Upgraded Internet Safety 101
Before you start downloading torrents or accessing sensitive information, you need to protect yourself. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to browse safely and anonymously.
Quick Navigation
1. Get a Better Browser
Your browser is your gateway to the internet. Chrome and Edge sell your data. Here are better alternatives:
LibreWolf
One of the most privacy-respecting browsers available, next to TOR. I have now personally used it and can recommend.
Firefox
My personal favorite. Great for privacy, non-Chromium based. Make it safer with this guide.
TOR Browser
The Onion Router. Slow as hell, but if you're really concerned about your privacy, this is what you're looking for.
WARNING: TOR enables you to visit .onion websites, some of which host deeply disturbing & illegal content. Don't click a .onion link unless it's from a trusted source.
2. Install Browser Extensions
These extensions will block ads, trackers, and protect your privacy:
Ublock Origin
Essential for safe browsing and blocking ads. Works on pretty much every browser. This will also remove YouTube ads!
Chrome users: Get Ublock Origin Lite.
Privacy Badger
An algorithmic tracker blocker made by the Electronic Frontier Foundation.
WebRTC Leak Shield (Firefox)
Prevents WebRTC leaks that can expose your real IP address even when using a VPN.
3. Get a VPN (if you're gonna torrent)
Why do I need this? Your ISP can see torrent activity and might send you copyright notices/cease and desists, or throttle your connection (happened to me).
Mullvad VPN
€5/month (~$5.49), no email/password required, just an account number. This is what I recommend.
Alternative: ProtonVPN
Free tier available, paid plans for torrenting.
But I can't afford it!!! Check out this Redditor's free VPN masterlist. Remember kids, if it's free... you're probably the product. Make damn sure they don't sell your data.
4. Change Your DNS (Optional but Recommended)
Protects against ISP snooping and blocks malicious sites:
Quad9
Blocks malicious domains. DNS address: 9.9.9.9
Pi-Hole (Advanced Users)
For advanced users with a bit extra spending money. Create a network-wide ad blocker using a Raspberry Pi.
5. Get a Torrent Client
qBittorrent
Free, open-source, no ads. This is the one to use.
ALWAYS use your VPN when torrenting!!
Do not use BitTorrent or uTorrent! They are not safe and come with adware.
6. Practice Safe Piracy
Follow these rules to stay safe:
- Only download from trusted uploaders: Check user history/ratings/reddit and read comments.
- Scan downloads with VirusTotal: Always check files before opening them.
- Use a VPN whenever you torrent: Your ISP is watching.
- Never run .exe files unless you know what you're doing: Why would an epub you're downloading come as an .exe? Use your brain.
- Don't click or download shit from pop-up ads: This is why an ad-blocker is so important.
Ready to start pirating? Check out the Piracy, Gaming & Digital Tools page for torrent sites, game resources, and more.
Disclaimer & Legal Notice
Educational Purpose Only: Kolvas (including "We," "Us," "Our Website," and "The Website") provides this information solely for educational, informational, and harm reduction purposes. We do not endorse, encourage, or support any illegal activities. Users assume full responsibility for their actions and use this information entirely at their own risk. Kolvas cannot be held liable for any direct or indirect consequences arising from the use of the information provided here.
Copyright & DMCA Compliance: We do not host copyrighted or illegal materials on our servers. All content on this website is protected under our constitutional right to free speech and self-expression. We respect intellectual property rights and will comply with valid DMCA takedown requests. If you believe your copyrighted material has been posted without authorization, please contact us at k0lvas@proton.me for removal.
Non-Affiliation: Kolvas is a grassroots community resource. We are not associated with, funded by, or affiliated with any terrorist organization, hate group, or violent extremist entity. We firmly condemn all acts of terrorism, violence, and bigotry, whether domestic or international.
Acceptance of Terms: By accessing and using this website, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these terms.