The internet is a vast network filled with information and opportunities. While most of us are familiar with the surface web that can be accessed through search engines like Google, there exists another hidden part known as the Dark Web. Within this mysterious realm lies a network of websites that cannot be indexed by traditional search engines, offering users a certain level of anonymity. One popular gateway to the Dark Web is through onion links, and Reddit has become an essential platform for sharing and discussing these links.
Tor and the Onion Browser
In more technical terms, the dark web is the part of the web where sites are hosted on so-called darknets — computer networks overlaid on other networks. Like regular “surface” sites, dark web sites use internet protocols, but the darknet networks that are overlaid on normal networks can’t be accessed through regular web browsers. The BBC and other well-known news services are blocked in some parts of the world. But people can still access independent media via BBC Tor Mirror and similar dark web news portals.
Understanding Onion Links
How to set up a personal VPN server on any device
In order to access the Dark Web, users often rely on Tor, a privacy-focused browser that enables anonymous browsing. Tor conceals users’ identities and encrypts their internet traffic, making it difficult for anyone to trace their online activities. Onion links, also known as Tor links, are URLs ending with the “.onion” domain. These links can only be accessed using the Tor browser.
Onion links provide access to various types of content on the Dark Web, including forums, marketplaces, blogs, and more. Due to the nature of the Dark Web, caution is advised when exploring these links, as illegal activities and explicit content might exist.
Reddit as a Hub for Onion Links
Reddit, a popular social media platform, has established itself as a central hub for discussions surrounding the Dark Web and onion links. There are several subreddits dedicated specifically to the sharing and discovery of onion links, where users can find and discuss various sites on the Dark Web.
onion-link-checking
1. /r/onions:
Impreza Hosting is a service that helps you host a site on the Tor network. It provides an .onion URL and an interface for you to manage your Tor site easily. It also boasts that no personal information is required to use the service, and payment can be made with cryptocurrency. Keybase is an exciting identity service that aims to make it easy for you to link the presence of your online identities together in a cryptographic way. You can upload your PGP key or have the site create one for you, and use it to cryptographically link your Twitter profile, Github account, or Bitcoin address together. Based in Switzerland, ProtonMail is an encrypted email service that is very popular with cryptocurrency enthusiasts.
The CreepShots subreddit was subsequently banned, but successors have been popping up throughout the year. You’re in luck as the dark web features its very own digital radio station. Moreover, it also revisits previously indexed websites to refresh and eliminate any downed or offline sites. Specifically, ficerc wanted to figure out the SPF level of the sunscreen seen in the trailer.
/r/onions is one of the most active subreddits focused on onion links. This community provides a platform for users to share and discuss new onion links, along with reviews, experiences, and warnings about certain sites. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to explore the Dark Web safely.
2. /r/deepweb:
While technically not an onion site, we’re including Sci-Hub as an interesting example of a site you can access via Tor. Sci-Hub gives access to millions of scientific papers, mostly ones from behind paywalls. However, due to copyright infringement, Sci-Hub is considered illegal and banned in many countries.
/r/deepweb is another subreddit where users can find onion links. This community emphasizes discussions related to the broader concept of the deep web, which encompasses both legal and illegal content beyond just the Dark Web. Users share informative posts, news articles, and even conduct Q&A sessions, creating an engaging platform for those interested in exploring the depths of the internet.
- Onion sites aren’t inherently dangerous, but they can be.
- If you think you’ve fallen victim to identity theft or fraud, be sure to report the internet scam just like you would any other crime.
- Addresses that end with “.onion” point to Tor hidden services on the “deep web”.
- Onion sites (aka Tor sites) are websites only accessible on the dark web; you can’t view them using a regular browser.
- When using the deep web, you’ll need a VPN to maintain your privacy and anonymity.
3. /r/Tor:
Consider using a VPN
/r/Tor is a subreddit dedicated to all things related to Tor, including onion links. While not exclusively focused on the Dark Web, this subreddit offers valuable insights into using Tor securely and efficiently. Users often share onion links, along with helpful tips, troubleshooting advice, and discussions on privacy concerns.
Discovering the Dark Web through Reddit
She sat there for a minute, struggling, panicking, and screaming for someone to help. At first, I couldn’t tell who they were, but as they turned around to face the camera, my heart sank. My father was holding a knife, while my mother was holding a small scalpel. They paused for a moment, before they started what was the most horrifying 5 minutes of my entire life.
Reddit’s active communities make it an ideal starting point for individuals curious about exploring the Dark Web via onion links. However, it is essential to exercise caution and remember that not everything found on the Dark Web is legal or safe. When venturing into this realm, users should prioritize their safety and anonymity by following best practices, such as avoiding sharing personal information and being vigilant against potential scams or malicious websites.
In conclusion, onion links provide access to the vast and mysterious world of the Dark Web. Reddit’s subreddits dedicated to onion links serve as valuable resources for those seeking to explore this hidden part of the internet. By utilizing the Tor browser and exercising caution, users can embark on their journey into the Dark Web, discovering its secrets and understanding its complexities.
