Programmers from Hacktivismo created the browser, known as Torpark, by modifying Mozilla’s open source Portable Firefox browser to run through The Onion Router (TOR) network. The browser allows the user to make an anonymous connection to the website, a company spokesman said, adding that the application can be stored and run off of a USB memory stick.
Torpark uses a series of servers in the Onion Router network to change IP addresses every few minutes, which helps the user remain hidden from eavesdropping attempts. While Torpark conceals the users’ Internet connection, the data moving between the TOR network and the websites is not encrypted.
According to Andrew Jaquith, a senior analyst at Yankee Group, the browser offers a mixed bag for the online community.
"People want to protect their privacy while surfing the Web, and Torpark lets them do that," Jaquith said. "It also protects the identities of political refugees and those who are trying to evade Internet firewalls set up in countries like China."
A browser such as Torpark could also be used by child pornographers to cover their online tracks, according to Jaquith, who was quick to point out that Hacktivismo is looking to enhance its legitimacy by collaborating with security experts and political activists.