best3vpn

Is Tor Browser safe to use?

Safe with care

Yes, from the official site. Tor hides who you are from websites, but it is slow, and the last relay can see traffic to sites that don't use HTTPS.

Checked October 2026

Quick facts

Owned by
The Tor Project (non-profit)
Based in
USA
Encryption
Traffic is wrapped in three layers of encryption and passed through three relays. The final "exit" relay can see traffic to sites that don't use HTTPS.
Data it collects
The browser keeps no history by default. The Tor network doesn't know both who you are and what you visit.
Minimum age
Not designed for children

What keeps you safe

  • Free and open-source, maintained by a non-profit.
  • Built-in bridges (Snowflake, obfs4) help it work in censored countries.
  • Blocks trackers and clears cookies when you close it.

Risks to know about

  • Exit relays can see unencrypted traffic, so only send logins over HTTPS sites.
  • Using Tor can draw attention in countries that block it.
  • Much slower than a normal browser or a VPN.
  • The .onion sites it reaches include scams and illegal markets.

Scams to watch for on Tor Browser

  • Fake "Tor Browser" downloads from other sites that carry malware.
  • Dark-web shops that take payment and never deliver.

Is Tor Browser legit?

Tor Browser is legit, free and open-source. Only download it from torproject.org.

Is it safe for kids?

Not suitable for children.

How to use Tor Browser safely

  1. Download only from torproject.org.

  2. Keep the security level at Safer or Safest.

  3. Don't log in to personal accounts if you want to stay anonymous.

  4. Don't install extra browser add-ons.

Where Tor Browser is restricted

Does a VPN make Tor Browser safer?

Partly. A VPN hides your IP address and protects you on public Wi-Fi. It can't stop Tor Browser collecting data or scammers messaging you.

Picked for privacy and getting messages through.

Proton VPN

Swiss-based with open-source apps and a free tier, plus a Stealth protocol for restrictive networks.

For strict networks: the Stealth protocol.

Try Proton VPN

Private Internet Access

Open-source apps, unlimited devices and servers in every US state, at a low price.

For strict networks: the Shadowsocks proxy option.

Try Private Internet Access

NordVPN

Largest network of the six, with the NordWhisper protocol for networks that inspect traffic.

For strict networks: NordWhisper or obfuscated servers.

Try NordVPN
Not sure about these three? See 3 more VPNs ExpressVPN, Surfshark and CyberGhost

ExpressVPN

Obfuscation is switched on automatically on every server, so there is no special mode to find.

For strict networks: automatic obfuscation (with the protocol on Automatic).

Try ExpressVPN

Surfshark

Unlimited devices on one plan, with NoBorders mode that switches on in restrictive regions.

For strict networks: NoBorders mode.

Try Surfshark

CyberGhost

Servers labelled for specific streaming services and a 45-day refund window on longer plans.

For strict networks: a nearby server (CyberGhost has no stealth mode).

Try CyberGhost

We earn a commission if you buy a VPN through our links. It never changes what we report as blocked. How we pick and how we make money

Questions people ask

Is Tor Browser safe to use?

Yes, from the official site. Tor hides who you are from websites, but it is slow, and the last relay can see traffic to sites that don't use HTTPS.

Is Tor Browser legit?

Tor Browser is legit, free and open-source. Only download it from torproject.org.

Is Tor Browser encrypted?

Traffic is wrapped in three layers of encryption and passed through three relays. The final "exit" relay can see traffic to sites that don't use HTTPS.

What data does Tor Browser collect?

The browser keeps no history by default. The Tor network doesn't know both who you are and what you visit.

Is Tor Browser safe for kids?

Not suitable for children.

Does a VPN make Tor Browser safer?

Partly. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts traffic on public Wi-Fi, so your network and ISP can't see what you do on Tor Browser. It does not stop Tor Browser itself from collecting data, and it does not protect you from scams inside the app.

Sources