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Understanding the Black Web
As such, you should exercise caution when accessing any unofficial dark websites. Alternatively, users can connect in opennet mode, which automatically assigns peers on the network. Unlike darknet mode, opennet uses a handful of centralized servers in addition to the decentralized peer-to-peer network. For built-in Tor over VPN functionality, NordVPN operates specialized servers that automatically route you through the Tor network.
In the vast majority of countries, the dark web itself is not illegal and it is not illegal to access it. As a result, it is easy to infect your machine by clicking links or downloading information. “Many of the websites accessible via a Tor browser are laden with malware,” warns John M. “The dark web requires a different mindset and skill set,” says Peraton vice president John M. There is no way to stumble upon websites, outside of the links posted by others publicly—every action must be deliberate. Sites and website pages or forums go up and come down, sometimes in a matter of days, adding another element of navigational difficulty that differentiates the dark web from the surface web.
The black web refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines. It includes various illegal and clandestine activities and a unique set of protocols. Gaining access to this area requires specific knowledge and tools.
The good news is that this happens very rarely and in 99.99% of the cases, users have no issues with this method. What happens, in this case, is that the Virtual Private Network encrypts your connection which prevents your ISP from seeing that you’re using Tor. Then, once you connect to Tor, your connection is encrypted once again, so you basically get a double layer of encryption. Since you now know how to access the dark web with Tor and VPN, I think I should clarify two very popular methods of doing so. Namely, you can first connect to a VPN and then connect to Tor – or vice versa.
Then in 2004, Tor was created by the US Naval Research Laboratory to give military personnel an anonymous way to use the internet without giving away their identity or location. This was intended to protect military personnel, while also giving them access to the full internet, even when serving from countries where the internet is heavily vetted by the local government. Tor is an open-source browser that allows people to access web pages on the dark web. The name “Tor” is an acronym that stands for The Onion Router, and the term “onion” isn’t as random as it sounds. This special browser uses layers of connections—like an onion—to keep the actions of its users secret while exploring the web.
Despite its menacing name, the Dark Web is not illegal per se, nor is it unlawful to access it. However, the undeniable fact is that most of the activities that happen on the Dark Web are related to criminal actions. Details for credit cards carrying a balance up to $1,000 cost $150 on average, while stolen online banking login details (for an account with a balance of at least $100) go for just $40. The Tor Browser is the easiest way to access Tor and thus, the Dark Web. It is available for free download and installation on the official website.
Essential Tools
Before diving into how to get on the black web, you need certain tools:
In order to make using the Tor network easier, the special Tor browser was developed. This is basically a Firefox browser that went through a lot of modification. Thanks to that, it can now access the Tor network and make the entire process a lot easier. You can download it for free from the Tor project’s website, and it works on Mac, Windows, and even Linux. Many sites have their .onion version, but the majority of these sites contain some very nasty things. Some of them may even be illegal, while the majority are some kind of scams and tricks.
- TOR Browser: The most essential tool for accessing the dark web securely.
- VPN: A Virtual Private Network enhances privacy and masks your IP address.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a live operating system like Tails for added security.
This hidden part of the internet is a haven for hackers because of its anonymity. It’s the perfect marketplace for cybercriminals looking to sell or buy stolen passwords, Social Security numbers and other sensitive information. One of the problems with free VPNs is that they have a poor user-to-server ratio, with too many users and not enough servers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access
Here’s a straightforward guide on how to get on the black web:
- Download and Install the TOR Browser: Visit the official TOR Project website and download the browser suitable for your operating system.
- Set Up a VPN: Install a trustworthy VPN to add an extra layer of security before starting the TOR Browser.
- Launch TOR Browser: Open the browser and connect to the TOR network.
- Access .onion Sites: Use directory listings or search engines designed for the black web to find websites ending in .onion.
Safety Precautions
When exploring the black web, safety should be your top priority. Here are some tips:
- Do not share personal information: Avoid sharing any identifiable details.
- Be cautious of links: Many links can lead to malicious sites. Always verify sources.
- Use encrypted communication: If you need to communicate, consider using end-to-end encrypted platforms.
FAQs
1. Is it illegal to access the black web?
Accessing the black web itself is not inherently illegal; however, activities engaged in while on it can be illegal, such as purchasing illicit goods.
2. What can you find on the black web?
The black web hosts a variety of content, including forums, illegal marketplaces, whistleblower platforms, and more.
3. How do I know if a site is safe?
Always do thorough research before accessing any site. Look for community reviews and ensure the website is well-known on forums.
- While the nature of the dark web has led to abuses and exploitations by bad actors, this underside of the internet is not illicit by nature.
- In this article, we’ll explain how you can access the dark web safely on a phone — both iPhone and Android.
- Note that Tails’ installation package is the .img format, which means that you’ll need software capable of burning images on your thumb drive.
- Similarly, stolen bank details are also easily available on the darknet.
4. Can my internet service provider track me?
While using TOR and a VPN, your internet activity is significantly obscured. However, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and understand that no method is 100% foolproof.
Exploring the black web requires caution, knowledge, and the right tools. Always prioritize safety and legality, and be aware of the risks involved.
