The Dark Web: What Is It And Why Do People Use It?
Tor network exit nodes strip off the final layer of encryption protecting a message before sending it on to its final destination. This means the node can see the contents of the message, even though it doesn’t know who sent the message. The Brave browser is a privacy-oriented Surface web browser that can also connect to the Tor network. To provide more secure access to the Tor network, in 2020 Brave launched its own Tor Onion Service. Ultimately, the Dark web has the allure of a place that most people can’t visit. Since you are reading this, we suspect that you feel the pull of this place and want to take a look for yourself.
Understanding How to Access the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, making it a realm filled with both risks and opportunities. Knowing how to access the dark web safely is essential for anyone interested in exploring this hidden part of the internet.
What is the Dark Web?
The TOR Browser uses complex algorithms to anonymize a site’s IP address. It is imperative to download the browser from the TOR Projects dedicated site and no other. There are thousands of fake TOR websites loaded with malware for the unwitting. Accessing the dark web requires a specialized browser called Tor, which enables access to sites.
The dark web is a segment of the internet that requires specific software to access. It is often confused with the deep web, which includes all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines like Google. The dark web is intentionally hidden and often associated with illegal activities, yet it also serves as a space for privacy-focused individuals and free speech advocates.
This could include government services to access your records, health care services, members-only areas, intranets, or corporate resources. No longer restricted to dial-up, many of us now consider access to a stable high-speed internet connection a critical element of our daily lives. We pay our bills online, check our bank statements, communicate via email, find information, and maintain a presence on social media.
Selling or buying goods and services on a black market can lead to legal repercussions, even if you’re unaware that the marketplace is illegal. There are other ways for spies, hackers or other adversaries to target Tor. Lewis points to the “first contact problem”, when an attacker spots when someone moves from non-private tools to private ones, noting it’s been used to identify whistleblowers. Google doesn’t index these sites, but other search engines do, including DuckDuckGo, and there are lists — including one run by Muffett — so you can find what you’re looking for. Researchers from Recorded Future estimated that while there are more than 55,000 existing onion domains, only 8,400 (or roughly 15%) of these sites were active.
By accessing the dark web without a VPN, you will reveal yourself to cyber attacks. Onion sites can urge you to click on any link with malicious content which can take all your data. Therefore, it is always a prudent thing to get a VPN, when you are exposed to risk. They are not backed by strong encryption techniques and they can expose you. The dark web is full of cyber security threats, and you could be a sufferer if you take risks. The most common way to access the dark web or deep web is by using the Tor network, and doing so is not nearly as complicated as you might think.
How to Access the Dark Web
Website creators and managers can mark pages as non-indexable if desired. Despite claiming to offer privacy, they can track what you do on the darknet and potentially sell that info to anyone interested. Top safety measures should be taken when accessing a potentially dangerous place like the dark web. Tor Metrics is the website that measures who and where uses the network. As a bonus, ProPublica is one of the most polished web experiences you’ll have on the dark web.
However, dark content, as the name implies is best known for illicit and generally, distressing stuff. Here is an example of some illicit items you may find on the dark web. Wired published an article back in 2014 called “Use privacy services? The NSA is probably tracking you” which explains how the NSA is tagging people who were identified as TOR users. Other sites require additional security measures and only allow specific users to enter. Remember, this is a whole different universe that you know nothing about, and the whole experience is kind of like traveling back in time.
To access the dark web, follow these steps:
- Download a Special Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser, which anonymizes users’ internet activity.
- Install Security Software: Ensure your device has updated antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against potential threats.
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network adds an extra layer of anonymity to your browsing experience, making it difficult to trace your activities.
- Adjust Browser Settings: Modify the Tor Browser’s security settings to maximize your privacy.
- Find Dark Web Links: Accessing the dark web requires specific URLs, often ending in .onion, which can be found on forums or directories on the regular internet.
The deep web fulfills a range of needs, from allowing people to host and access digital content away from the prying eyes of authoritarian governments, to facilitating a range of illegal activities. The dark web is a part of the internet that can usually only be accessed using a specialized browser. While it’s infamous for drug-slinging and other criminal activities, people also turn to the dark web for valuable anonymous activities like bypassing censorship, journalism, and whistle-blowing. The darknet web operates with a high degree of privacy as it hosts safe activities and content and criminal ones.
Safety Precautions While Accessing the Dark Web
When attempting to access the dark web, it is crucial to follow safety precautions to minimize risks:
- Abuse and persecution victims, whistleblowers, and political dissidents have been frequent users of these hidden sites.
- Go behind enemy lines to identify threat actors and their intentions at the earliest stages so you can properly prepare your defenses.
- A VPN creates a secure and private connection between your device and the internet.
- You can sign up for the service completely anonymously, use a cryptographically signed installer, and double up on encryption using MultiHop servers.
- Be wary when clicking suspicious links or downloading malware – especially on social media!
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information or using your real name.
- Beware of Scams: Many illegal services on the dark web can be scams. Exercise caution and do thorough research.
- Use Encrypted Communication: If you interact with others, consider using encrypted messaging services for safety.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Downloading files from the dark web can expose your device to malware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web is against the law.
What types of content can be found on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including:
- Forums for privacy enthusiasts
- Whistleblower platforms
- Marketplaces for illegal goods
- Political activism resources
Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While the Tor network provides a degree of anonymity, it is not foolproof. Users can still be tracked through various methods, including:
- Malware
- Traffic analysis
- Plausible deniability breaches
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to access the dark web is just the first step. It is essential to prioritize your safety and privacy while exploring this hidden realm. By utilizing the appropriate tools and adhering to best practices, users can navigate the dark web safely and responsibly.
