Has anybody used Internet Archive, archive.org? They want donation minimum 1USD. Is it safe and reliable to pay them?

 

The Internet Archive (archive.org) is generally considered a legitimate and reputable platform, but its safety depends on how it is used and recent developments:

Legitimacy and General Safety
The Internet Archive is a non-profit organization established in 1996, offering free access to a vast collection of digital content, including books, websites, and videos. It is widely recognized as a trustworthy entity supported by educational institutions and libraries.

The platform itself does not pose inherent risks, but users should exercise caution when downloading content, as some files may originate from unverified sources and could potentially be harmful.

Recent Security Concerns
In October 2024, the Internet Archive suffered a significant cyberattack involving DDoS attacks, data breaches, and website defacement. Personal data of 31 million users, including email addresses and hashed passwords, was exposed.

The platform has since been restored with improved security measures. However, some features were temporarily limited or operated in read-only mode during the recovery period. While the stored data was deemed safe, users are advised to remain cautious and monitor for updates from the organization regarding security improvements.

Precautions for Users
Be cautious when downloading files from the Internet Archive. Scan downloaded content with antivirus software to ensure safety. Avoid entering sensitive information on the platform until you are confident about its security status.

If you had an account on archive.org before the breach, consider changing your password and monitoring for potential misuse of your data.
In summary, while the Internet Archive is a valuable resource and generally safe to use, users should remain vigilant due to past security issues and the potential risks associated with user-uploaded content.

The request for donations, including a minimum of $1, is used to cover the ongoing costs of operating and expanding their services. If you decide to donate, it's important to ensure you do so through the official website to protect your payment information. Overall, it's a trustworthy platform that helps many users access valuable information.

Source: AI

 

I have found a book. Will I be able to download it after a donation? Any experienced guys here?

 

I have donated to the Internet Archive for years because they do a lot of good. That is to say, I agree with their mission. Wayback Machine by itself is a godsend. But the donation is optional, everything is free regardless. That said, please do donate.

I wouldn't necessarily download software that I'd run without a sandbox or something, but their media vaults are immense and that's why I'm there. I never had any issues with anything though, but would I vouch for safety for 20 year old cracked abandonware? Of course not.

Just take normal precautions as you would with anything you get off the net and you'll be alright.

 

If it's available at all the donation is strictly optional and for support.

 

Agreed with Will, download software at your own risk, but everything else no issues here. I have an account, but most of the time I'm signed out and just hit the download button directly on the file I want.

 

Don’t they have just books? Good. I have just borrowed a book. So I can read it online. I don’t know this platform. Thank you for info.

 

They have drawn some more unwanted attention about copyright "infringing" content recently, than in years past. But no, there are tons of different types of content. Old Samples, programs, artwork, and obviously books.

 

I downloaded the VST2 SDK from there. Take that, Steinberg fuckers!

 

It's the internet. You scan everything you download right? This is why you have an A/V installed on your internet machine. Suffice to say I have never had an issue with anything grabbed from there... Anything I have ever gotten from there was available via Torrent. There are plenty of free places to get e-books rather than submitting your privacy to more scrutiny.

 

Last edited: Mar 13, 2025

I'm supprised no one has mentioned the music there yet.

78rpm, cylinder and some live recordings are what they supposed to have.
https://archive.org/details/78rpm
a lot of 45s and tapes keep creeping in causing the copyright problems. That and old recordings being re-released on CD to renew their copyright after it ran out.

Most of the good uploaders are Colleges, Universities, musimes and Community Libraries.
Here's Vermont Universities' 78's
https://archive.org/details/78rpm_university-of-vermont

Just remeber to check the provider, it helps judge the quality and reliability of the source, and always scan.

 

No, they don’t have it.
Anyway, I tried to download the book but it has a strange extension and just 27kB…? But I can read it online.

 

yes

 

depends on the book. some have downloads available. some are only readable online and are not printable
often a book that is only available to read on line may also have a download available under a different name or link.

 

you don't need to use your real name or email to setup an account on archive.org
you can access it via vpn to hide your real ip address.
many of the files are available to download or as a torrent.

 

you can also try ebay and used book sellers. google has some books you can read online without logging into a google account.

Scribd has many books, articles, manuals etc.

 

still i would kick them a few bucks every year or so. its a great resource and well worth a 10 or 20 dollar donation annually ...

 

Absolutely save, grabbed the old San Andreas from there and some real pdf gems, Cornelius Agrippa etc......