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Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for privacy-seeking users, journalists, and activists living under oppressive regimes.
On the other hand, it is much easier for individuals to start sites and get attention. Tech giants and large media organizations have very little influence on the dark web. We’re going to focus on the approach called Tor over VPN, or Onion over VPN. In this approach, you first connect to a secure VPN, then pass messages through the Tor network. With this setup, your messages are encrypted before they enter the Tor network, and decrypted after they leave the network. To function securely, the Tor network nodes need to be running the official Tor software.
Click here to learn How you can protect yourself from identity theft. Should any of your personal information ever be exposed in a data breach, spyware or phishing attack, there’s a good chance it will be taken to the dark web so a buyer can be found. World’s leading professional association of Internet Research Specialists – We deliver Knowledge, Education, Training, and Certification in the field of Professional Online Research. Founded in 2013, the site’s mission is to help users around the world reclaim their right to privacy. Anybody wanting to connect to the dark web on an iPhone or iPad is advised that there is no official Tor app at the moment.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
It’s possible to search the dark web using specialized dark web search engines like Grams or link lists like The Hidden Wiki. However, these sources tend to be slow and unreliable, just like the dark web itself. In fact, there are instances where individuals can use it for good.
Tor (The Onion Router) is the most commonly used browser for the dark web; however, it’s also accessible through networks like Freenet, Riffle, and I2P. You can find both legal and illegal websites/activities on the dark web, as it isn’t regulated in any way. The dark web, on the other hand, is a small portion of the deep web that is intentionally hidden and can only be accessed using special software or configurations, such as the Tor network. The dark web includes various illicit activities, such as black markets, drug sales, illegal pornography, and hacking forums.
NordVPN’s Double VPN feature routes traffic through two servers instead of one. Furthermore, it has a dark web monitoring feature, which crawls the dark web and will alert you if your credentials appear anywhere. As we mentioned above, a VPN is a must-have when accessing the dark web because it encrypts your traffic, making it hard for snoopers to track you. Additionally, you can spoof your location by changing your IP address. To ensure your safety when browsing the dark web, our cybersecurity experts have prepared some tips on how to avoid unnecessary risks. Are you a journalist contributing to ProPublica or other investigative outlets?
Before you learn how to search the dark web, it’s crucial to understand the necessary precautions and tools you need to use:
When you open your default browser, Freenet will be ready and running through its web-based interface. Note you should use a separate browser than the one you normally use to help ensure anonymity. It’s much faster and more reliable than Tor for a number of technical reasons.
- Secure your device: Ensure your operating system and software are up to date.
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network helps protect your identity and location.
- Install Tor Browser: This specialized browser allows you to access .onion websites anonymously.
- Practice good internet hygiene: Avoid clicking on suspicious links and sharing personal information.
If your mobile phone carrier has a security feature that prevents numbers from being ported to new phones, sign up for it. It’s also imperative not to use the same password on more than one account. Whenever you use the same password across multiple accounts, hackers will be able to access all accounts after breaching just one of them.
What Is The Dark Web? How To Access It And What You’ll Find
How to Access the Dark Web
To effectively explore the dark web, follow these steps:
- Install the Tor Browser: Download it from the official Tor Project website to ensure you’re getting a safe version.
- Use a VPN: Before launching Tor, connect to your VPN for added security.
- Launch Tor: Open the Tor Browser. You’ll notice a different search engine experience compared to standard browsers.
- Begin Searching: Use special search engines designed for the dark web. Some popular options include:
- Ahmia
- Not Evil
- DuckDuckGo’s .onion version
- Explain that there is a lot of illegal content in the Dark Web, and that you do not want them to be exposed to this.
- Reuters, Fox, NBC, CNN – all of them keep open dark web channels to receive anonymous tips from whistleblowers.
- And don’t forget that the usual online safety tips apply wherever you surf!
- Search engines on the dark web are a bit of a contradiction because dark web sites by definition are not indexed by traditional search engines.
- Sites on the surface web (or open web) are those visible to average users without the use of Tor or any other special browsers or software.
- This is how anonymity is built and data is protected in the Tor browser system.
Specific Searches in the Dark Web
While searching, you might have specific interests or queries:
- Forums and Community Boards: Engage with communities, but remember to respect their rules.
- Marketplaces: If you’re looking for specific goods or services, know that many may be illegal.
- Information Hubs: Websites devoted to sensitive topics—for example, privacy or whistleblowing—can be valuable resources.
Best Practices for a Safe Experience
When navigating the dark web, abide by the following best practices:
- Limit your personal exposure: Never share real names, addresses, or financial data.
- Avoid downloads: Many downloads may contain malware that can compromise your device.
- Check for reviews: If you are looking to interact with services or forums, check for feedback from other users.
- Stay on reputable sites: Familiarize yourself with trustworthy sites to avoid scams.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is it legal to access the dark web?
A: Yes, accessing the dark web is legal in most countries. However, engaging in illegal activities is not.
Q: Can I be tracked on the dark web?
A: While it’s designed to offer anonymity, no system is foolproof. Using a VPN alongside Tor adds a layer of security.
Q: What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
A: It is advisable to leave the site immediately. Documenting the URL may help authorities if you choose to report it.
Q: Can I use the dark web for legal purposes?
A: Absolutely. Many use it for privacy reasons, researching sensitive topics, or communicating securely.
Conclusion
Knowing how to search the dark web can open up a world of information and resources. However, caution and awareness are paramount. Equip yourself with the right tools, stay safe, and utilize this portion of the internet responsibly.
