, Edward Snowden used the Tor browser to whistleblow the NSA’s secret mass surveillance program. And this was due to the browser’s anonymity. Using the Tor browser, it was ensured that it would be almost impossible to trace the user.

4. Access Illegal Sites

While considering “is Tor browser safe?” you must know that any browser that opens the entire web for you is never going to be the safest option. Following that, using Tor, you can head to illegal sites and access them without worrying about data theft or your IP address leaking out to the black hats.

5. Enhanced Cybersecurity

While Tor might not be the best tool to ensure elevated cybersecurity standards, it’s still a beneficial step if you’re mainly using it for its anonymity. Using the Tor browser, your IP address doesn’t leak out and you can browse the web without the constant worry of the black hats trying to steal your data.

Is Tor Safe?

Is Tor browser safe? While the browser gains massive popularity for its impressive emphasis on user anonymity, like accessing the Tor dark web, you must remember that you’re never safe on the web. Even when using Tor, sites with .onion extensions use caution.

Moreover, despite all layers of security, the black hats usually find their way in. And, we recommend connecting to FastestVPN and then using Tor for enhanced safety and privacy protection. Doing so will ensure that you’ve double layers of security when using the Tor browser.

How to Use Tor Browser?

Now that you know about “is Tor browser safe?” Here’s how to use it:

Go to Tor Project.
Install the Tor browser on your specific device.
Once installed, open the browser.
Choose Connect.
Wait until you connect. Start browsing once connected.

However, the steps may differ depending on the device you’re using. For that, here are specific guidelines that you must know about:

Tor for Android

You can install the Tor browser on Android via the Google Play Store. Or, you can install the APK file from an APKpure.

Tor for Mac

We recommend against using Tor for Mac due to elevated privacy concerns. This is because Apple requires all web browsers to only use the Webkit code. And, Tor doesn’t use it. And even if you do install it on a Mac, it won’t be as secure to use as other devices.

Tor for iPhone

Similar to Mac, Tor isn’t available for iOS. However, you can opt for an alternative, like the Onion browser. This limitation is due to the iPhone’s limitation on browsers that control the network traffic.

Tor for Linux

It can be slightly challenging to install Tor browser on Linux. We recommend you to follow Tor Project’s tutorial for Linux.

Tor for Ubuntu

Similar to Linux, we recommend you follow the official installation instructions for Ubuntu. These steps will clear out how you can easily download the Tor browser on your Ubuntu device.

What Makes Tor Different From Other Browsers?

Here’s the main difference between Tor and other browsers: the working of Tor. Before exploring “is Tor browser safe?” It’s best to find out about the working of Tor browser.

Unlike other browsers, Tor sends data packets through:

An entry node
A randomized relay node
Randomized exit node

Every node in the network only decrypts a small portion of the data packet to determine the next destination. The exit node handles the final contact with the website you want to visit, thus keeping the source of the request anonymous.

In contrast, regular browsers expose your computer or router’s IP address when you access websites. With Tor Browser, you receive a unique IP address for each session, but the entry nodes can track your browsing IP throughout the session. Moreover, you must know that volunteers operate Tor nodes, which can include malicious links that lead to data theft. Hence, you’ve got the answer to “Is Tor browser safe?”

The Pros and Cons of Using Tor Browser

The Tor browser is not always safe, but there’s a brief list of pros and cons that you must review before deciding:

Pros	Cons
Decentralized Network: There’s no central authority watching over your browsing activities.	The Anonymity Web: Tor might not always conceal your information, and a few sources, like the FBI, use it to crack down on the black hats.
Tor Dark Web: You can visit the Tor dark web or .onion sites, which are often inaccessible to other browsers.	Slower Web Browsing: The browsing speed won’t always be top-notch. You may have to put up with lags.
Open Source Code: You can individually inspect and modify the browser’s code.	Malware and Virus Threats: Due to an open source code and volunteers inserting links, there’s a constant threat of installing malware on your device.
Onion Encryption: Tor features multiple layers of encryption similar to an onion’s.	Criminal Engagement: Tor entertains various users who want anonymity for online theft and fraud, making Tor an ideal platform.

Can You Still Be Tracked Using Tor Browser?

The chances are slightly low, but yes, they’re there. You can be tracked online when using the Tor browser because your ISP already knows you’re using Tor. Moreover, when you enter your personal details on a site, you give a clear hint about your identity and third parties may track your browsing activities.

Furthermore, if you’re not using an in-built PDF viewer, that raises the flag for being tracked online. Due to these reasons, we recommend connecting to a VPN beforehand. That said, the following section comprehensively describes how using a VPN ensures digital anonymity.

Do I Still Need a VPN if I Use Tor?

When considering is tor browser safe, it is, but the cons are still there. And you can elevate cybersecurity standards by using a VPN. The Tor browser only offers you anonymity since the browser session passes through the volunteer-run servers. However, the volunteer-run servers also mean that there’s a hidden risk of unintendedly installing malware on your device.

That’s where a VPN steps in. Connecting to a VPN, all your browsing data routes through an encrypted tunnel. For example, when using FastestVPN, you get to leverage military-grade encryption, which makes it extremely challenging for the black hats to intercept the network and steal your data.

With both options active, it is almost impossible to fall prey to the hackers. Following that, here’s how you can setup FastestVPN:

Go to FastestVPN > Pricing.
Subscribe to a VPN plan.
Install the app on your device.
Once installed, open the app and log in.
Connect to a server.
Use the Tor browser.

FAQs

Can you be tracked on Tor?

Yes, you can be easily tracked on Tor’s entry and exit nodes. Anyone who is running these nodes can see your traffic and real IP address.

Is Tor safe in 2023?

Overall Tor is a safe and secure browser to use in 2023, it encrypts your traffic and keeps you anonymous online. Still, it has vulnerabilities and it is not a 100% secure web browser.

Is Tor legal?

Using the Tor browser is legal in many countries. However, Tor also hosts illegal content and that’s the reason that makes your IP address suspicious while using Tor. You should always connect to a VPN just like FastestVPN for Tor to protect your IP address and online activities from your ISP and other intruders on Tor.

Is Tor safe without VPN?

Tor entry and exit nodes are not encrypted and can expose your IP address to the one who is operating these nodes. However, using a VPN with Tor can protect your IP address on these vulnerable nodes. Overall, Tor is a secure web browser and keeps you anonymous online.

Is Tor a dark web?

Tor is not the dark web, but it can be considered part of the dark web. Tor is a special browser to access darknet websites. Tor browser is mostly used by dark web users. However, Tor can also be used by general users who want to maintain their online privacy and anonymity.

Is Tor better than a VPN?

It depends on your needs. Tor is great for transmitting sensitive information only, but it slows down your overall speed. However, with a VPN you can be private, secure, and anonymous without compromising speed. So, in my view, a VPN is a better solution for general users than TOR.

Is Tor safer than Chrome?

Tor is safer than Chrome due to the former’s focus on user privacy and security. However, the latter focuses on speed, and it also features cookies to save information for quicker access. Hence, lower guards for your digital security.

Is Tor safe without VPN?

Tor is generally safe without a VPN. However, there are drawbacks as well, which can make you prone to cyber threats. For this, we recommend you connect to a reliable VPN, like the FastestVPN for enhanced cyber security even when using the Tor browser.

Can Tor Browser be detected?

Not always, instead, there can be a few instances where you can be tracked when using the Tor browser. For example, when filling out forms or logging in with credentials, you can be detected using the Tor browser.

Is Tor safer than VPN?

Tor and VPN serve different purposes. Tor browser offers highest level of user anonymity and privacy. Whereas a VPN are about rerouting your browser information and offering encryption as a cybersecurity tool. For example, while using Tor, we recommend you to remain connected to FastestVPN.

Is Tor safer than Google?

Although both Chrome and Tor Browser receive frequent security updates, Tor Browser is typically viewed as more secure because it prioritizes privacy and anonymity.

Final Note

Is Tor browser safe? Yes, Tor is a safe browser to use in 2023, but it is not 100% secure. You should use a VPN with Tor to protect your digital identity because TOR’s entry and exit nodes are not encrypted and can leak your original IP address to anyone who is operating these nodes. FastestVPN is a good VPN to use with Tor, and it maximizes your online security from the left, right, and center.