QUESTIONS ANSWERED
PrivacySTIX is designed to help provide a more secure and anonymous way to explore the dark web while minimising risks. With the help of PrivacySTIX, by understanding the potential dangers and taking appropriate precautions, you can safely navigate this hidden part of the internet. If you can't find the answers to your questions below, please explore the other sections of our website or contact us directly.
PRIVACYSTIX
Q: What is PrivacySTIX?
A: PrivacySTIX is effectively a stand-alone computer system contained within a USB stick, it's preloaded with a secure operating system and anonymising software designed to provide safe and private access to the dark web. It helps enhance your online privacy and security by isolating your activities from your main operating system.
Q: How does PrivacySTIX work?
A: PrivacySTIX works by running a secure operating system directly from the USB stick. This system includes built-in tools for anonymous browsing, which routes your internet traffic through a network designed to anonymise your activities. When you shut down your session, no traces of your activities on the dark web are left on your computer or your PrivacySTIX, unless of course you intentionally save them to either one.
Q: Why should I use PrivacySTIX instead of just using my main operating system?
A: PrivacySTIX offers enhanced security and privacy by isolating your dark web activities from your main operating system. It prevents potential malware from affecting your main system and ensures no traces of your browsing are left behind, providing a higher level of anonymity.
Q: Can I download files to PrivacySTIX?
A: Yes, you can download files directly to PrivacySTIX In fact, you can (should you wish) save a large amount of files, images and documents due to it's large internal storage capacity of 512GB. However, for security reasons, it's recommended to use caution, whilst nothing downloaded can affect your main computer system, malicious files could have a negative impact on your PrivacySTIX. Please note: In exceptional circumstances a file deleted from PrivacySTIX has the potential to be recovered when using highly sophisticated specialist recovery tools and software, so secure deletion methods should be used. If you are concerned in any way, destroy the device.
Q: What happens if I lose my PrivacySTIX?
A: If you lose your PrivacySTIX, your browsing data and activities are safe as long as you have not used persistent storage. The system is designed to be amnesic by default, meaning no data is retained after the session ends, unless of course you have manually turned on persistent storage, or manually saved files and not used secure deletion methods after receiving your PrivacySTIX.
DARK WEB
Q: Is it legal to access the dark web?
A: Yes, accessing the dark web is absolutely legal. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web, such as buying or selling illegal goods or services (something the dark web is renowned for), is against the law and can have serious legal consequences. Here at PrivacySTIX, we do not condone illegal activities.
Q: What can I legally do on the dark web?
A: On the dark web, you can legally browse forums, read news, access censored content, use privacy-focused communication tools, and purchase legal goods and services. It’s important to stay informed about the laws in your jurisdiction.
Q: How do I stay safer while browsing the dark web?
A: To stay safer on the dark web, use tools like PrivacySTIX, be wary when clicking on suspicious links, do not share personal information, use strong passwords, and regularly update your security software. Be cautious of scams and malicious sites.
Q: Are there legitimate uses for the dark web?
A: Yes, whilst the dark web offers many illegal products and services, the dark web has many legitimate uses. It provides a platform for free speech, helps protect the privacy of users, enables whistleblowing, and allows access to information in repressive regimes.
Q: Can I be tracked on the dark web?
A: Whilst PrivacySTIX enhances your anonymity and keeps your main operating system safe and secure, no system is completely foolproof. Sophisticated tracking techniques or user errors can potentially expose your identity. It’s important to leave the PrivacySTIX settings as they were when it arrived and follow best practices for anonymity.
VPN
Q: Do I need a VPN when using PrivacySTIX?
A: While PrivacySTIX provides robust security and anonymity, using a VPN can offer additional privacy benefits. A VPN can hide your dark web usage from your ISP, protect against traffic analysis, and help you access the dark web in regions where it is blocked.
Q: How does a VPN enhance my privacy on the dark web?
A: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, making it harder for ISPs and other entities to track your online activities. When used with PrivacySTIX, a VPN adds an extra layer of protection, especially in restrictive environments.
Q: What should I look for in a VPN provider?
A: As previously mentioned, a VPN isn't strictly required. However, if your ISP (internet service provider) is blocking access to the dark web, please ensure you choose a VPN provider with a strict no-logs policy, strong encryption standards, a kill switch feature, and a good reputation for privacy and security.
Q: Can a VPN help if my ISP blocks access to the dark web?
A: Yes, a VPN can help bypass ISP blocks on the dark web. By connecting to a VPN server, your traffic is encrypted and appears as regular internet traffic, allowing you to access the dark web even if your ISP restricts it.
Q: Should I always use a VPN with PrivacySTIX?
A: While not strictly necessary, using a VPN with PrivacySTIX simply provides added privacy and security. It helps mask your activities from your ISP and provides an extra layer of protection against potential monitoring and tracking.