Encountering Disturbing Content
Understanding the Dark Web
- It includes any page that you can find with a simple Google search.
- The Dark Web is used by cybercriminals to buy and sell illegal goods and services, coordinate attacks, distribute malware and phishing kits, and share other prebuilt exploits.
- One of the major advantages of using US credit cards is that no verification through mobile is done on the purchase, which easily allows cybercriminals to make purchases.
- Use a search engine that works only on the Dark Web, such as DuckDuckGo or Startpage, which are private search engines only available there.
You won’t be able to search the dark web with a regular browser (such as Chrome or Firefox). Besides, your online activity on such browsers is visible to your ISP unless you connect to a VPN service. A VPN allows a user to encrypt all the internet traffic traveling to and from his or her device and route it through a server in a location of that user’s choosing. A VPN, in combination with Tor, further adds to the security and anonymity of the user. Internet providers and websites can detect when Tor is being used because Tor node IPs are public. Although websites can’t identify you and ISPs can’t decrypt your internet traffic, they can see that Tor is being used.
Once you’re armored up with your VPN, it’s time to get your key to access the dark web on your phone – the Tor Browser. This free app is like a secret passageway, designed especially for dark web navigation, and it excels at keeping your online journey under wraps. A 2019 study by PreciseSecurity.com showed that approximately 30% of North Americans have used the dark web regularly, and the numbers have only grown since then. With the rise of smartphones, many users prefer to access the dark web on phones for convenience and mobility.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It exists on the hidden layers of the web and requires specific software to access. Many people are curious about how to access the dark web, either for legitimate reasons such as privacy and security or for more nefarious purposes.
What You Need to Know Before Accessing the Dark Web
We understand you’re excited to access the dark web now that you’ve found out how to enter the dark web. However, we urge you to study the infographic on dark web risks below. Knowing how to get on the dark web is one thing, but how do you search the dark web? Below, you can find our recommended dark web tools for exploring this part of the internet. Make sure to follow all the steps outlined in this guide to ensure that you remain anonymous and safe. Whether you’re for or against using the dark web, it helps to know what it is and how to navigate it.
For the purposes of this tutorial, we will talk about the most popular and widely known network, Tor. Opennet connections are easier to use, but darknet connections provide more security against attackers on the network. But remember, it’s essential to take all the necessary and important security steps before entering such sites on the dark web.
This .onion link directory comes highly recommended by users on Reddit and Daunt. Tor.Taxi has links across the dark web to different markets, news sites, forums, and services. However, these search engines have a lot of links to websites that are either no longer available or scams. To access the dark web on a computer, use the Tor Browser on Tails OS or with a VPN. If you’re using a mobile device, you can access the dark web using a VPN and the Tor Browser on Android, or Orbot and the Onion Browser on iOS. However, phones are much less secure and private than computers, and we don’t recommend using them to access the dark web if you’re concerned about safety.
Before you dive into the world of the dark web, here are some essential points to consider:
- Legality: While not everything on the dark web is illegal, many activities that take place there are. Be aware of the laws in your jurisdiction.
- Risks: The dark web can expose you to various threats, including scams, malware, and illegal content. Always prioritize your safety.
- Anonymity: Your internet activities may be tracked, so enhancing your anonymity is crucial when exploring the dark web.
Onion sites are only accessible via the Tor Browser or similar services. They are not accessible through your mainstream browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. Pastebins are text sharing services, useful for sending and sharing large snippets of code or text. ZeroBin offers an extra secure version of this service by only encrypting and decrypting text in the browser, meaning their servers have no knowledge of what is passing through it. Unlike Ahmia and Haystak, however, DuckDuckGo doesn’t search .onion sites. Use it to search the normal internet from the privacy of your Tor Browser.
This is a blog with cybersecurity tips created by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a popular non-profit that specializes in digital privacy. The blog contains tons of useful guides about how you can avoid online surveillance. Before you activate Tor, close every open internet program and fire up your VPN. Use the VPN protocol to connect to a city that’s far away from where you’re currently living. This will keep your ISP from knowing you are using Tor, and it will keep the Tor entry node from seeing your true IP address. Let’s start with a classic installation, by accessing the Tor Project website, via a browser.
Steps on How to Access the Dark Web
To access the dark web, follow these steps:
- Install the Tor Browser:
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor browser. Visit the official Tor Project website and download the appropriate version for your operating system.
- Set Up a VPN:
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an additional layer of security. Choose a reputable VPN provider and install their software.
- Connect to the Internet:
Ensure your VPN is active and connect to the internet. This will provide an encrypted connection.
- Open the Tor Browser:
Launch the Tor browser. It may take a few moments to connect, as it routes your traffic through multiple servers for anonymity.
- Access .onion Sites:
Once the browser is open, you can access .onion sites by entering their URLs directly into the address bar. These sites are only accessible via the Tor browser.
Best Practices for Safe Browsing on the Dark Web
To ensure a safer experience while navigating the dark web, consider the following best practices:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid disclosing any identifiable information while on the dark web.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If you must make transactions, cryptocurrencies provide more anonymity than traditional payment methods.
- Stay Aware of Scams: Approach offers and services with caution; many are scams or can lead to harmful consequences.
- Practice Digital Hygiene: Regularly update your software, use antivirus protection, and clear your browsing history after your session.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on it can lead to serious consequences.
2. Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While the dark web offers a degree of anonymity, sophisticated tracking methods may still identify your activities. Using VPNs and Tor can reduce this risk but not eliminate it entirely.
3. What types of content can I find on the dark web?
The dark web contains a wide variety of content, including forums, illegal marketplaces, and websites focused on privacy. Be cautious, as some may expose you to illegal or harmful activities.
4. Are there safe websites on the dark web?
Yes, there are legitimate websites on the dark web that provide useful information or services. Always verify the credibility of a site before engaging with it.
Understanding how to access the dark web and navigating it safely is crucial for anyone interested. Always prioritize your safety and legality while exploring this hidden part of the internet.