The Tor network is well known for it's function as a way to conceal your identity on the Internet. This is not the same as the various tracking protections offered by the most popular browsers. The Tor Browser actually conceals your identity and makes it very difficult for anyone (including your ISP) to intercept what you are sending and receiving over the public network. This browser can be used on your normal computer (Windows, Linux, or Mac) and will not affect any other browsers you may be using, or it can be installed to a USB memory stick to make it truly portable. Be sure to read the installation instructions for details.
I tested it out and it looks a lot like Firefox without all the frills. The response time is slower than what I expected, but considering what Tor is doing, encryption and all, it's acceptable. If you're going to use this to conduct secure financial transactions over the Internet, the financial institution (or other web site), may ask you to prove it's really you. They can't tell via the normal means. It's a small inconvenience for being safe rather than sorry.
TOR BROWSER: https://www.torproject.org/projects/tor ... en#windows
Tor Browser
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
It's excellent for securing financial transactions, as you say - or appears to be, for now, but because of it's reputation and what goes on within the dark bowels of it, I think a lot of people're scared to use it.
When I first had it installed, the on-screen set-up looked easy enough, but I couldn't use it! I got myself into a right mess. I suppose you found it much easier than I did, but, I have to ask, that if they ask for proof of identity, which seems only sensible, could that in itself be "used" - i.e. stolen - by those who run it?
When I first had it installed, the on-screen set-up looked easy enough, but I couldn't use it! I got myself into a right mess. I suppose you found it much easier than I did, but, I have to ask, that if they ask for proof of identity, which seems only sensible, could that in itself be "used" - i.e. stolen - by those who run it?
Re: Tor Browser
Perhaps I wasn't too clear about what I meant. 
There are several aspects to secure communication over the internet. Two of the major issues are encryption and identity verification.
The best way to hide your messages is to assure they are encrypted from your computer to the receiving computer, or end-to-end encryption. The Tor browser does encrypt your transmissions, but the encryption stops at the other end of the Tor network. The link between Tor and the target computer needs to be secured by the receiving party if true end-to-end encryption is to be established. This unencrypted network leg from the Tor servers to the destination computer usually doesn't matter (unless you are a spy or terrorist) because your identity is not known at that point. All that appears there is your transmission data. It could belong to anyone as far as a snoop is concerned. However, using HTTPS instead of regular HTTP will provide true end-to-end encryption. Most financial institutions do that.
So ... when your bank, for example, receives your request for service from the Tor network, your bank does not know with certainty who you are. You logged into their servers with your name and password, but they do not (and cannot) have your Tor identity on file. Thus, the bank will revert to a two factor authentication in order to be certain it's actually you trying to get into your account. They will ask secret questions that you previously gave them the answers to, AND they will send a confirmation code to your e-mail, text message device, or landline of record. Only the person who actually created the account would have all that information.
There is virtually no risk in all this proof of identity over the Tor network because it's been prearranged with you and your bank at the time you set up your account. They may request this two factor authentication only when you log into your account from a computer they do not recognize you using in the past. While it's safe to do all this on the Tor network, the bank must store this secret information in their own database. It is those databases which hackers like to attack.
Setting up the Tor browser is a no-brainer. There is no set up. Download the program and install it. It's preconfigured so that you have to do nothing but use it. There are other more sophisticated ways to go about all this, and I agree that they can be a bit challenging. But, this browser is so simple that it's hard to make a mistake. You will have to be careful how you use the browser so that you don't break it's built in security. They give you guidelines for that purpose. Read them and follow them strictly.
The only down side to all this hiding of your identity is that your government (and mine) will key off the fact that you are indeed hiding your identity and consequently may track your Internet activity. They may not know the content of what you are sending over the Internet because it's encrypted, but they do have the capability to know you are hiding.
There are several aspects to secure communication over the internet. Two of the major issues are encryption and identity verification.
The best way to hide your messages is to assure they are encrypted from your computer to the receiving computer, or end-to-end encryption. The Tor browser does encrypt your transmissions, but the encryption stops at the other end of the Tor network. The link between Tor and the target computer needs to be secured by the receiving party if true end-to-end encryption is to be established. This unencrypted network leg from the Tor servers to the destination computer usually doesn't matter (unless you are a spy or terrorist) because your identity is not known at that point. All that appears there is your transmission data. It could belong to anyone as far as a snoop is concerned. However, using HTTPS instead of regular HTTP will provide true end-to-end encryption. Most financial institutions do that.
So ... when your bank, for example, receives your request for service from the Tor network, your bank does not know with certainty who you are. You logged into their servers with your name and password, but they do not (and cannot) have your Tor identity on file. Thus, the bank will revert to a two factor authentication in order to be certain it's actually you trying to get into your account. They will ask secret questions that you previously gave them the answers to, AND they will send a confirmation code to your e-mail, text message device, or landline of record. Only the person who actually created the account would have all that information.
There is virtually no risk in all this proof of identity over the Tor network because it's been prearranged with you and your bank at the time you set up your account. They may request this two factor authentication only when you log into your account from a computer they do not recognize you using in the past. While it's safe to do all this on the Tor network, the bank must store this secret information in their own database. It is those databases which hackers like to attack.
Setting up the Tor browser is a no-brainer. There is no set up. Download the program and install it. It's preconfigured so that you have to do nothing but use it. There are other more sophisticated ways to go about all this, and I agree that they can be a bit challenging. But, this browser is so simple that it's hard to make a mistake. You will have to be careful how you use the browser so that you don't break it's built in security. They give you guidelines for that purpose. Read them and follow them strictly.
The only down side to all this hiding of your identity is that your government (and mine) will key off the fact that you are indeed hiding your identity and consequently may track your Internet activity. They may not know the content of what you are sending over the Internet because it's encrypted, but they do have the capability to know you are hiding.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
Thank you Yogi. At least PART of that made sense to me, and yes, I know that government bodies are able to tell if someone's hiding, as can others. I'm sure they can access the content of a lot of encrypted identities/messages as well, but unless they're looking for specific criminal activity - or stumble across it - I think the browser's safe for most people. It's just unfortunate that it's used by paedophiles, drug dealers, extreme porn viewing and you name it, but then, why MIGHT a straight "average" person use it, unless for financial transactions? My reason was for total privacy, which I believe we all have a right to
I was interested in it when I read about it, and got my techie friend to explain as best he could, considering who was asking the questions! LOL. Then he installed it and was clicking onto this and that, and I lost track of what he was trying to show me (of course!). Even so, I wanted a go, but left to my own devices, I seemed unable to access anything. I don't know what I was doing wrong. I couldn't access google, for instance. I wasn't about to browse anything wrong, but just testing what I could, and couldn't do, but it was hopeless! I just thought that it'd be safer if I used TOR, from a security point of view - if that makes sense! : (
Why couldn't I browse? Did I need to log a password with them or something?
I was interested in it when I read about it, and got my techie friend to explain as best he could, considering who was asking the questions! LOL. Then he installed it and was clicking onto this and that, and I lost track of what he was trying to show me (of course!). Even so, I wanted a go, but left to my own devices, I seemed unable to access anything. I don't know what I was doing wrong. I couldn't access google, for instance. I wasn't about to browse anything wrong, but just testing what I could, and couldn't do, but it was hopeless! I just thought that it'd be safer if I used TOR, from a security point of view - if that makes sense! : (
Why couldn't I browse? Did I need to log a password with them or something?
Re: Tor Browser
I installed the Tor browser onto my desktop computer and onto a USB memory stick. From the stick version I logged into here and did a few things. I did a few Google searches and even looked up a porn site (don't ask) to be sure things were working properly. I also looked at the weather channel which has failed to display via any secure software I've used in the past. Aside from the slight delay in responses (due to encryption I presume) there was no noticeable difference between the Tor browser and Firefox. In fact Tor uses the Firefox browser engine.
It is possible that certain web sites will not let you view their content if you are doing it anonymously from a proxy server. A few specifically ban Tor. You will have difficulties with those few sites, but upward of 90% of what you normally view will be viewable unimpeded with this Tor browser. Of course I don't know why you had difficulty in the past. But, I'd be glad to help you through this browsing experience if you need it. I don't think you will need help, and I am aware of your experiences with technology.
Many websites are becoming increasingly sensitive to snooping by the government and others. They have switched to using https as a countermeasure. This protocol provides end to end encryption of your data, but it does not give you the anonymity that the Tor network does. You don't need to explain why you want to be anonymous on the Internet. Many people do and more will go that rout in the future. From what I have seen in the past, this Tor browser is an easy to use and safe way to browse anonymously. You might want to do what I'm doing. I use a regular browser (four in fact) for the bulk of my web surfing. Anything that involves exchange of information I want to keep secure will be done using the Tor browser. I actually have an entire operating system which is even more secure, but that's a whole different subject for discussion.
It is possible that certain web sites will not let you view their content if you are doing it anonymously from a proxy server. A few specifically ban Tor. You will have difficulties with those few sites, but upward of 90% of what you normally view will be viewable unimpeded with this Tor browser. Of course I don't know why you had difficulty in the past. But, I'd be glad to help you through this browsing experience if you need it. I don't think you will need help, and I am aware of your experiences with technology.
Many websites are becoming increasingly sensitive to snooping by the government and others. They have switched to using https as a countermeasure. This protocol provides end to end encryption of your data, but it does not give you the anonymity that the Tor network does. You don't need to explain why you want to be anonymous on the Internet. Many people do and more will go that rout in the future. From what I have seen in the past, this Tor browser is an easy to use and safe way to browse anonymously. You might want to do what I'm doing. I use a regular browser (four in fact) for the bulk of my web surfing. Anything that involves exchange of information I want to keep secure will be done using the Tor browser. I actually have an entire operating system which is even more secure, but that's a whole different subject for discussion.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
For now, our security seems good, but goodness knows why I couldn't get onto google. It was just out of curiosity really, but I haven't been able to use TOR in the way I'd expected.
Whether it was because a sophisticated security programme'd been installed on my computer prior to me wanting to try TOR out, I don't know. Might this've blocked my attempts? I can't explain what I mean properly, but I didn't browse, because it wouldn't let me!
I think it's now been uninstalled anyway, but I wouldn't mind putting it back, and then seeing if things're different now. If I did that, I could tell you what I was seeing, and maybe you'd be able to tell ME if I was doing something wrong. It confused me, to say the least! It was left on my desktop so that I was a click away from looking at it again, but I forget exactly what came up when I did. All I know, is that I kept clicking back to Firefox, and then Chrome, and back to TOR again, but it seemed to be preventing me from browsing at all. I couldn't understand what was wrong, when I'd seen it working when our friend was here.
I don't want to use it for anything illicit, but just to TEST it out'd be nice. : (
Sorry - it's 2. 24 a.m., and I'm being even more unclear than usual, but if you can read between the lines, it might make a bit of sense to you.
Whether it was because a sophisticated security programme'd been installed on my computer prior to me wanting to try TOR out, I don't know. Might this've blocked my attempts? I can't explain what I mean properly, but I didn't browse, because it wouldn't let me!
I think it's now been uninstalled anyway, but I wouldn't mind putting it back, and then seeing if things're different now. If I did that, I could tell you what I was seeing, and maybe you'd be able to tell ME if I was doing something wrong. It confused me, to say the least! It was left on my desktop so that I was a click away from looking at it again, but I forget exactly what came up when I did. All I know, is that I kept clicking back to Firefox, and then Chrome, and back to TOR again, but it seemed to be preventing me from browsing at all. I couldn't understand what was wrong, when I'd seen it working when our friend was here.
I don't want to use it for anything illicit, but just to TEST it out'd be nice. : (
Sorry - it's 2. 24 a.m., and I'm being even more unclear than usual, but if you can read between the lines, it might make a bit of sense to you.
Re: Tor Browser
I might be reading your posts incorrectly, but, I have a feeling that we could be talking about two slightly different things, the Tor Network verses the Tor Browser. You obviously have a curious mind and are quite capable of understanding things if explained properly. With that in mind I offer you THIS LINK from the Tor Organization. It's a fairly easy to understand overview of how the Tor Network works and why you might want to use it guilt free. 
Essentially Tor is a network of servers that doesn't keep track of who you are. Furthermore, while your data is on the Tor network it is encrypted. Making all that work is no simple task in spite of the way the concepts are explained in the overview. It used to be that only hackers, both the good and the bad kind, were the only people who had the skill and determination to configure and use the Tor network. But that is no longer the case. These days using the Tor network is as simple as using a browser you already are familiar with, i.e., the Tor Browser. The good people at the Tor organization took Mozilla's Firefox browser and made a few internal changes. In other words, they did all those things the hackers from the old days would have to do. This Tor Browser can and should be used as is for the most part, but there are some tweaks you can apply. Add-ons and extensions are not recommended so that on that basis alone the browser is easier to use and less prone to failure. The bottom line is that everything you need to use the Tor network is already installed and configured in the browser they offer.
The Tor browser is a stand alone piece of software. That means it will work without being registered by your Windows software. This is typically called a "portable" version in that you can actually install it on a USB memory stick, for example, and plug it into any computer when you want to use it. You also can install it on your own laptop or desktop where it's all put into one folder that can easily be removed. There is no evidence other than it's presence that the Tor browser was ever installed or used on your computer, if that matters. For your experiments, I'd recommend installing it to a laptop/desktop first. It's more familiar and slightly faster when done that way.
I'm at a disadvantage by not knowing what kind of security your friend installed into your home system, but it would be hard for me to believe that whatever he did would prohibit you from hiding your identity. The fact that you witnessed him using the "Tor" network (whatever that was at the time) is a good sign. That means my assumptions are likely correct. Thus, all you need to do is download the Tor Browser and install it. It will create an icon on your desktop so that it will be easy for you to find and use the software. Click on the icon and you're done. The Tor Browser will open up on it's default home page and you can go about browsing as usual from there. There is no need to open or use any other browser. In fact if you want to remain anonymous don't use anything but the Tor Browser. For experimental purposes all you are interested in is to see if the Tor Browser works on your home network. I'd be surprised if it does not. Once you have it going, then try browsing to a few of the regular websites you normally visit. I know we will not reject an inquiry from the Tor network, but some places might. My point is that using the Tor Browser was made simple and available to anyone who wants it. I see no reason why you should be denied, but will be happy to walk you though it if you need an assist.
Essentially Tor is a network of servers that doesn't keep track of who you are. Furthermore, while your data is on the Tor network it is encrypted. Making all that work is no simple task in spite of the way the concepts are explained in the overview. It used to be that only hackers, both the good and the bad kind, were the only people who had the skill and determination to configure and use the Tor network. But that is no longer the case. These days using the Tor network is as simple as using a browser you already are familiar with, i.e., the Tor Browser. The good people at the Tor organization took Mozilla's Firefox browser and made a few internal changes. In other words, they did all those things the hackers from the old days would have to do. This Tor Browser can and should be used as is for the most part, but there are some tweaks you can apply. Add-ons and extensions are not recommended so that on that basis alone the browser is easier to use and less prone to failure. The bottom line is that everything you need to use the Tor network is already installed and configured in the browser they offer.
The Tor browser is a stand alone piece of software. That means it will work without being registered by your Windows software. This is typically called a "portable" version in that you can actually install it on a USB memory stick, for example, and plug it into any computer when you want to use it. You also can install it on your own laptop or desktop where it's all put into one folder that can easily be removed. There is no evidence other than it's presence that the Tor browser was ever installed or used on your computer, if that matters. For your experiments, I'd recommend installing it to a laptop/desktop first. It's more familiar and slightly faster when done that way.
I'm at a disadvantage by not knowing what kind of security your friend installed into your home system, but it would be hard for me to believe that whatever he did would prohibit you from hiding your identity. The fact that you witnessed him using the "Tor" network (whatever that was at the time) is a good sign. That means my assumptions are likely correct. Thus, all you need to do is download the Tor Browser and install it. It will create an icon on your desktop so that it will be easy for you to find and use the software. Click on the icon and you're done. The Tor Browser will open up on it's default home page and you can go about browsing as usual from there. There is no need to open or use any other browser. In fact if you want to remain anonymous don't use anything but the Tor Browser. For experimental purposes all you are interested in is to see if the Tor Browser works on your home network. I'd be surprised if it does not. Once you have it going, then try browsing to a few of the regular websites you normally visit. I know we will not reject an inquiry from the Tor network, but some places might. My point is that using the Tor Browser was made simple and available to anyone who wants it. I see no reason why you should be denied, but will be happy to walk you though it if you need an assist.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
Right ... thank you.
I'm going to have another go at it, but not today. My head's too full of all the Christmas stuff. I wish I could've explained to you what happened, exactly. As far as I know, the Tor browser was installed, and I had an icon which could simply be clicked onto to connect, but .... I don't know if, despite that still being visible on my desktop, it'd been disabled in some way after first having a look. I'm not intelligent enough about these things to even explain it properly! Oh dear, but yes, things like that DO interest me, despite me not having much of a clue about how everything works.
The security which our friend installed, entailed him using a programme which he devised himself, and which his company sells abroad and to security forces here. It's extremely expensive, and to me, incredibly complex. His whole life involves online security, so he knows exactly what he's doing, but I don't. It's embarrassing when he speaks to me in techie terms. What's every-day language to him, is like an alien one to me. I try to take on board what I'm told, but in the next breath, it's gone out of my head again, leaving me to wonder what the heck he was on about! I shouldn't even be on this forum, I'm so dense, but you've personally done your best to help me with any "problems", and I truly appreciate that because although things might've taken me time to do, I've followed your instructions and more-or-less got there in the end. My own sons laugh at me. Their freind's parents seem to manage OK., but me ... comprehension doesn't seem to be there at all! : )
I'm going to have another go at it, but not today. My head's too full of all the Christmas stuff. I wish I could've explained to you what happened, exactly. As far as I know, the Tor browser was installed, and I had an icon which could simply be clicked onto to connect, but .... I don't know if, despite that still being visible on my desktop, it'd been disabled in some way after first having a look. I'm not intelligent enough about these things to even explain it properly! Oh dear, but yes, things like that DO interest me, despite me not having much of a clue about how everything works.
The security which our friend installed, entailed him using a programme which he devised himself, and which his company sells abroad and to security forces here. It's extremely expensive, and to me, incredibly complex. His whole life involves online security, so he knows exactly what he's doing, but I don't. It's embarrassing when he speaks to me in techie terms. What's every-day language to him, is like an alien one to me. I try to take on board what I'm told, but in the next breath, it's gone out of my head again, leaving me to wonder what the heck he was on about! I shouldn't even be on this forum, I'm so dense, but you've personally done your best to help me with any "problems", and I truly appreciate that because although things might've taken me time to do, I've followed your instructions and more-or-less got there in the end. My own sons laugh at me. Their freind's parents seem to manage OK., but me ... comprehension doesn't seem to be there at all! : )
Re: Tor Browser
It's possible that the Tor Browser is installed on your computer and you don't know where it is at. In that case you can use the search box in the start menu (Lower left corner) to search for the "Tor Browser." The program I'm suggesting you download will run even if there is another instance of it installed on your computer. As I said above, it's a stand alone program and needs no other software to run other than Windows itself. Thus you can safely download the program and try to use it.
It's also possible that your security software is preventing you from using certain programs. That may be a good idea in some cases, but it's counter productive if it's preventing you from using your own computer the way you would like to use it. You can ask your friend directly if his software is possibly causing problems. Should he say you can run the Tor Browser, then ask him to write out instructions you could follow later on. Again, the security software might be a good idea in theory, but you also need to be able to do things without having to call tech support.
And ... I'll hear none of your excuses about being intimidated or dense when it comes to computers. The truth is you ARE in this forum because it interests you. My advice to you is that "where there is a will there is a way." Plus, I'm willing to help when you don't understand something. That's our mission here, in fact, to answer questions and give technical assistance. The only way that can be done is if questions are asked. We are all friends here and have a good idea about each others' capabilities. It's OK to feel frustrated, but don't go feeling dumb, because you are not.
It's also possible that your security software is preventing you from using certain programs. That may be a good idea in some cases, but it's counter productive if it's preventing you from using your own computer the way you would like to use it. You can ask your friend directly if his software is possibly causing problems. Should he say you can run the Tor Browser, then ask him to write out instructions you could follow later on. Again, the security software might be a good idea in theory, but you also need to be able to do things without having to call tech support.
And ... I'll hear none of your excuses about being intimidated or dense when it comes to computers. The truth is you ARE in this forum because it interests you. My advice to you is that "where there is a will there is a way." Plus, I'm willing to help when you don't understand something. That's our mission here, in fact, to answer questions and give technical assistance. The only way that can be done is if questions are asked. We are all friends here and have a good idea about each others' capabilities. It's OK to feel frustrated, but don't go feeling dumb, because you are not.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
Well thank you Yogi. I'm going to look at things more closely when I get a bit more time. The TOR icon isn't on this computer now, nor showing in any of the programmes, which I assume it would if it was there? I was referring to trying to use it when it was put onto my old machine, but I'd like to look at it again and just browse something to see what it's like - although it's probably not much different to browsing on Firefox or whatever! I shall definitely download it once all the rush of Christmas dies down a bit. Don't ask me why I have it in my mind to do so! LOL, I haven't a clue. I read about things, or someone mentions something, and my ears prick up.
Having said that, you're too generous with saying I'm not dumb. With techical and mechanical things, I seem to be the world's worst, and come out in a sweat at the thought of trying these things out. I can remember when our friend was ... oh dear ... exporting files??? He was looking at something remotely, then making me do things myself. It took absolutely ages, and I literally felt sick! I have a mental block when it comes to understanding even the most seemingly simple things, and thank you again, you HAVE been very helpful, but I want to know all sorts of things and don't like to ask! The world can read in and see what a dunce I am, and no matter what you kindly say, my ineptitude's obvious! : (
It's weird isn't it? I can grasp medical things easily, historical facts, write formal letters with ease, and yet when it comes to computers, I'm finished. It's pathetic when even an 8 year old knows more than I do (our friend's son, who's already developed his own simple programme!).
Despite all this, I DO have an interest in certain technical things, even though I can't actually grasp them properly. I think this forum's pretty good from that point of view, so read it now and again, and have to admit that it's been helpful at times, or made me read stuff more closely when something's tweaked my interest. I just can't go beyond the level of curiosity very well!
Having said that, you're too generous with saying I'm not dumb. With techical and mechanical things, I seem to be the world's worst, and come out in a sweat at the thought of trying these things out. I can remember when our friend was ... oh dear ... exporting files??? He was looking at something remotely, then making me do things myself. It took absolutely ages, and I literally felt sick! I have a mental block when it comes to understanding even the most seemingly simple things, and thank you again, you HAVE been very helpful, but I want to know all sorts of things and don't like to ask! The world can read in and see what a dunce I am, and no matter what you kindly say, my ineptitude's obvious! : (
It's weird isn't it? I can grasp medical things easily, historical facts, write formal letters with ease, and yet when it comes to computers, I'm finished. It's pathetic when even an 8 year old knows more than I do (our friend's son, who's already developed his own simple programme!).
Despite all this, I DO have an interest in certain technical things, even though I can't actually grasp them properly. I think this forum's pretty good from that point of view, so read it now and again, and have to admit that it's been helpful at times, or made me read stuff more closely when something's tweaked my interest. I just can't go beyond the level of curiosity very well!
Re: Tor Browser
I appreciate your feelings about computers and certain technical things. Since I was a child I had an interest in the brain and figured I'd be a brain surgeon or world class psychologist when I grew up. Reality was not kind to me and working directly with people's brains never happened, but the concept of artificial intelligence was alluring and feasible to pursue. Computers are fashioned after human minds and there is an entire science of cybernetics melding the two together. When I discovered I could program these machines, it was the realization of my childhood aspiration applied to a mechanical world.
Perhaps I've not mentioned it in the past, but I failed at university. Anything math oriented was impossible for me to grasp because it was not logical, which ruled out any degree in engineering. But, my mind was still curious after that disaster. What you see today is pretty much the product of self-education and a lot of people along the way willing to help me when I asked for it. I had the opportunity to teach and train ordinary factory workers in the use of computers to do their work. Few had any experience whatsoever, and many of them spoke English as a second language. I don't recall any instance where a person could not learn their assigned task which you might be tempted to say was due to my patience as a teacher. However, the success of their efforts was directly due to their willingness to learn and ask questions.
I don't see you as having a dire need to understand computers. The ability to use them seems to be quite enough for you. However there have been successes between you and I, and we are at least 6000 miles apart. Thus I know you have the capability underneath those fears of being intimidated by this technology. It's truly not necessary to understand computers in order to benefit from using them, but the extra dimension in your experience that comes with going beyond robotic motions is alluring. I certainly understand how you would not want to announce to the world how dumb you are in this field, but your sweat is a product of emotion not a lack of ability. Keep in mind that old saw, "The only stupid question is the one gone unasked."
Once you try using the Tor browser you will discover how easy it is. In fact I'd guess your experience will be anti-climatic. LOL The differences between the open Internet and the Tor network are between subtle and invisible to the average user. You will note some cosmetic differences and perhaps some web sites that will be reluctant to show you their wares. But using the browser itself is just like using Firefox. You will have nothing to learn if you already use Firefox. I expect you will walk away from it with a feeling of accomplishment, but wondering what it is that makes this method of browsing so popular. Then you will realize that you did it all anonymously. I can hear the mental gears turning already.
Perhaps I've not mentioned it in the past, but I failed at university. Anything math oriented was impossible for me to grasp because it was not logical, which ruled out any degree in engineering. But, my mind was still curious after that disaster. What you see today is pretty much the product of self-education and a lot of people along the way willing to help me when I asked for it. I had the opportunity to teach and train ordinary factory workers in the use of computers to do their work. Few had any experience whatsoever, and many of them spoke English as a second language. I don't recall any instance where a person could not learn their assigned task which you might be tempted to say was due to my patience as a teacher. However, the success of their efforts was directly due to their willingness to learn and ask questions.
I don't see you as having a dire need to understand computers. The ability to use them seems to be quite enough for you. However there have been successes between you and I, and we are at least 6000 miles apart. Thus I know you have the capability underneath those fears of being intimidated by this technology. It's truly not necessary to understand computers in order to benefit from using them, but the extra dimension in your experience that comes with going beyond robotic motions is alluring. I certainly understand how you would not want to announce to the world how dumb you are in this field, but your sweat is a product of emotion not a lack of ability. Keep in mind that old saw, "The only stupid question is the one gone unasked."
Once you try using the Tor browser you will discover how easy it is. In fact I'd guess your experience will be anti-climatic. LOL The differences between the open Internet and the Tor network are between subtle and invisible to the average user. You will note some cosmetic differences and perhaps some web sites that will be reluctant to show you their wares. But using the browser itself is just like using Firefox. You will have nothing to learn if you already use Firefox. I expect you will walk away from it with a feeling of accomplishment, but wondering what it is that makes this method of browsing so popular. Then you will realize that you did it all anonymously. I can hear the mental gears turning already.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
LOl - thank you so much.
Can you just tell me about the TOR bundles? I don't know which one I'd need - if any "bundle" at all? Obviously the browser has to work with the Windows 7 I'm using, but I've only had a quick look and seen where they're OK to use with XP etc., and Windows 7 wasn't mentioned (or perhaps I missed it with not reading it all properly). Sometime after Christmas, I definitely want to see if I like the feel of it, but that's all really. I'm not about to try and do anything untoward - just out of curiosity. If I manage to browse SOMETHING, however feeble, you're right - lol - I''ll have a feeling of accomplishment! Sad isn't it? : ) I have to move in very short steps!
No, I don't recall you saying about not going to university, but I think that's often by the by. My nephew, who's a brilliant doctor in genetics, never went either. He left school and went to work in a haemotology lab at a local hospital. HIS curiosity got the better of him, and he knew that he wanted to work in the medical field, but didn't seem to have the qualifications to study as a doctor. Despite that, he enrolled in various classes and was so good that he was sprung onto a doctor's training course which he passed with flying colours. He won an award for his work and was headhunted by someone at St. Thomas's Hospital in London. He was only there for a short while, but it was enough for him to know that with working with children who had genetic problems, that he wanted to go into this. He managed to get a position in Southampton where he studied further, and has just got a new job in Southport, which's in the north. His dedication's paid off, and he's now involved in stem cell research connected to diseases such as cancer. He's an extremely bright, yet unassuming man, but there's a similarity between yourself and him, in that neither of you attended university, but you got into the lines of work which you were good at.
You're right again. I don't have a dire need to get into computers, but because I feel so backward that I can't even figure things out for myself, I retain a certain interest - from a distance! Some small things stick in my mind, but mostly not, and I fail to understand why this happens, since I can latch onto other subjects pretty quickly and can understand and remember what I've learnt. I suppose if someone has no interest in delving into something, then the push to look into it further just never arrives. Thank goodness I have somewhere where I CAN get simple questions answered, and explained in a way which I can hopefully understand which reminds me - could I access BFC through TOR??? Then I could ask daft questions without everyone spluttering with mirth at my ignorance?!! : )
You've been a great help, even though you might not realise it, so thanks again.
Can you just tell me about the TOR bundles? I don't know which one I'd need - if any "bundle" at all? Obviously the browser has to work with the Windows 7 I'm using, but I've only had a quick look and seen where they're OK to use with XP etc., and Windows 7 wasn't mentioned (or perhaps I missed it with not reading it all properly). Sometime after Christmas, I definitely want to see if I like the feel of it, but that's all really. I'm not about to try and do anything untoward - just out of curiosity. If I manage to browse SOMETHING, however feeble, you're right - lol - I''ll have a feeling of accomplishment! Sad isn't it? : ) I have to move in very short steps!
No, I don't recall you saying about not going to university, but I think that's often by the by. My nephew, who's a brilliant doctor in genetics, never went either. He left school and went to work in a haemotology lab at a local hospital. HIS curiosity got the better of him, and he knew that he wanted to work in the medical field, but didn't seem to have the qualifications to study as a doctor. Despite that, he enrolled in various classes and was so good that he was sprung onto a doctor's training course which he passed with flying colours. He won an award for his work and was headhunted by someone at St. Thomas's Hospital in London. He was only there for a short while, but it was enough for him to know that with working with children who had genetic problems, that he wanted to go into this. He managed to get a position in Southampton where he studied further, and has just got a new job in Southport, which's in the north. His dedication's paid off, and he's now involved in stem cell research connected to diseases such as cancer. He's an extremely bright, yet unassuming man, but there's a similarity between yourself and him, in that neither of you attended university, but you got into the lines of work which you were good at.
You're right again. I don't have a dire need to get into computers, but because I feel so backward that I can't even figure things out for myself, I retain a certain interest - from a distance! Some small things stick in my mind, but mostly not, and I fail to understand why this happens, since I can latch onto other subjects pretty quickly and can understand and remember what I've learnt. I suppose if someone has no interest in delving into something, then the push to look into it further just never arrives. Thank goodness I have somewhere where I CAN get simple questions answered, and explained in a way which I can hopefully understand which reminds me - could I access BFC through TOR??? Then I could ask daft questions without everyone spluttering with mirth at my ignorance?!! : )
You've been a great help, even though you might not realise it, so thanks again.
Re: Tor Browser
GO HERE: https://www.torproject.org/projects/torbrowser.html.en
Then download the English language version of the Tor Browser intended to be used on Windows OS's
It's unclear to me if there are any restrictions to which version of Windows that can be used to run the Tor Browser. The software bundle indicated will work on both 32-bit and 64-bit computers which covers a lot of computers made during the last decade or two. If Firefox will work on Windows XP, for example, then the Tor Browser will work there too.
You can place the downloaded file anywhere on your computer and it will be installed wherever that downloaded copy happens to be. Thus, if you put it on your desktop, you will end up with a Tor Browser folder and an icon to click on your desktop. If you decide to put it on a USB memory stick, then the browser will be installed there instead. If you are disappointed with Tor or simply want to rid your system of it's presence, then simply delete the icon and the folder. There are no other traces of the Tor Browser left on your computer.
After installation, do your experimenting. And, yes you will be able to see all the Brainformation forums. A few things are not included with the Tor Browser for security reasons. One of those things is Adobe Flash. That means if you go to a web site where you need Flash to view the content, you will not see the Flash generated content. You can install Flash into the Tor Browser if you care to, but that voids the warranty - or more precisely gives up some of the anonymity built into the browser. That's why they tell you up front not to install any add-ons. Some of them keep track of you which is exactly what you are trying to avoid when you use Tor. The good news is that you will see fewer popups and fewer ads. The bad news is that some web sites will refuse to show you anything unless you can view those ads. I'd estimate that you will be 90%+ trouble free using the Tor Browser and 100% safer from identity theft.
When you come here via the Tor Browser, we will still know who you are because Icey is well known here. Our web site servers, however, will not know who you are because your identity will be obfuscated. I personally do not care about that because you are a trusted visitor. However, I look at that identity information each time we get an application for a new member account. If it's obviously obfuscated, I assume it's somebody up to no good and deny entry. Your bank and other financial transactions are handled the same way by their servers. In their case they may follow up and ask you to provide additional identifying information. For my purposes, that is the greatest value of the Tor Browser. I can buy things online and feel a little safer about sending my personal information over the public network.
Then download the English language version of the Tor Browser intended to be used on Windows OS's
It's unclear to me if there are any restrictions to which version of Windows that can be used to run the Tor Browser. The software bundle indicated will work on both 32-bit and 64-bit computers which covers a lot of computers made during the last decade or two. If Firefox will work on Windows XP, for example, then the Tor Browser will work there too.
You can place the downloaded file anywhere on your computer and it will be installed wherever that downloaded copy happens to be. Thus, if you put it on your desktop, you will end up with a Tor Browser folder and an icon to click on your desktop. If you decide to put it on a USB memory stick, then the browser will be installed there instead. If you are disappointed with Tor or simply want to rid your system of it's presence, then simply delete the icon and the folder. There are no other traces of the Tor Browser left on your computer.
After installation, do your experimenting. And, yes you will be able to see all the Brainformation forums. A few things are not included with the Tor Browser for security reasons. One of those things is Adobe Flash. That means if you go to a web site where you need Flash to view the content, you will not see the Flash generated content. You can install Flash into the Tor Browser if you care to, but that voids the warranty - or more precisely gives up some of the anonymity built into the browser. That's why they tell you up front not to install any add-ons. Some of them keep track of you which is exactly what you are trying to avoid when you use Tor. The good news is that you will see fewer popups and fewer ads. The bad news is that some web sites will refuse to show you anything unless you can view those ads. I'd estimate that you will be 90%+ trouble free using the Tor Browser and 100% safer from identity theft.
When you come here via the Tor Browser, we will still know who you are because Icey is well known here. Our web site servers, however, will not know who you are because your identity will be obfuscated. I personally do not care about that because you are a trusted visitor. However, I look at that identity information each time we get an application for a new member account. If it's obviously obfuscated, I assume it's somebody up to no good and deny entry. Your bank and other financial transactions are handled the same way by their servers. In their case they may follow up and ask you to provide additional identifying information. For my purposes, that is the greatest value of the Tor Browser. I can buy things online and feel a little safer about sending my personal information over the public network.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
Well exactly. That last bit about buying online might be handy for me. I don't use paypal and I'm loathe to use bank cards after having the details stolen a few years ago. The only 2 sites that I'd ever use for that are, to my mind, very secure, but not secure enough for me to feel comfortable, so using TOR could be slightly better for my needs.
Thank you for that link! I shall use it and report on what happens in the New Year. If I popped onto your site, do I have to log in again? Can't remember the details now (like password!!). I don't log out of here, so would it just come up as usual? Do I have to google it to get onto it??? I just use bookmarked sites for this, and other regular places I visit.If you could see my expression right now, you'd laugh! : (
I have a 64- bit computer, and so I can't see any problems there. It's just GETTING there that bothers me, after my last feeble attempts.
Thank you anyway. I'll be brave! LOL!
Thank you for that link! I shall use it and report on what happens in the New Year. If I popped onto your site, do I have to log in again? Can't remember the details now (like password!!). I don't log out of here, so would it just come up as usual? Do I have to google it to get onto it??? I just use bookmarked sites for this, and other regular places I visit.If you could see my expression right now, you'd laugh! : (
I have a 64- bit computer, and so I can't see any problems there. It's just GETTING there that bothers me, after my last feeble attempts.
Thank you anyway. I'll be brave! LOL!
Re: Tor Browser
When you use the Tor Browser for the first time, you will have to log into all the sites you normally need a name and password to see. The reason for that is due to the fact that all your login credentials are referred to by cookies. There will be no cookies in the Tor Browser the first time you use it. Your login name in our forums is Icey, but I have no way of knowing what your password is.
You also will not have any bookmarks in the Tor Browser until you put them there. Typing in "brainformation.com" to the address bar should get you to our home page. You can get to the forums from there. OR, you can do a Google search for "brainformation" and we will show up in that list. Same goes for all the other sites you want to visit.
As far as shopping on line goes, the advantage of the Tor Browser is not its ability to hide your identity. The advantage would be in Tor's ability to encrypt all your transmissions so that nobody could read them even if they did see them. Be sure you understand that there might be a leg of the network that is not encrypted if the site you go to does not use the https protocol. It's a small risk, plus now and days any site that transmits sensitive information does it using https. You will know if they are using that protocol by looking at their address. It should be https://website.com and not simply http://website.com
We will expect a full report early next year.
You also will not have any bookmarks in the Tor Browser until you put them there. Typing in "brainformation.com" to the address bar should get you to our home page. You can get to the forums from there. OR, you can do a Google search for "brainformation" and we will show up in that list. Same goes for all the other sites you want to visit.
As far as shopping on line goes, the advantage of the Tor Browser is not its ability to hide your identity. The advantage would be in Tor's ability to encrypt all your transmissions so that nobody could read them even if they did see them. Be sure you understand that there might be a leg of the network that is not encrypted if the site you go to does not use the https protocol. It's a small risk, plus now and days any site that transmits sensitive information does it using https. You will know if they are using that protocol by looking at their address. It should be https://website.com and not simply http://website.com
We will expect a full report early next year.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
Thank you. I have visions though ...... don't be at all surprised if I mess up, but making online transactions WAS one of the things I was thinking of, but first I just want to get onto the thing and browse some very simple stuff. When I've done that, I'll be more confident about the whole process.It just feels sort of covert. TOR has a bad reputation over here. You mention it to people, and they look back at you in shock, as though you're going onto some dark satanic site or something. LOL - I'm sure you CAN, but that isn't my aim, as I'm sure anyone reading this knows.
Thanks Yogi. You'll hear about my efforts in due course.
Re: Tor Browser
I've downloaded and used the portable version, from here:
https://github.com/garethflowers/tor-browser-portable/
Am still checking out it, and since I already use a simple rule for Internet: The less I use banking, the better. Any banking mail I get is surely garbage, and it has been a while since I did any transaction or have any amount in the Paypal account, I just keep vigilant... If in need, and using a public wi-fi network, surely I'll be using it. Thanks anyway for bringing the subject here.
https://github.com/garethflowers/tor-browser-portable/
Am still checking out it, and since I already use a simple rule for Internet: The less I use banking, the better. Any banking mail I get is surely garbage, and it has been a while since I did any transaction or have any amount in the Paypal account, I just keep vigilant... If in need, and using a public wi-fi network, surely I'll be using it. Thanks anyway for bringing the subject here.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
That looks like another interesting one ocelot.
I don't use online anything when I'm out, as I have no need to. My mobile phone's as old as the hills. It has no apps, no nothing. I'd use it in emergencies, or for very occasional calls or texts, but that's it. It doesn't even take photos! : )
I don't have a tablet or laptop which I take out with me, so it's just me and my desktop computer when I'm at home.
I suppose that link to the portable TOR browser could be very useful to some folk though.
I don't use online anything when I'm out, as I have no need to. My mobile phone's as old as the hills. It has no apps, no nothing. I'd use it in emergencies, or for very occasional calls or texts, but that's it. It doesn't even take photos! : )
I don't have a tablet or laptop which I take out with me, so it's just me and my desktop computer when I'm at home.
I suppose that link to the portable TOR browser could be very useful to some folk though.
Re: Tor Browser
Thanks for the link Juan. GitHub is offering the exact version as does the Tor website. The Hub is a very popular place to obtain software of any kind, and some of it can easily be used for bad purposes.
The Tor network has a reputation that it does not rightly deserve these days. There are instances when anonymity is desired for purely ethical reasons. Take Facebook as an example. They track your every movement on the Internet, not only on their website but on their partners' as well. One way they keep track of your activity is via your IP address. Thus, if you are interested in preserving your privacy on Facebook, using the Tor browser is an ideal solution. Banks and government institutions have a business interest in the encryption aspect of the Tor network, and as you may know encryption has become a major political issue in recent days. The governments of the world are demanding a master key so that all encryption can be deciphered by them where national interests are concerned. People such as Tor and all the major browser publishers are against this idea because it leaves everyone at risk should the master key be stolen. Thus there is a lot of publicity these days about the Tor Network because they are right in the middle of the encryption debate.
The Tor network has a reputation that it does not rightly deserve these days. There are instances when anonymity is desired for purely ethical reasons. Take Facebook as an example. They track your every movement on the Internet, not only on their website but on their partners' as well. One way they keep track of your activity is via your IP address. Thus, if you are interested in preserving your privacy on Facebook, using the Tor browser is an ideal solution. Banks and government institutions have a business interest in the encryption aspect of the Tor network, and as you may know encryption has become a major political issue in recent days. The governments of the world are demanding a master key so that all encryption can be deciphered by them where national interests are concerned. People such as Tor and all the major browser publishers are against this idea because it leaves everyone at risk should the master key be stolen. Thus there is a lot of publicity these days about the Tor Network because they are right in the middle of the encryption debate.
-
Icey
Re: Tor Browser
Thank you Yogi, and OK, I'm ready for another try.
Can you give me a genuine link so as I can download TOR please? I never know if the ones I've looked at are "real" or not.
If I get it, will it automatically show up on my desktop, or how do I put it there for ease? : (
Can you give me a genuine link so as I can download TOR please? I never know if the ones I've looked at are "real" or not.
If I get it, will it automatically show up on my desktop, or how do I put it there for ease? : (