Tails is the most secure way to access darknet markets. It leaves no trace on your computer and routes all traffic through Tor automatically.
What is Tails?
Tails (The Amnesic Incognito Live System) is a portable operating system that protects against surveillance and censorship. It runs from a USB stick and leaves no trace on the computer you're using.
🔄 Amnesic
Forgets everything when shut down. No trace left behind.
🧅 Tor by Default
All internet traffic automatically goes through Tor.
🔐 Encrypted Storage
Optional persistent storage for files you need to keep.
🛡️ Privacy Tools
Includes GPG, KeePassXC, and other essential tools.
What You'll Need
- ✅ USB stick - at least 8GB (16GB+ recommended)
- ✅ Computer that can boot from USB
- ✅ Another device to read installation instructions
- ✅ 1-2 hours for first-time setup
Installation Steps
Step 1: Download Tails
- Visit
tails.boum.org(official site only!) - Download the USB image for your system
- Verify the download using the provided verification tool
Step 2: Create the USB Stick
Use one of these tools to write Tails to your USB:
- Windows: balenaEtcher or Rufus
- macOS: balenaEtcher
- Linux: GNOME Disks or dd command
Step 3: Boot from USB
- Insert the Tails USB and restart your computer
- Access boot menu (usually F12, F2, or Esc during startup)
- Select the USB drive to boot from
- Select "Tails" from the boot loader
Step 4: Configure Tails
- Select your language and keyboard layout
- Click "Start Tails"
- Wait for Tor to connect automatically
- Start using the Tor Browser
Setting Up Persistent Storage
Persistent storage lets you save files between Tails sessions. It's encrypted and optional.
- Go to Applications → Tails → Configure persistent volume
- Set a strong passphrase (this encrypts your storage)
- Select what to persist (Browser bookmarks, PGP keys, etc.)
- Restart and unlock persistent storage at boot
Only persist what you absolutely need. More persistence means more potential evidence if your USB is compromised.
Using Tails for Markets
Recommended Workflow
- Boot into Tails from your USB
- Connect to Tor (automatic)
- Unlock persistent storage if needed
- Open Tor Browser
- Access market via verified onion link
- Use GPG (Kleopatra) for PGP operations
- Use KeePassXC for password management
- Shut down completely when done
Included Security Tools
🔐 GnuPG (GPG)
Full PGP encryption suite with Kleopatra GUI.
🔑 KeePassXC
Secure password manager for all your credentials.
📝 Text Editors
Secure note-taking without metadata leaks.
🌐 Tor Browser
Pre-configured for maximum security.