The internet is a vast universe of information, connecting people from all corners of the globe. However, what lies beyond the surface web is a mysterious realm known as the dark web. Accessing this hidden part of the internet requires specialized knowledge and tools, but it can be both intriguing and dangerous. In this article, we will uncover how you can access the dark web and explore its depths.
Understanding the Dark Web
When data brokers get hacked, the stolen data can include compromised credit cards, social security numbers, and other data, depending on what was exposed in the breach. This is a common way for identity theft and doxing attacks to occur. Some hackers offer ransomware as a service (RaaS), where cybercriminals can “rent” a strain of ransomware from its creator in exchange for a fee or a percentage of their ransom payments. Others sell software exploits that other cybercriminals can use to infect victims with malware and steal personal data.
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Before delving into the process of accessing the dark web, it’s important to understand what it actually is. The dark web refers to websites that exist on an encrypted network and are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google. This anonymity attracts individuals seeking privacy or engaged in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, hacking, or illicit marketplaces.
With the rise of smartphones, many users prefer to access the dark web on phones for convenience and mobility. In this post, we aim to shed light on the dark web, a part of the internet that’s often misunderstood. By the end, you will know how to safely access the dark web on your phone and navigate its waters with an informed sense of caution. More seriously, free VPNs – particularly those offered as standalone services – sometimes make money by selling your data to third parties.
Step 1: Download Tor Browser
To access the dark web, you’ll need to download the Tor browser. Tor stands for “The Onion Router” and is specifically designed to enable anonymous communication online. It routes your internet traffic through several layers of encryption, making it difficult for anyone to trace your online activities.
How to safely access and browse the Dark Web
You can download the Tor browser from the official Tor Project website. It is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, and even Android devices. Take caution and ensure that you only download it from the official source to avoid any malware or phishing attempts.
Step 2: Install and Configure Tor Browser
Is it legal to access the dark web?
We tried out the website ourselves and found it had functioning links to .onion news sites and marketplaces. However, it’s important to note that these links are always changing and might become defunct or compromised at any time. Once you’ve got access to the dark web, there are several tools and strategies you’ll need to follow to stay safe while browsing it. The only equipment you’ll need for this method is your computer and a no-logs VPN subscription.
Once you have downloaded the Tor browser, follow the installation instructions specific to your operating system. After installation, launch the browser and you’ll be greeted with the Tor Network Settings window. Here, you can configure additional settings if required, such as using a proxy or adjusting security levels. For most users, the default settings should suffice.
Step 3: Connect to the Tor Network
After configuring the settings, click on the “Connect” button to establish a connection with the Tor network. The browser will now connect to a series of volunteer-operated servers, known as relays or nodes, which route your traffic through multiple layers of encryption. This helps in maintaining your anonymity while browsing the dark web.
Step 4: Access Dark Web Websites
And most dark web websites are in English — according to one estimate, a staggering 78% of information on the dark web is in English. 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. This means that the total network of live dark web sites is only about 0.005% of the size of the surface web.
With the Tor browser connected, you can now access dark web websites by entering their .onion addresses into the browser’s address bar. These addresses are specific to the Tor network and often look random, consisting of a string of letters and numbers followed by “.onion”. It’s worth noting that not all .onion sites are illegal or harmful; there are many legitimate websites that operate within the dark web.
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- Tor network exit nodes strip off the final layer of encryption protecting a message before sending it on to its final destination.
- Items you would not be able to simply access by clicking on a link from a search engine.
- Besides, your online activity on such browsers is visible to your ISP unless you connect to a VPN service.
- While an endpoint security program can identify such threats if they end up on your computer, it’s ideal to avoid them altogether.
- You might be using a VPN for other reasons too, but to access the deep web it is a ‘must’ because it is the only way to hide your identity, i.e. your IP address.
- Internet safety is more than just protecting your personal information; it’s about maintaining your device’s health and securing your digital footprint from possible cyber threats.
However, it is crucial to exercise caution when exploring the dark web. As it is largely unregulated, you may encounter malicious websites, scams, or illegal activities. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading unknown files, or providing personal information. Remember, safety should always be a top priority.
Conclusion
The dark web remains a mysterious and intriguing part of the internet. While accessing it may seem complex, using the Tor browser provides a relatively safe means to explore this hidden realm. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the dark web and discover its unique offerings. Just remember to tread carefully and be mindful of the potential risks associated with this clandestine corner of the internet.
