Because this offering is so extensive and affordable, the Dark Web is the ideal breeding ground for criminals. Even more of a threat, hackers looking to make a lot of money and profit off people and companies around the world have found a way to do it — fast and at scale. While personal information may seem invaluable to you, cybercriminals trade personal information for a mere few dollars on the black markets that exist on the Dark Web. The most notorious of all Dark Web marketplaces was Silk Road which, at its peak, catered to over 100,000 buyers. Developed in the mid-1990s to keep U.S. intelligence communications from prying eyes, the Tor Project is the preferred method to access Dark Web content. While no one can pinpoint the origins of the Dark Web, it’s now referenced in mainstream conversations about technology and digital security as the seedy source of many security issues.
That means your browsing behavior and traffic patterns can’t be collected and used by third-party advertisers. The dark web is also a dynamic and ever-changing space, with new sites and services constantly emerging and others being taken down by law enforcement or other actors. Therefore, any estimate of its size is likely to be imprecise and quickly outdated. On your Android or iOS device, download and install a browser app capable of accessing the Tor network on mobile. For Android we recommend Tor Browser, as it is built by The Tor Project. Despite there being no official iOS app built by Tor Project, they have endorsed Onion Browser—an open source Tor browser.
Understanding the Dark Web
The internet is a vast network that can be segmented into various layers, one of which is the dark web. This portion is not indexed by conventional search engines and is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a haven for privacy advocates, whistleblowers, and others who require anonymity.
They’re instead a garbled mess of numbers and letters that are often changed to prevent tracking. This, of course, isn’t entirely true, as you can find some educational and useful – above all LEGAL – sites that you can’t find on the surface web. Having that in mind, I’ll explain how to get to the dark web and to it safely, which is pretty important for the reasons explained below.
The reason for this is that the dark web is full of potentially dangerous content, and a VPN will help to keep your identity and personal information safe. Without a VPN, you could be putting yourself at risk of being hacked or scammed. Alternatively, users can connect in opennet mode, which automatically assigns peers on the network.
Despite its heavy encryption and mysterious nature, getting on to the Dark Web is actually fairly easy. All you need are the right tools and knowledge of where you’ll be navigating. There’s much more to the internet than you might expect on the surface. But whether or not visiting the Dark Web is worth your time is another matter altogether. The platform is dedicated to keeping the community well-informed and up-to-date with the constantly evolving Cyber World.
Onion Over VPN servers automatically route your traffic through the Tor network, so they allow you to visit dark web sites in regular browsers like Firefox and Chrome, which is very convenient. ExpressVPN provides high-end security features that are ideal for surfing the dark web. It has a no-logs policy that has been independently audited and verified and it uses RAM-only servers, meaning every server reset wipes all data.
When your traffic is routed through the Tor network, the last jump from a Tor node to your destination is not encrypted. Because Tor exit nodes are notoriously used for criminal behavior, some services will detect and blacklist activity originating from a Tor exit node. If you connect to most IRC chat rooms through Tor, for instance, IRC will only see that the IP address connecting to it is an address on a Tor network exit node, and you will be K-lined (IP banned). The dark web is a hidden layer of the deep web, where users are anonymous and activity isn’t tracked. There are legitimate reasons to use the dark web, like protecting whistleblowers or sharing confidential information. But some users exploit the dark web and use it for illegal activities, such as buying or selling stolen personal information.
How to Access the Dark Web
- But on the other hand, the Dark Web also serves legitimate purposes.
- However, DuckDuckGo doesn’t keep track of your usage and also shows .onion websites in its results.
- Layers of encryption are taken off at each step (hence the onion metaphor) as the message reaches its intended target.
- Tor stands for “The Onion Router,” referencing the multiple layers of security that it employs to protect users’ privacy.
- It is a good place to get help and ask questions about the dark web when you are a total noob.
Accessing the dark web requires specific tools and knowledge. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to access the dark web safely.
1. Download and Install Tor Browser
The primary method to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser.
Latest Dark Web News – January 2024
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser appropriate for your operating system.
- Install the browser by following the on-screen instructions.
2. Configure Your Tor Settings
Before diving into the dark web, it’s crucial to adjust some settings for better security.
- When you first launch Tor, go to the settings menu.
- Enable security features that might be available, such as NoScript.
- Consider using the “Safest” security level which disables potentially risky features.
3. Use a VPN for Additional Privacy
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can add a layer of protection.
- Select a reliable VPN provider that respects user privacy.
- Connect to the VPN before opening the Tor Browser.
4. Familiarize Yourself with .onion Sites
Once you are in the Tor environment, you will need to know how to find .onion sites, which are unique to the dark web.
- Access directories such as “The Hidden Wiki” to find .onion links.
- Be cautious; many links may lead to unsafe sites.
Best Practices for Navigating the Dark Web
Staying safe while browsing the dark web is essential. Follow these best practices:
- Do not share personal information.
- Avoid clicking unknown links and downloading files.
- Regularly update your Tor Browser for security patches.
- Be aware of scams and illegal content; some sites are traps.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for various purposes, including anonymous communication, the exchange of information on sensitive topics, and illicit trade. However, it also protects individuals in oppressive regimes.
Is accessing the dark web legal?
Yes, accessing the dark web is legal. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is against the law.
Can my internet service provider see my dark web activity?
If you use Tor properly and combine it with a VPN, your ISP should not be able to see your specific activity on the dark web. However, they can see that you are using Tor.
What risks are there in accessing the dark web?
Risks include exposure to illegal content, online scams, malware, and potential legal consequences if engaging in unlawful activities.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be intriguing and beneficial if approached cautiously. By following the outlined steps and adhering to best practices, users can navigate this hidden part of the internet while maintaining their safety and privacy.
