Silk Road forums

Discussion => Security => Topic started by: layson on September 26, 2012, 09:58 pm

Title: Is Live CD really necessary?
Post by: layson on September 26, 2012, 09:58 pm
I've been reading all of the posts on here and I understand that it is added security. But for those of us who have a bit of basic computer knowledge (and common sense) is it mandatory?

I am using my "work only" PC, and running an offshore VPN and then accessing TOR through the VPN in an encryped TC volume. Would you guys not consider that adequate?

Is there really much to worry about in regards to information leaking from my PC? This isn't a loaded question I'm legitimately curious if I should honestly worry about going the extra mile and transferring data back and fourth between my "work" PC and the Live CD. And if using the Live CD at a home connection, wouldn't the constant TOR connections and changing info be a flag for your ISP?

Thanks boys
Title: Re: Is Live CD really necessary?
Post by: layson on September 27, 2012, 05:11 am
**Shameless bump**
Title: Re: Is Live CD really necessary?
Post by: GiveUsSome on September 27, 2012, 06:10 am
I may be wrong, however I believe the reasoning behind the live CD or USB or whatever is so your computer doesn't have any traces of tor..

the reasoning behind this, I *think* is if you are ever raided, and your computer is taken away, as long as the law don't get your USB drive with linux + tor on it, they have no proof that you even used tor.

Even if they know you used tor they still have to prove you ordered, but its just another bit of circumstantial evidence against you.

so if your really ultra careful, you could set it up pretty easily.
Title: Re: Is Live CD really necessary?
Post by: Moldybread on September 27, 2012, 06:47 am
Are you a seller or just a buyer?

If your just a standard buyer and never acquire more than a few grams of weed you are fine with the tor browser + pgp.

However if you do anything that involves "large" amounts of drugs, especially if you are a seller and you have to handle sensitive customer information a much higher level of security is necessary.
Title: Re: Is Live CD really necessary?
Post by: taseMeBro on September 27, 2012, 07:35 am
I am an IT professional and I strongly recommend a Live CD or USB (I use the latter, Liberte' styles)

Your main concern, on top of those already mentioned, is a keylogger trojan/virus.  You don't want ANY capture system of any kind.  Believe me, I know how to install 'undetectable' types of monitoring and keylogging at the local level of computing.   Network security is only part of the equasion.  You want your hardware and software secure as well.

I recommend a laptop for portability and justification for running a 'secondary' system next to your desktop.  It doesn't need to be fancy, live CDs/USB distros are light and nimble.  Everything you do is encrypted, even emails to trusted partners if you have any.  My portable system NEVER logs into my real life public systems and has never seen my real name or email.  My home/work systems may have TOR installed, but they've never been used for my 'private' logins for tormail or SR/SR Forums. 

Last part:  NEVER give consent to search your system or property.  In the US, you lose your fifth amendment rights if you give consent.  They can compel you to give your encryption key, as it was part of the agreement when you gave consent.  If you're served a warrant, they can't compel shit, 5th amendment applies.

It may be over kill, but is there such thing when it comes to your freedom.