How Anonymous Are HTTP Proxies?

Many people use http proxies for the main purpose of being anonymous. However, you really need to stop and think about what kind of anonymity you are looking for. There are two basic kinds of anonymity when it comes to using a proxy server to hide your identity. One is based on your IP and the other is actually a financial one.

Most people are concerned about hiding or changing their IP online with a proxy server. If this is what you call being anonymous then http proxies are one of the best ways to be truly anonymous online. You'll be able to surf websites, watch videos, post messages and do many other things online all without having to worry about a web master or website knowing your true home computer IP and location. You have absolutely nothing to worry about when it comes to IP anonymity with a http proxy.

What many people overlook is that while you can hide your IP, this is not the case when it comes to your financial information. What does a proxy server have to do with your personal finances? HTTP proxies are usually paid and not free, at least the good quality ones, and this means that you have to pay for your server somehow. This might mean providing credit card information, paypal account information or some other personal information that is required when making payments. Obviously this isn't something you should be concerned about, but you should nevertheless keep it in mind when hunting for a http proxy.