TAILS and anonymity

So I am under the impression that if I were to install TAILS to a flashdrive, I would be able to run it from any computer, since it runs on its own operating system. This may be overly careful, but being in an area where things like TOR probably stand out to the ISP, I am a bit paranoid of making purchases. I have already installed TOR on a different flashdrive to browse The Marketplace. But would it be safe and anonymous if I were to run tails on a public computer at say, the library? Could I potentially place an order from a public computer to my home address, and be fine? If I run it from a public computer, would there be any need to run I2P? Would TOR be safe if it isn't even on my IP or computer, or does TOR's risk come from something else?


Comments


[1 Points] Pricelessprincess420:

Firstly as an end user, you are very unlikely to come under suscpicion unless you are buying for resale in your immediate area. Secondly; I'm assuming if there is a library nearby, that there is likely a McDonald's or other "Free Wi-Fi" establishment. Use this over your library connection. There are likely more users and no login required.

I2P is not neccessary and has a few holes IMO. It is resonably useful for email and chat. Just boot Tails and buy away.

Consider running a bridge or node from your home (limiting the bandwidth of course), so that many users' traffic runs through your ISP. Add to the network you are using and it will add to your camoflauge. Just don't run an exit node unless you want a knock on the door for someone file sharing some nefarious stuff via your node.


[0 Points] epotn:

Tails I believe has tor running as its default browser. If youre on a public network who cares if tor stands out (also this is not illegal) and it wouldn't matter if they did see encrypted/tor traffic. Placing an order would be pretty darn anonymous but shipping to your home addy would be something you have to decide if you want to risk, although you could put a fake name and misspell your address to have some sense of plausible deniability, i.e. the USPS will still ship to your house if it was say 123 Maple street if you put 123 Mapple St chances are good that you're gunna get your package. I also put fake names for online purchases all the time just for fun and I've never had a problem. Might look pretty suspect though if your on the library computer trying to go into the BIOS to boot off flash or even a dvd/cd.

tl;dr: yea that would be pretty safe, except someone might ask why you're running a different OS or trying to boot to a different OS. The network might have specific settings that require it to use windows (I'm not sure though not a Windows Server/network admin). Lastly to be extra safe, I'd try and get a pass to use one of the computers with fake i.d./ credentials and maybe a disguise (hat/sunglasses/clown mask) if they have camera's which they probably do.

or just use Tails on your own laptop, hop on the public wifi anywhere (library, barnes&noble, starbucks) ... you don't even have to leave your car