What Is The Dark Web And Should You Access It?
You could also use dark web search engines like Torch or DuckDuckGo to find interesting sites. While the Tor network is designed to be anonymous, it is run by volunteers. When you activate Onion Over VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a NordVPN server and then via the Tor network. As a result, you don’t need to use the Tor browser or any specialized browser to access dark web websites. And it doesn’t matter whether you’re using an Android phone or an iPhone. While this is somewhat true, there are a lot of useful websites on the dark web, too.
- While the clandestine goal of the project was left unachieved, some of the researchers saw a massive value proposition in it and launched a nonprofit anonymity-focused browser.
- These apps may contain malware used to collect your data in real-time and share it with criminals.
- Currently, our top two recommendations are NordVPN and Surfshark.
- The dark web is an area of the internet only available via software clients.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access, making it a space where anonymity is prioritized. Individuals often seek to explore the dark web for various reasons, including privacy, freedom of speech, and accessing restricted information.
Essential Tools for Accessing the Dark Web
Alternatively, you can sign up for a dark web monitoring service. Kilos is primarily used to find and access dark web markets where — as the name suggests — illicit drug transactions are one of the main activities. While many search engines steer clear of the dark web’s seedier elements, Kilos embraces it and doesn’t filter search results. With over 1.5 billion indexed pages, Haystack boasts more indexed sites than any other deep web search engine. Haystack does not track your data or compromise your privacy for profit, although the free version will serve you occasional ads.
To learn how to get onto the dark web, you need to equip yourself with the right tools:
- Tor Browser: The most commonly used software to access the dark web. It anonymizes your web traffic by routing it through multiple servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Adds an additional layer of privacy by masking your IP address before your traffic reaches the Tor network.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using an operating system designed for privacy, such as Tails, which runs from a USB stick and leaves no trace on the host machine.
Once connected, you’ll have access to dark net websites called “Tor hidden services”. Instead of “.com” or “.org”, Dark Web addresses trail with a “.onion“. These hidden sites provide services such as selling stolen credit card and bank account information, hacking tools, and weapons. As stated earlier, neither of these connected content repository networks are illegal to access. Indeed, they must frequently be accessed by cybersecurity organizations conducting threat hunts or defending their networks or those of their clients.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Onto the Dark Web
There is a great deal of privacy and anonymity that comes with using the dark web compared to traditional websites. If you exercise due caution and use a combination of the Tor browser and common sense in which sites you access on the dark web, yes, the dark web is safe to use. You may be targeted by law enforcement, exploited by hackers, or threatened by criminals using the dark web for nefarious purposes. In principle, the dark web is just a version of the internet that you can only access using a Tor browser and where it’s almost impossible to identify the users and owners of the websites on there. However, because it’s almost completely anonymous, there are a lot of illegal images, information, products, and services on the dark web. Attempting to even view these can be illegal in many countries and states, so stay well clear of them if you want to keep a clean record and conscience.
- Download and Install the Tor Browser
Visit the official Tor Project website and download the browser. Ensure you are downloading from the legitimate source to avoid malware.
One of the largest concerns is what might happen if kids find a way onto the deep web. Further explore why enterprise dark web monitoring is worth the investment. When you delete a file on your PC, or on a Mac, by sending it to the “Trash,” do you think it’s gone forever? Just like a physical trash can, the contents of your PC’s Recycle Bin or Mac’s Trash Can are still around and can easily end up in the wrong hands. You might remember that Apple got into hot water with the U.S. government after the 2015 San Bernardino terrorist attacks.
- Connect to a VPN
Before launching the Tor Browser, activate your VPN service to enhance your anonymity.
- Launch Tor Browser
After installation, open the Tor Browser. It may take a few moments to connect to the Tor network.
- Explore .onion websites
These sites are specific to the Tor network. Use directories like “The Hidden Wiki” to find resource links.
Many dark websites are perfectly legal and safe to use and, in many cases, are better for your privacy than clear websites. The dark web has no shortage of criminal activity, scams, phishing sites, suspicious links, and malware designed to trick newbies. Links posted to the clear web, in particular, are often malicious. And because there’s very little use of HTTPS on the dark net, verifying whether or not a website is genuine using an SSL certificate is not feasible.
Important Safety Precautions
While exploring the dark web, it is crucial to take safety precautions:
- Do not share personal information: Keep your identity and personal data private.
- Avoid downloading files: Files from the dark web can contain malware that compromises security.
- Be cautious of scams: Not everything is trustworthy; exercise heightened skepticism.
- Use encrypted communications: If interacting with others, consider using secure messaging services like Signal or Wickr.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for various purposes, including privacy-advocating for political dissidents, illegal activities, and access to otherwise censored information.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web can lead to criminal charges.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
It is difficult to be tracked, but not impossible. Using a VPN in conjunction with Tor can enhance anonymity significantly.
What are .onion sites?
These are specific websites that can only be accessed via the Tor network, providing content that is often hidden from standard search engines.
Understanding how to get onto the dark web involves awareness of the tools and risks associated with it. By taking the necessary precautions and utilizing the right resources, individuals can explore this unique aspect of the internet while maintaining their privacy and security.
