Orbot
| Company type | Free software |
|---|---|
| Industry | Internet privacy, proxy software |
| Founder | Guardian Project |
| Products | Proxy application for Android and iOS |
Orbot is a no-cost proxy application created by the Guardian Project that delivers Internet privacy for users on Android and iOS devices. It directs data traffic from applications such as web browsers, email apps, and mapping services through the Tor network, assisting users in safeguarding their communications from government monitoring and third-party interception.
Reception
In 2014, Orbot was featured in a piece focusing on secure reporting using Android devices. By January 2016, NakedSecurity by Sophos discussed the use of Tor with Orbot on Android to securely access Facebook.
Tech Radar listed Orbot among the "Best privacy apps for Android" in July 2021, noting that reduced speed is a compromise. That same month, Android Authority reviewed Orbot alongside Tor Browser as part of their evaluation of leading Android browsers.
In November 2021, The Daily Swig covered a partnership between the Tor Project and Guardian Project aimed at improving Orbot to help bypass censorship within device applications, while emphasizing that it does not offer complete anonymization of app traffic. By July 2022, PhoneWorld described Orbot as an easy-to-use mobile solution for accessing the Dark Web.
MakeUseOf recognized Orbot in October 2022 as a premier app providing Tor access on iOS and Android platforms, useful for overcoming regional restrictions though not ensuring full anonymity. Later that year, comprehensive instructions were released detailing how to utilize Orbot across various smartphone operating systems.
Further reading
- Jay Hathaway, Orbot offers anonymous browsing on Android, via Tor, Switched.com, 19 April 2010 (archived)