How To Stay Safe On The Dark Web
- Sites that anonymously relay whistleblowing information use the Dark Web to protect their users.
- The dark web continues to be a valuable tool and exchange network for many groups around the world.
- 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.
- This is achieved by directing internet traffic through a global network of servers, which conceals the user’s identity and location.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines. It’s often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for privacy and freedom of speech.
What You Need to Know Before Accessing the Dark Web
Before diving into how to get on the dark web, it’s crucial to understand the risks and necessary precautions:
So, there are plenty of reasons to log on to the deep web, but are there legitimate reasons to seek out the dark web? To access those specific darknet networks, you will need to use the specific browsers developed for them. However, bear in mind that they are often less user-friendly than Tor (which makes accessing the dark web easy). Most people have heard of the dark web and the illicit marketplaces available on it.
- Privacy Risks: Identities can be easily exposed.
- Legal Consequences: Accessing certain content might lead to legal trouble.
- Security Threats: The dark web is rife with scams and cyber threats.
You can sign up for the service completely anonymously, use a cryptographically signed installer, and double up on encryption using MultiHop servers. Proton VPN is part of the Proton family of services provided by Proton Technologies AG. While ProtonMail has a solid commitment to privacy, its location has caused problems for users in the past. In 2021, it was forced by the Swiss courts to begin logging the IP addresses and browser fingerprint information of one of its customers. The most common way to safely access the dark web is by connecting to a VPN and then opening the Tor browser. Keep in mind, using VPN over Tor is not advised — even by the Tor browser itself.
ExpressVPN protects your internet traffic using 256-bit AES channel strong encryption together with 4096-bit DHE-RSA keys and a SHA512 hash authentication. The company has an independently audited no-logs policy and its comprehensive server network is RAM-only. It comes with DNS leak protection, and works well if you’re aiming to improve online privacy. Surfshark is a low-cost provider that ticks all the boxes for use with the dark web. It has a large network of secure servers, the ability to keep connections private, and apps that are rich in security features.
The data for sale on 2Easy comes from over 600,000 compromised devices, most of which have infostealing malware installed on them. In this way, your browsing experience is made as anonymous as possible – if someone was ‘watching’ you, so to speak, all they’d be able to see is that you’re using Tor. For information about this, check out our guide on how to get on the dark web. Importantly, each node is representative of an additional layer of encryption. No node can track the complete path the traffic has taken, and more importantly, neither can anyone who finds it on the other side. Only the entry node can view your IP address (more on how to stop this happening later).
Namely, you can first connect to a VPN and then connect to Tor – or vice versa. If you wish, you can even use DuckDuckGo or other search engines that operate on the Dark Web. The important thing is that you download it from the official site or Google Play (Android)/Apple Store (Mac). It’s free to download, so you won’t have to pay a single cent to get it. Now that you know that using a VPN is mandatory for safe and secure dark web access, let’s see how to combine it with Tor to achieve the result you want. One of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s illegal to get on the dark web.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely access the dark web:
Be wary when clicking suspicious links or downloading malware – especially on social media! Be wary when revealing any sensitive or private data online that could compromise it all. Dark Web websites host illegal activities like drug and weapon marketplaces, accessible via search browser programs like Tor which obscure network addresses. Here’s a guide that will help you learn about the dark web, the sites that populate it, and how you can visit it safely using the added protection of a VPN and antivirus software. The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. You’ve no doubt heard talk of the “dark web” as a hotbed of criminal activity — and it is.
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Install a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) protects your identity by masking your IP address. Choose a reputable provider with strong encryption.
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Download the Tor Browser
The Tor Browser allows you to access .onion sites on the dark web. Download it from the official Tor Project website to ensure security.
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Configure Secure Settings
Launch the Tor Browser and adjust security settings according to your needs. Higher security settings can limit features but enhance privacy.
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Accessing the Dark Web
You can now enter .onion addresses to access dark web sites. Be cautious, as many sites can be misleading or dangerous.
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
Take the following precautions to ensure your safety while exploring:
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Always remain anonymous and avoid sharing any personal details.
- Use Strong Passwords: Protect your accounts with complex passwords and consider using password managers.
- Be Wary of Transactions: If you engage in any transactions, understand the risks associated with cryptocurrency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you find on the Dark Web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, markets, and privacy-focused websites. However, a significant portion consists of illegal activities and explicit content.
Is using the Dark Web legal?
Accessing the dark web itself is legal in many countries, but engaging in illegal activities is against the law. Always be aware of the laws in your jurisdiction.
Can you be tracked on the Dark Web?
While using a VPN and the Tor Browser enhances privacy, no method is foolproof. Authorities may still track users through various means, so exercise caution.
What are some safe sites on the Dark Web?
There are legitimate websites focused on privacy and security, such as forums for whistleblowers or activists. Always verify the integrity of sites before interacting with them.
In conclusion, knowing how to get on the dark web involves understanding both the technical steps and the associated risks. Equip yourself with the right tools and knowledge for a safer experience.
