🥈2 Private Internet Access — Best For Visiting Sites On The Dark Web On Mobile
- Like I2P, Freenet is a self-contained network within the network that can’t be used to access sites on the public web.
- Moreover, its nature can also expose you to some cyber threats, so safety is key.
- The less you change, the more you blend in with other users’ traffic.
- In attempting to access the Dark Web, there’s an invisible line that a person acknowledges they’re crossing – or maybe they don’t.
- A lot of illegal activity occurs on the dark web, and onion websites are popular hangouts for cybercriminals and scammers.
- It is difficult to determine the exact size of the dark web, as it is not indexed by traditional search engines, and its contents are often hidden behind layers of encryption and anonymity.
Freenet’s release to the public in 2000 helped activists to bring attention to the need for a way to stay anonymous online. It was followed by the Tor network, created by the US intelligence community to communicate in secret. Released to the public in 2004, Tor later became a browser offering easier access to the dark web. While the dark web can be accessed by various browsers, Tor (The Onion Router) is the most popular and well-known. You can access the dark web on mobile with a dedicated dark web browser app.
Understanding the Dark Web
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 dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines, making it a unique but often misunderstood area of the online world. To access the dark web safely and effectively, one must follow specific steps to ensure privacy and security.
There are online repositories that include reliable dark web websites and keep the lists up to date. You can also search for dark web sites via specific search engines made for the dark web, like Ahmia, Torch, and DuckDuckGo. Many Tor users also recommend the benefits of using a VPN, which provides maximum encryption and helps to hide your IP address and internet activity. Normal sites on the deep net (like your online banking site or email account) sit behind secure logins, paywalls, passwords, and authentication forms, but you don’t need any special software. By contrast, to access dark web websites, you need special tools or software like Tor Browser. Given its anonymous nature, the dark web is also used for illicit and even illegal purposes.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Unlike other search engines, Duck Duck Go does not track your activity or store your personal information. It is a great tool for finding dark web pages and staying safe while doing it. It works like a regular web browser but is much slower because of its multiple layers of encryption.
For example, some of our favorite social media platforms, like Twitter and Facebook, have set up mirror sites on the dark web for people who don’t want to be watched by the government. Some users looking for how to access the dark web can do that simply because they want to check whether their personal data is for sale. Although the entire dark web is part of the deep web, it isn’t true in reverse. Simply put, the deep web is any part of the Net that is not indexed by search engines.
And around the world, users may want to use Tor or the dark web to evade government censorship and surveillance. The Tor network makes it easier to hide your identity and allows people to anonymously create and host onion services. As a result, criminals often use the dark web to buy and sell illicit goods and services.
Here’s a guide on how to get dark web access:
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Download a Secure Browser
- The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser.
- Visit the official Tor Project website to ensure you’re downloading the secure and latest version.
As a bonus, ProPublica is one of the most polished web experiences you’ll have on the dark web. You can also use Tor to read The New York Times and other news sites or use their SecureDrop integration for whistleblowing purposes. If you’re looking for dark web links, you probably know about Tor — The Onion Router. Tor directs Internet traffic consisting of more than seven thousand relays. This helps you hide a user’s location and stops anyone from conducting traffic analysis or network surveillance. In fact, Darknet commerce sites have the same features as any e-retail operation.
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Install the Browser
- Follow the installation instructions carefully. Make sure to adjust your security settings to “Safest.”
- Do not use your regular browser for dark web activities.
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Connect to Tor Network
- Open the Tor browser and click on “Connect” to link with the Tor network.
- This may take a few moments; be patient.
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Access Dark Web Sites
- Use .onion sites specifically designed for the Tor network.
- You can find directories of .onion links on the clear web, but exercise caution, as many may lead to illegal content.
Safety Precautions When on the Dark Web
While learning how to get dark web access, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety:
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network adds an extra layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Disable Scripts: Preventing scripts from running can mitigate risks; use the NoScript extension if necessary.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Maintain anonymity by avoiding sharing any personal details.
- Be Wary of Scams: The dark web has many scammers; always vet sources before engaging in transactions.
FAQ about Accessing the Dark Web
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is often associated with illicit activities, but it is also a space for privacy-focused communication and is used by individuals living under oppressive regimes.
Is accessing the dark web legal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities while on it can lead to serious legal consequences.
Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While the dark web is designed to enhance anonymity, it is still possible to be tracked if proper precautions are not taken. Use a VPN and the Tor browser for better security.
What should I avoid on the dark web?
- Don’t download files unless you’re certain of their safety.
- Avoid engaging with sites that have illegal services or content.
- Refrain from sharing any identifiable information.
Learning how to get dark web access opens up a unique digital landscape; however, it’s vital to navigate it carefully and responsibly to ensure your security and privacy remain intact.