Is Firefox VPN + libgen a safe enough way to get ebooks? Is there a better way?

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I like to download a rare book now and then, but if practical I’d like to be safer about it.

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I’ve never used a vpn for libgen but I understand the need to feel safe and that depends on your threat model. What are the realistic consequences of not using a vpn with libgen for you and does using a vpn mitigate them?

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OP

I guess my threat model is my ISP snitching on me. Realistic consequences? Probably none, this is more of about trying to keep it that way and having peace of mind I guess.

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In that case, any vpn should suffice.

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Im using Tor for that.

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raw tor could cause more harm because its easily detectable by isp. i recommend using tor over vpn if living in a hostile state

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using tor is not illegal and what you do with tor is not readable to your isp.

using tor to make your libgen visit unreadable to your isp would work

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If you want to be extra secure you could use a VPN before Tor. But using a VPN would make you suspicious as well. They could force the VPN provider to track your future connections over their VPN. I assume it’s not that easy to trace your connections if your using tor.

Best is to install Tails on a USB Stick, boot it on a public computer over public WiFi while being completely covered with no mobile devices on yourself. But let’s be serious. The given thread model involved in downloading a book, the risk of drawing the attention of the authorities is probably very low. :)

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I use a VPN and a private DNS . i feel like thats plenty and I dont have any DNS leaks from my tests. I wouldn’t really trust mozzilla VPN a whole bunch but its probably fine. A real VPN provider is cheap, I’d get one. Ivpn or icevpn are good.

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I’ve only ever used IRC to find ebooks and never worried about a VPN. Check #ebooks on IRChighway or Undernet.

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Or xdcc search

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Wow, that’s oldschool. I haven’t even thought about IRC for at least 15 years. How actively is this still being used in general?

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I’m not understanding the risk, are you downloading at work or on a school network? is the book content illegal where you live? worried about malware maybe?

safe from whom/what is what i’m asking

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OP

I’m worried about the law’s attention for illegal procurement of otherwise legal works. I’m depriving rent collectors (oh no) and want to stay off their radar.

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he/him

MAM+VPN is a good way

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You should do whatever it takes to feel safe. But FYI, no private individual has ever been sued for downloading books.

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