The Tor network, originally developed by the U.S. Navy and now maintained by a nonprofit organization, has long been synonymous with anonymity and privacy on the internet. While most people associate Tor with the dark web, a hidden and often nefarious part of the internet, it also has a clearnet, or surface web, component. In 2023, we explore the top clearnet websites accessible through Tor, shedding light on the legitimate and valuable resources that exist in this privacy-focused corner of the internet.
What is Tor and Why Use It?
Tor, short for "The Onion Router," is a network designed to provide anonymity to its users by routing their internet traffic through a series of volunteer-run servers. This process, known as onion routing, ensures that the user's original IP address is concealed, making it difficult for anyone, including government entities and malicious actors, to trace their online activities back to them.
Many people use Tor for legitimate purposes, such as protecting their privacy from surveillance, accessing websites blocked by their local governments, and bypassing censorship. In addition to accessing the dark web, users can also explore the clearnet within the Tor network, offering a unique and secure browsing experience.
Top Clearnet Websites in Tor for 2023
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DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine that doesn't track user searches or store personal information. It is accessible via the clearnet on its regular website, but it also maintains a Tor version for those who want to maintain their privacy while searching the web. DuckDuckGo is an excellent alternative to mainstream search engines like Google for those who value privacy.
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ProPublica is an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism. They are committed to exposing abuses of power, holding the powerful accountable, and shining a light on important societal issues. Their Tor version allows users to access their content while maintaining their anonymity.
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The Intercept is an online news publication that focuses on national security, politics, and civil liberties. Their Tor version ensures that readers can access their investigative reporting without compromising their privacy.
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BBC News Even established news organizations like the BBC recognize the value of Tor in providing a secure and private browsing experience. The Tor version of BBC News allows users to access their news content with enhanced privacy.
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Facebook Surprisingly, Facebook also maintains a Tor version of its site, allowing users to access the social media platform while preserving their privacy. This can be particularly useful for individuals in countries with strict internet censorship or surveillance.
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The New York Times The renowned newspaper, The New York Times, offers a Tor version of its website for readers who value their privacy. This ensures that individuals around the world can access high-quality journalism without fear of being tracked.
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SecureDrop is a secure platform that allows whistleblowers to share sensitive information with journalists while maintaining their anonymity. It is used by many media organizations to securely receive tips and documents. The Tor version ensures the utmost privacy for both sources and journalists.
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ProtonMail is an encrypted email service known for its strong commitment to user privacy. The Tor version of ProtonMail offers an additional layer of security for users who want to send and receive emails anonymously.
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Riseup is a collective that provides secure communication tools for activists and political dissidents. Their Tor version offers a secure platform for email, VPN, and other services that prioritize privacy and security.
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The Guardian a respected British newspaper, also recognizes the importance of offering a Tor version of its website. Readers can access the news and investigative reporting with the assurance of enhanced privacy.
Conclusion
In 2023, the Tor network continues to provide a haven for those seeking privacy and anonymity on the internet. While the dark web often garners attention for its illicit activities, the clearnet within Tor offers a space for legitimate websites and services that prioritize user privacy.
These top clearnet websites in Tor for 2023 demonstrate that privacy-conscious individuals and organizations can enjoy access to quality news, search engines, email services, and more without sacrificing their online security. As internet surveillance and censorship continue to pose challenges to freedom and privacy online, Tor remains a valuable tool for those seeking a safer and more private browsing experience.
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