Instead of connecting directly to a server that can fulfill a requested resource, such as a file or web page for example, the client directs the request to the proxy server, which evaluates the request and performs the required network transactions. Acting as an intermediary, proxy servers relay your traffic to the destination and send the answer back to you so that the destination server potentially only sees the proxy and not your IP address: Proxies are famous for 'anonymity on demand'. If the destination server is not using SSL/TLS, then the entire content of traffic is vulnerable as well. Therefore, the internet service provider (ISP) or any man-in-the-middle can see connection details, including the destination IP address. Missing encryption: There are no known HTTP(S) or SOCKS4(a)/5 proxies that offer an encrypted connection between itself and the user.No legitimate proxy providers: There are no known legitimate and free public HTTP(S) or SOCKS4(a)/5 proxies.By merging the data, this means users are distinguishable and easily identifiable. Even if the user's IP address was replaced by a proxy without any leaks, proxies do not ensure that users have an uniform appearance on the Internet see Data Collection Techniques. Browser fingerprinting: Even if proxies had a leak shield, due to browser fingerprinting, proxies are not suitable for being anonymous when browsing the internet.Whonix ™ is a leak shield to force all connections to use the Tor anonymity network. There is no project that is actively working on implementing a leak shield for proxies. In case of Tor, projects such as Tor Browser and Whonix ™ are entirely focused to provide a leak shield. A leak shield is required to make sure all applications are used by a tunnel such as a proxy, VPN or Tor. Proxies are usually used without a leak shield.

Web browser are notoriously known to leak the user's real IP address through WebRTC, browser plugins and a number of other techniques.

Configuration an application such as a web browser to reliably use a proxy for all connections is very difficult. Missing leak shield: Proxies don't have a leak shield.4.2.2 Links to Software / Provider and Tests.

2.2.2 Anonymization Service Feature Comparison.

Tor vs vpn vs proxy and socks