Understanding the Dark Web
This guide covers everything you need to know on accessing the dark web via your iPhone safely and anonymously. While Tor is perfectly legal to use, it’s common knowledge that a lot of criminal activity does happen on it. Rather than weeding out the genuine web users from the criminals, many website owners find it easier just to block all Tor users. It’s a multiplatform problem-fixer that protects your entire digital life through a single app. Please don’t download anything you’re not 100% certain is legitimate to avoid the risk of compromising your data. There are a lot of VPNs in the market, but not all VPNs were created equal.
The ability to access only known contacts provides a higher degree of trust than other software. The dark web is infamous for illicit underground dark web marketplaces selling contraband across international borders. The Silk Road rose to notoriety in 2011 after a longform article was featured on the then popular site, Gawker.
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines. It can only be accessed using specialized tools, most commonly the Tor browser. Navigating this hidden part of the web requires knowledge and caution.
How to Access the Dark Web
Government Monitoring
Using a free service is simply not worth the risk when you can get a high-quality VPN backed by a risk-free, money-back guarantee. Hackers on the dark web can easily access your personal data using trojans, phishing, and other types of fraudulent websites or programs. Sometimes all it takes is a simple misclick before all the information stored on your computer gets leaked.
If your personal data or passwords ever end up for sale on a dark web marketplace, you’ll need a data-monitor tool to learn about the breach. AVG BreachGuard monitors dark web marketplaces and alerts you of any known leaks involving your personal accounts. Privately connecting to the dark web helps to avoid censorship and to get around content blocks. Where access to popular social media or news sites is censored, dark web links of the same sites can help you stay informed. The surface web makes up only about 10% of the entire internet, and includes anything you can find by entering terms into a search engine like Google. All the websites you visit that don’t require login credentials are part of the surface web.
To answer the question, how do you get on the dark web, follow these steps:
- Download Tor Browser: The first step is to download the Tor browser from the official website. This browser allows users to access .onion websites that are only available on the dark web.
- Install the Browser: Follow the instructions for installation. Make sure to adjust the settings to enhance your privacy and security.
- Connect to the Tor Network: Once the Tor browser is installed, launch it. The browser will connect to the Tor network, enabling anonymous browsing.
- Explore Safely: Begin exploring by visiting websites with .onion domains. Use trusted directories to find legitimate sites.
In addition, the Tor browser, Tor applications and operating systems should be kept up to date, and companies might want to limit or monitor their use. To access the Dark Net, users must download the TOR network, a decentralized network of servers that allows users to browse the internet anonymously. I strongly advise all users who want to access the dark web on their iPhones to utilize a VPN because it provides additional protection and privacy. Needless to say, it has 3 security audits – 2 from PwC and 1 from Deloitte, both of which are backed by a plethora of security features that millions of users enjoy.
Therefore, any estimate of its size is likely to be imprecise and quickly outdated. Onion services (formerly known as Tor Hidden Services) are the hidden services that you can reach through the Tor network and a compatible web browser. It has been hacked before, and there is evidence that it is being hacked right now.
In general, most average internet users will never need to access content on the dark web, although it is perfectly legal to use Tor. To access dark web pages, you need to enter the URL into the Tor browser. Business on the dark web is primarily conducted through dark web forums and marketplaces. Silk Road, AlphaBay and Hydra are examples of dark web marketplaces that were once thriving but have since been shut down by authorities.
Safety and Security Precautions
- Debit and credit cards, social security numbers, and banking information are just a few examples of the personal data that is stolen and posted on the dark web.
- However, in practice, security flaws in Tor and incorrect server configurations can expose this information to those interested in accessing it.
- NordVPN offers obfuscated servers in several countries, including Germany, Spain, Hong Kong, and the United States.
Accessing the dark web comes with certain risks. To protect yourself:
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an extra layer of security by disguising your IP address.
- Be Cautious with Links: Avoid clicking on unverified links. Many sites can host malware.
- Limit Personal Information: Never share personal information on dark web platforms.
- Disable Scripts: Use browser settings to disable JavaScript, which can be a vulnerability.
FAQs About the Dark Web
Q1: Is the dark web illegal?
A1: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, many activities and services offered on the dark web may be illegal.
Q2: What can you find on the dark web?
A2: The dark web hosts various content, including forums, marketplaces, and news sources, alongside illegal content.
Q3: Do I need special software to access the dark web?
A3: Yes, you typically need the Tor browser or similar software to access dark web websites.
Q4: Can you be tracked on the dark web?
A4: While the dark web offers more anonymity than the surface web, it is still possible to be tracked if precautions are not taken.
Conclusion
Exploring the dark web requires careful planning and respect for the risks involved. By following the outlined steps and maintaining safety measures, you can navigate this enigmatic part of the internet more securely.