What is Tor?

Wondering what Tor is and why it matters? Think of it this way: Tor is essentially a digital invisibility cloak that hides all your online activities from prying eyes. This tool not only keeps your browsing private, it also opens up a gateway to the hidden corners of the web. 

Let’s look at how Tor works so you can make informed decisions about your children’s online activities that will help keep them safe.

What Is a Tor Browser?

Tor, short for “The Onion Router,” is a free web browser (similar to Firefox and Safari) designed to enhance privacy and anonymity online. Anyone can download Tor from the torproject.org website. The site offers the browser for various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux. The Onion Browser is a version of Tor available for download on iOS.

It works by routing internet traffic through a network of relays run by volunteer servers (also known as nodes). Data is routed through a series of these nodes: the entry node, which first receives the encrypted data, the middle nodes, which further relay the data, and the final node called the exit node, which decrypts and sends it to the destination.

This process makes it difficult for websites and external parties to track a user’s online activity and location by hiding your IP address, plus adding multiple layers of encryption to your data (just like the layers of an onion). 

Tor is often associated with the dark web, a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires special software — like Tor — to access.  

What is Tor Actually Used For?

Tor is commonly used by individuals who want to shield their personal data from trackers and surveillance. There are various reasons why some may find Tor appealing.

1. Privacy and Anonymity: Tor is popular among individuals seeking to protect their personal information from being tracked by websites, advertisers, or government agencies.
2. Avoiding Censorship: In countries with restrictive internet policies, Tor helps users access information and communicate freely without government oversight.
3. Journalism and Whistleblowing: Tor provides a secure platform for journalists and whistleblowers to share information without revealing their identities.
4. Protection from Data Harvesting: Many users value Tor’s ability to prevent data collection by companies and protect their online activities from being exploited.
5. Access to Hidden Services: Tor provides access to .onion websites, which are part of the “dark web” and offer services and information not available through traditional search engines.
6. Illegal Activities: While Tor can be used for legitimate purposes, it is also known to be used by individuals engaging in illegal activities due to its ability to mask identities and locations. This includes illicit trade, hacking, and other unlawful behavior.

What Parents Need to Know

While Tor itself is not illegal, and can be used for legitimate purposes such as protecting privacy in oppressive regimes or avoiding surveillance, the dark web can host illegal activities.

1. Risk of Exposure to Inappropriate Content: The dark web accessible via Tor can contain harmful or illegal content. Tor’s anonymity can facilitate activities like illegal drug sales, hacking, child pornography (CSAM), and other illicit transactions.
2. Potential for Misuse: While Tor can be a powerful tool for privacy, it may also be misused by individuals, including teenagers, to engage in risky or harmful online behavior.
3. Difficulty in Monitoring: Tor’s encryption and routing methods make it challenging to monitor or control what internet users do while on the network. Parents won’t be able to see a web browsing history afterwards, making it possible for kids to hide their online activities.

What to Do If You Discover Your Child Is Using Tor

If you discover your child is using Tor, it’s crucial to address the situation thoughtfully. Start by having an open and non-confrontational conversation to understand their reasons for using the tool. This will give you insight into their motivations and help you address any underlying issues they may be facing.

Next, educate them about the potential risks associated with Tor, such as exposure to illegal content and interactions with harmful individuals. Emphasize the importance of safe and responsible internet use, and establish clear guidelines for online behavior.

If their interest in Tor is driven by privacy concerns or access to restricted information, suggest safer alternatives — such as using a different browser like Firefox that can block trackers and enhance security. 

If needed, seek advice from a digital safety expert to ensure they’re navigating the internet safely.

Is it Safe to Have Tor?

Tor can be a valuable tool for privacy and anonymity, but it also comes with risks, especially for younger users. 

By understanding what Tor is and how it works, parents can better guide children in making safe and informed decisions online. Open communication, education, and appropriate monitoring are key strategies for ensuring a child’s online safety while fostering a healthy and responsible approach to internet use.

How do you discuss online privacy and tools like Tor with your children? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below.

Author Jackie Baucom

Jackie is a Gabb staff writer. She is the mother of four children and is passionate about keeping kids safe, happy, loved, and thriving. She has a degree in Mass Communication from the University of Utah.