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To learn more, check out our guide to the best countries to connect to a VPN server. Then in 2004, Tor was created by the US Naval Research Laboratory to give military personnel an anonymous way to use the internet without giving away their identity or location. This was intended to protect military personnel, while also giving them access to the full internet, even when serving from countries where the internet is heavily vetted by the local government.
Deep web content — which isn’t picked up by search engines, either — includes pages that typically require additional credentials to access. Your online banking accounts and email accounts, for instance, are examples of deep web content. Basically, it’s a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. As an average internet user, you won’t come across the dark web since you need a special browser to access it.
- While using the dark web may seem suspect on the surface, it is perfectly legal, and there are many legitimate uses of Tor and anonymous browsing.
- But I think it’s a shame how it’s missing WebRTC and IPv6 leak protection (ExpressVPN has full leak protection) — still, I never experienced any leaks in my tests.
- For instance, knowing if an organization’s data has been leaked can help security analysts change the relevant credentials and secure their systems before an attack occurs.
- If you get an alert that Aura has discovered your data on Dark Web sites, the most effective action you can take is to contact Aura Customer Support.
The Dark Web: An Overview
The dark web refers to a portion of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It forms part of the broader deep web, which includes all parts of the internet not accessible through standard search avenues. The dark web is often associated with illicit activities, but it also serves legitimate purposes.
I tested all the website links on The Hidden Wiki and almost all of them work (I was able to access sites like Deep Web Radio and ProPublica without any issues). In addition to these tools, you need to exercise extreme caution when browsing on the dark web because there are tons of phishing and malicious sites on there. Only use .onion links that come from legitimate sources like The Hidden Wiki. Results are displayed as user-friendly cards with information on the original threat actor posts, the actor and the site. This information can be viewed in its original language or translated into another. The translation is supplemented with augmented dictionaries, including slang.
Here are a few tips and tools to help stay safe when using Tor and other browsers. There’s a lot more to consider, but this should give you an idea of some of the issues — good and bad — to consider. The deep web can help protect personal information, but that doesn’t mean that clever hackers can’t still crack the sits on it.
What is the Dark Web?
Using a VPN also reduces hackers’ chances of exploiting your system. Most of the dark web’s bad rep comes from all the illegal trade that’s happening there. Hackers and criminals take advantage of anonymity to sell all kinds of illicit goods and services.
Incognito VPN Browser With TOR
The dark web consists of anonymous networks where users can access restricted content and communicate without revealing their identity. It necessitates specialized software, the most notable of which is Tor (The Onion Router).
The dark web is part of the internet that isn’t visible to search engines and requires the use of an anonymizing browser called Tor to be accessed. The Deep Web and Dark Web are both made up of pages that can’t be accessed through traditional search engines. But keep in mind that no matter what layer of the internet you’re using, your accounts and personal information could be at risk. When you search for a site on the Surface Web, your network can be traced back to your IP address.
What’s more, you should always use a VPN (like ExpressVPN) with Tor to protect yourself from IP leaks. I also recommend using an antivirus (like Norton 360) to protect your device from malware infections. The speeds are decent, but ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, and CyberGhost VPN were much faster. CyberGhost VPN allows Tor traffic on all of its servers (11,528 servers in 100 countries). PIA has servers in 91 countries that all support Tor traffic, so it’s very easy to find nearby VPN servers for good speeds.
- Tor: A privacy-focused browser that allows users to access websites ending with .onion domains.
- Freenet: A decentralized platform that fosters censorship-resistant communication.
- I2P: A layer that enables anonymous peer-to-peer connections.
What Can Be Found on the Dark Web?
While the dark web is notorious for illegal activities, it hosts a variety of content, both lawful and unlawful:
- Illegal marketplaces: Platforms for trading drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
- Hacker forums: Spaces to discuss techniques and tools used for hacking.
- Human trafficking: Sadly, some sites facilitate exploitation and trafficking.
- Whistleblower platforms: Secure channels for revealing information, such as WikiLeaks.
- Cryptocurrency trading: Enabling anonymous transactions through digital currencies.
Legitimate Uses of the Dark Web
Despite its negative reputation, the dark web has several legitimate applications:
- Journalism: Journalists can communicate securely with sources in oppressive regimes.
- Privacy advocacy: Individuals can discuss sensitive topics without fear of censorship.
- Research: Academics may study illicit behavior discreetly to understand societal impacts.
Risks Associated with the Dark Web
Exploring the dark web comes with considerable risks. Here are key points to consider:
- Scams: Many sites are designed to defraud users.
- Malware: Increased risk of viruses and malicious software.
- Law Enforcement: Engaging in illegal activities can result in criminal prosecution.
Safety Measures for Exploring the Dark Web
For those choosing to explore the dark web, taking safety precautions is crucial:
- Use a VPN: This provides an additional layer of anonymity.
- Limit personal information: Avoid sharing any identifiable data.
- Install security software: Protect against malware and other threats.
- Stay within the bounds of the law: Be cautious and aware of the legal implications of your actions.
FAQs about the Dark Web
What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web includes all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines, whereas the dark web is a specific subset of the deep web that requires special software for access.
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.
Can you get hacked on the dark web?
Yes, since the dark web is filled with malicious actors, users are at heightened risk of hacking attempts.
The dark web is a complex realm that combines both danger and intrigue. While it is often linked to illicit activities, understanding its full scope—including legitimate uses—is vital in navigating this hidden part of the internet responsibly.
