![Surplus Anti-Tank missiles hitting the dark web. [1024x512 - 294KB]](https://pic8.co/sh/NgEk8s.png){kind=link}
For a friend…
Using Tor browser, do you also need a vpn activated?
And can you do that from your normal Mac computer or would you want to run through a VM?
Yes and No.
VPNs hide your traffic from YOUR ISP, but the VPN itself can still see your traffic.
Sure, they might claim they don't but there is no guarantee.
I recommend installing a whole different OS on an USB instead of using a Virtual Machine, TAILS OS is a personal favorite, but I recommend you look more into it and make your own choice. Having a virtual machine running on windows kinda defeats the whole purpose.
Remember Tor doesn't actually make you invisible as some might think, it just masks your identity with someone's else, essentially hiding your true identity. Also Tor won't protect you from yourself, by that I mean, don't make stupid decisions online.
Got it. So Tor browser VPN optional but not necessary.
If you start spending a lot of time in the dark web, I recommend a purpose built laptop. Specifically something used bought with cash, the hard drive removed. You can boot tails using certain USB sticks and sandbox the USB so that no unknown files can be installed on your device.
There is a lot of debate about vpns, I was advised NOT to use one. Things may be different now.
Also you may want to access the dark web when nobody else is using your internet network.
Tor over vpn can rarely but sometimes expose your mac address so most users just use Tor by itself. It has to do with IPV6 settings. Can use Tails which boots from a usb or live cd...
You don't need a VPN to use it. You might want one if you're buying illegal shit though. VM isn't strictly necessary but the same advice applies there too.
Best thing as far as I know.
Build and install your own VPN on a shared cloud server
That way you know that there is no logging enabled
(post is archived)