Curated Tor Resources
Icon Legend:
Project Website
Google Play Store
Apple App Store
F-Droid Repository
ABOUT THE PDF417 BARCODES:
The barcode placeholders represent PDF417 codes that would contain direct download links for each application. In a real-world scenario, these would allow activists to:
- Share app download links offline via printouts
- Access download links even when URLs are censored
- Verify app authenticity by comparing hashes encoded in the barcode
- Transfer app APKs via QR codes when internet is restricted
For actual deployment, these barcodes would need to be generated using a PDF417 generator and should include both the download URL and a SHA256 hash of the app for verification.
Important Considerations
- Security: Always ensure your Tor Browser is up-to-date to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Privacy: Avoid sharing personal information on .onion sites.
- Legality: Accessing certain content on the dark web may be illegal in your jurisdiction. Always ensure you're complying with local laws.
- Verification: Be cautious about phishing sites. Always verify .onion addresses from trusted sources.
Curated List of Tor .onion Sites
Embarking on the Tor network opens access to a variety of .onion sites catering to diverse interests. Here's a curated list to get you started:
.onion address (Tor network)
Regular web address (Clearnet)
Mobile Tor Resources for Activists
This section focuses specifically on tools and resources for journalists, human rights defenders, and political activists who need secure communication and internet access in high-risk situations.
CRITICAL SECURITY WARNING: If you are in a high-risk environment where surveillance or persecution is a real threat, proper operational security (OPSEC) goes far beyond simply installing apps. This guide is only a starting point. Seek professional security training and support from organizations like Access Now, Electronic Frontier Foundation, or Frontline Defenders.
Primary Tor Mobile Browsers
These are the most reliable ways to access the Tor network from a mobile device:
Tor Browser
Android
F-Droid
Official Tor Project browser offering the most comprehensive protection against tracking and surveillance.
RECOMMENDED: Most secure option for Android users.
Onion Browser
iOS
iOS browser endorsed by the Tor Project for accessing .onion sites and protecting privacy.
RECOMMENDED: Best option for iPhone/iPad users.
Orbot + Firefox
Android
iOS
Use Orbot as a proxy and route Firefox traffic through Tor for a more flexible experience.
For when Tor Browser is blocked or unavailable.
Direct Download Links (Verify these against official sources)
https://www.torproject.org/download/#android https://onionbrowser.com/ https://guardianproject.info/apps/org.torproject.android/ https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.torproject.torbrowser/Secure Messaging with Tor Integration
These messaging apps can work with Tor to enhance your privacy:
S
Signal + Orbot
Android
iOS
Configure Signal to route through Orbot for enhanced anonymity and to bypass blocking.
Android: Settings > Privacy > Communication through Tor
TM
Telegram + Orbot
Android
iOS
Configurable to work through Orbot's proxy for censorship resistance.
CAUTION: Not E2E encrypted by default; use Secret Chats only.
B
Briar
Android
F-Droid
Peer-to-peer messaging that uses Tor network by default; works offline via Bluetooth/WiFi.
RECOMMENDED: Designed specifically for activists and journalists.
SM
Session Messenger
Android
iOS
F-Droid
Decentralized messenger that routes through Oxen Service Nodes and can use Tor.
No phone number required; built-in onion routing.
Essential Companion Tools
Critical tools that work alongside Tor to enhance your security:
OR
Orbot
Android
iOS
Guardian
Proxy that routes any app's traffic through Tor; essential for creating a layered security approach.
CRITICAL TOOL: Basis for many security setups on mobile.
OA
ObscuraCam
Android
Guardian
Camera app that automatically detects and pixelates faces in photos.
For documenting events while protecting identities.
PV
ProofMode
Android
Guardian
Adds cryptographic proof to photos/videos to verify authenticity without compromising metadata.
For human rights documentation and evidence collection.
OS
Umbrella
Android
iOS
Digital security guide with practical advice for various threat scenarios.
By Security First; includes checklists and guides.
HV
Haven
Android
F-Droid
Turns any Android phone into a physical security monitor; detects intrusions and tampering.
By Guardian Project and Edward Snowden.
Secure Document & File Handling
OnionShare Mobile
Android
Share files securely over Tor without revealing your identity or leaving digital traces.
Available as command-line tool on F-Droid.
Picocrypt
Android
Lightweight but strong file encryption tool with minimal permissions.
Encrypt documents before sharing them through any channel.
Orbot + Conversations
Android
F-Droid
XMPP client that can be configured to work through Tor for secure file sharing.
End-to-end encrypted file transfers with OMEMO.
Emergency & Panic Button Tools
Ripple
Android
Guardian
Safety trigger that activates emergency protocols when activated (wipe data, send location, etc.)
For high-risk situations where device seizure is possible.
Panic Button
Android
Quickly alerts contacts with your location in emergency situations.
By Amnesty International; disguised as a calculator app.
ACTIVIST SECURITY CHECKLIST:
- Always download apps from official sources (F-Droid preferred when available)
- Use multiple layers of security: Tor + VPN + secure messaging
- Do not rely solely on any single tool or app
- Consider dedicated devices for high-risk activities
- Learn how to fully wipe your device in emergency situations
- Test your security setup before entering high-risk areas
- Consider potential legal implications of encrypted tools in your jurisdiction
- Create a security protocol with trusted contacts for check-ins
Download for Android (Google Play)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.torproject.torbrowser_alpha
Remember: Always verify links before clicking them.
ProtonVPN Android & iOS
Proton AG
While not a Tor browser itself, ProtonVPN offers a "Tor over VPN" feature that allows you to connect to Tor without using the Tor Browser. This provides an additional layer of privacy and access to .onion sites.
Download for Android (Google Play)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ch.protonvpn.android
Download for iOS (App Store)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/protonvpn-fast-secure-vpn/id1437005085
Remember: Always verify links before clicking them.
Brave Browser Android & iOS
Brave Software Inc.
Privacy-focused browser with built-in Tor capabilities in its Private Browsing with Tor mode. While not as comprehensive as the dedicated Tor Browser, it offers a convenient way to access .onion sites.
Download for Android (Google Play)
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.brave.browser
Download for iOS (App Store)
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brave-private-web-browser/id1052879175
Remember: Always verify links before clicking them.
