The latest version of the specialized distribution Tails (The Amnesic Incognito Live System) has been announced by its developers as part of the Tor project. Tails 6.11 is built on the DEBIAN 12 package base with the GNOME 43 desktop, and is specifically designed for anonymous internet access through Tor. By default, all connections not routed through the Tor network are blocked, and user data is encrypted for storage between sessions. The ISO-image for live-mode use is available for download at 1GB.
The new release addresses vulnerabilities discovered during a security audit, requiring access to the local system to exploit. These vulnerabilities include issues with the Tails Upgrader that could potentially install a modified distribution update for constant control over the system, as well as concerns with specific applications that could compromise user anonymity and activity tracking.
- A vulnerability in Tails Upgrader could allow for the installation of a malicious update leading to system compromise.
- Potential problems with individual applications could result in deanonymization and user activity tracking.
- A specific issue relates to the Constant Vault settings being altered.
Aside from security updates, other changes in Tails 6.11 include:
- Updates to Tor Browser 14.0.4 and Thunderbird 128.5.0.
- Removal of hardware wallet support in the Bitcoin client Electrum.
- Disabling the reopening of the last file in the Gnome Text Editor.
- Addition of a link for installing connections via Tor in the system tray.
- Improved error detection for USB drive partitioning issues affecting Persistent Storage.
View partitioning error notification image here.
