Can I be tracked while using Tor?

Potentially, yes. Tor greatly enhances anonymity, but if an attacker controls both the entry and exit nodes, they could attempt traffic correlation to link your identity to your activity. You can also be tracked by logging into personal accounts, downloading unsafe files, or modifying browser settings that expose your digital fingerprint. Using Tor with a VPN adds an extra layer of protection by masking your IP from the Tor entry node.

Tor is completely legal in many places, including the U.S., EU, UK, and Australia, but illegal in others, like China and Russia. Due to illicit activities and dark web criminality, anonymous browsing is looked at with suspicion in certain countries. As with VPN legality, you should always check yourself and see if the dark web is legal in your country.

Using Tor and the Tor Browser is considered relatively safe if you use the default security settings, but keep in mind that Tor does not provide end-to-end encryption. Likewise, it will not protect you from common digital threats like malware or phishing attacks. When using Tor, practice good security hygiene by avoiding suspicious links and using reliable antivirus software.

No, Tor is not a VPN. While both tools enhance online privacy, they work differently. Whereas Tor routes your traffic through a decentralized network of encrypted relays, helping to mask your identity, a VPN encrypts your internet connection and tunnels data via a single server. They serve similar goals but use distinct technologies with different benefits.

Are there any Tor alternatives?

There are alternatives to Tor, including the Invisible Internet Project (I2P), Lokinet, and Psiphon. Research what they offer and assess your privacy needs to make a decision about which dark web browser works best for you.

Do you need a VPN if you use Tor?

You don’t technically need a VPN to use Tor, but using one can offer enhanced privacy by hiding Tor usage from your ISP and masking your real IP address from the Tor entry node. This so-called “Tor over VPN” set-up adds an extra layer of security, which can be especially important on monitored or public networks.

How to use Tor: Benefits and risks explained

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