TOR
MINIMUM AGE: Tor does not have a specific age rating as it is a tool designed to enhance online privacy and security that is generally recommended for mature individuals.
WHAT IS IT? TOR, which stands for "The Onion Router," is a free software/app that enables anonymous communication on the internet. It routes internet traffic through a network of volunteer-operated servers (called nodes) to help users browse the web anonymously, making it difficult to trace their online activities back to their IP address. WHAT WE SAY: Avoid. WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF TOR? While Tor itself is a tool designed to enhance online privacy and security, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and dangers associated with the dark web, which is accessible through Tor or other similar networks. Tor aims to provide protection for ordinary people who want to follow the law. The dark web operates outside the boundaries of traditional internet regulations, making it challenging to enforce laws or protect users. Here are some key points to consider about accessing the dark web: People use the dark web to hide their identity, may not wish to have their data collected or may not want to be found. They could want to access inappropriate or dangerous content or want to use hidden services. Although TOR itself isn’t hidden, the sites and users under it are hidden under layers of darknet encryption. The dark web hosts various illegal activities, including the sale of drugs, weapons, stolen data, and hacking services. Engaging in or accessing such activities is illegal and can lead to severe consequences. The dark web contains malicious websites, scams, and malware that can pose significant risks to users. These can include phishing attempts, fraudulent services, malware downloads, hacking, identity theft, and other illegal activities. The dark web can host disturbing and illegal content, such as child exploitation material and other explicit or violent material. Although sex offenders are more likely to approach children on the surface web than the dark web, they tend to use the dark web to meet online and discuss their strategy to take advantage of children. |
SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER:
When it comes to the dark web, it's important for parents/ carers and educators to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their children's online safety. Here are some safety tips for parents: 1. Communication and Education: Foster open communication with your children about internet safety and the potential dangers of the dark web. Educate them about the risks associated with accessing illegal content and engaging in illicit activities. 2. Parental Controls and Monitoring: Set clear guidelines & utilise parental controls to monitor and restrict your child's online activities. Maintain an active presence in your child's online activities. 3. Teach Privacy Protection: Educate your children about the importance of safeguarding personal information online. Emphasize the significance of not sharing sensitive details, such as full names, addresses, or financial information, on any platform. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be used to provide an additional layer of security. 5. Report Suspicious Activity: Make sure your children know who to, and how to report any suspicious or concerning activity they come across while browsing the internet and dark web. FURTHER SUPPORT: For parents/ carers If you're worried about your child or need support call NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If you discover criminal content when online then report it directly to the police or the Internet Watch Foundation. If you're worried about online grooming or sexual behaviour online then report directly to the police or contact CEOP. For Children & young people if they're worried or want to talk, encourage them to contact Childline Online or call 0800 1111. Check out our Resource Centre for further information and useful online safety tips. |