What are Tor websites?
Tor websites use .onion domains and live on the Tor network. They are not reachable with regular browsers or indexed by standard search engines. Tor routes traffic through multiple encrypted relays. That hides your real IP from the destination and makes it harder for observers to link your activity to your device. Tor websites can offer useful privacy and censorship-circumvention tools, but they are not inherently safe. Treat every .onion link as untrusted until verified.
Why people use Tor websites
People visit Tor websites for several legitimate reasons:
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Privacy: Tor reduces direct IP tracking by the site you visit.
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Censorship circumvention: Tor helps access content blocked in some countries.
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Secure submissions: Newsrooms and NGOs use .onion mirrors and SecureDrop for anonymous tips.
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Research and archives: Some archives and research resources are available only via Tor.
Simple comparison: Surface web vs Tor websites
| Feature | Surface web | Tor Websites |
|---|---|---|
| Indexing | Public search engines | Not indexed by normal engines |
| Access | Standard browsers | Tor Browser required |
| Tracking | High without protections | Reduced at network layer |
| Content risk | Varies | Higher chance of illegal/malicious content |
| Best for | Everyday browsing | Privacy, censorship circumvention, secure submissions |
Recommended Tor websites in 2026
Below are reputable .onion sites run by known organizations. Always cross-check each onion address on the organization’s clearnet site before visiting.
1) Tor Project — official resources
Onion: http://2gzyxa5ihm7nsggfxnu52rck2vv4rvmdlkiu3zzui5du4xyclen53wid.onion/
Why visit: Official documentation, Tor Browser downloads, and guides for onion services. Start here for verified Tor resources.
Quick evaluation: Authoritative; essential for learning how onion services work.
2) Proton (Proton Mail & services) — encrypted email via Tor
Onion: http://protonmailrmez3lotccipshtkleegetolb73fuirgj7r4o4vfu7ozyd.onion/
Why visit: Proton provides an official onion mirror for secure email and services. Useful for private mail access over Tor.
Quick evaluation: Well-maintained, privacy-oriented; recommended for secure comms.
3) DuckDuckGo — privacy search on Tor
Onion: https://duckduckgogg42xjoc72x3sjasowoarfbgcmvfimaftt6twagswzczad.onion/
Why visit: Privacy-respecting search engine available as an onion service. Good for private searches without mainstream tracking.
Quick evaluation: Solid default search on Tor Browser; widely referenced.
4) SecureDrop directory & newsroom mirrors
Onion: propublica.securedrop.tor.onion (verify v3 address via SecureDrop directory)
Why visit: SecureDrop endpoints let whistleblowers submit tips and files to newsrooms.
Quick evaluation: Trusted for confidential submissions — always verify the exact onion address on SecureDrop’s official directory.
5) The Guardian SecureDrop — trusted newsroom submission
Onion: theguardian.securedrop.tor.onion (verify via SecureDrop directory)
Why visit: Secure channel for anonymous tips to The Guardian.
Quick evaluation: Major newsroom presence; verify address on clearnet before use.
6) New York Times SecureDrop — verified newsroom submission
Onion: nytimes.securedrop.tor.onion (check SecureDrop directory)
Why visit: Official channel for confidential tips to the NYT.
Quick evaluation: High trust; verify v3 address via official channels.
Note: These recommended addresses are official mirrors or SecureDrop endpoints. Do not copy addresses from random lists. Always confirm via the organization’s HTTPS clearnet pages or SecureDrop directory before connecting.
VPN + Tor: where UFO VPN fits in
UFO VPN pairs well with Tor when used carefully:
Benefits:
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Hides Tor use from your ISP or local network observers.
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Secures the device on public Wi-Fi before you launch Tor.
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Reduces DNS leakage risk by centralizing DNS requests to the VPN.
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Provides geo-flexibility for testing access to region-limited clearnet resources before verifying onion links.
Caveats:
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A VPN adds another endpoint. Choose a reputable, no-logs provider and review its privacy policy.
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A VPN does not protect against Tor Browser exploits or poor operational security. Keep Tor Browser updated and follow best practices.
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Recommended flow: connect UFO VPN → launch Tor Browser → visit verified .onion sites.
Using both tools together changes the threat model in helpful ways for many users, especially on untrusted networks.
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Use UFO VPN's " What is My IP " feature to see your new IP and location. This confirms your connection is secure, anonymous, and ready for safe browsing online anywhere at any time.
Safe browsing guide for Tor websites
Follow these steps before and during any .onion session:
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Download Tor Browser from the Tor Project and keep it updated.
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Start free proxy VPN in UFO VPN (optional but recommended) before launching Tor—especially on public Wi-Fi.
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Open Tor Browser after the VPN is active. This hides Tor use from your ISP and secures local network traffic.
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Verify the onion address from a trusted clearnet source before visiting.
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Disable JavaScript by default; enable only when necessary for a trusted site.
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Do not download untrusted files. Files from unknown .onion sites often carry malware.
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Avoid logging into personal accounts (email, social media) while on Tor. Linking personal accounts undermines anonymity.
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Use disposable emails or throwaway accounts when a site asks for registration.
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Exit Tor Browser and clear session data after sensitive sessions.
FAQs
Is visiting Tor websites illegal?
Visiting Tor websites is legal in many countries. However, content on some .onion sites may be illegal to access. Always follow local laws and avoid unlawful content.
Will Tor make me fully anonymous?
No. Tor enhances network-level privacy but does not guarantee full anonymity. Browser exploits, poor operational security, and logging choices can still reveal identity.
Do I need a VPN with Tor?
A VPN (like UFO VPN) is optional but recommended for hiding Tor use from your ISP and protecting your device on public Wi-Fi. It complements — but does not replace — safe Tor configuration.
How can I confirm an onion address is genuine?
Cross-check the onion address on the organization’s clearnet site, official social channels, or the SecureDrop directory. Verify published fingerprints if available.
Can I download files from .onion sites safely?
Only download files from highly trusted and verified sources. Files from unknown .onion sites often contain malware targeted at Tor users.
