Understanding the Darknet
The dark web is a decentralized web, which means that the data is stored on many different servers around the world. It has been estimated that a large percentage of dark web traffic is related to illegal pornography that includes underage victims. As you are now familiar with the three different sections within the entire world wide web, let’s take a closer look at how you can access the dark web anonymously. We’ve also previously mentioned the “dark users” that use the dark web for illegal reasons, but the less said about them, the better. Those who access the dark web do so via the Tor (The Onion Router) browser. The release of Freenet in 2000 is considered by many as the start or founding of the dark web.
Millions of customers’ personal data, including names, addresses, bank account and credit card account information, and many other forms of sensitive data. Social networks, such as Facebook, have created dark web versions of their sites to address privacy problems related to their surface web versions. ExpressVPN had created a .onion version of its website to allow greater privacy and anonymity for Tor browser users.
The darknet refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities but can also serve as a platform for privacy and free speech.
Beyond that, it’s also refreshing to read news and stories which aren’t hyped or pushed by marketing algorithms. While visiting isn’t illegal, it also isn’t for the faint of heart. If you’re only expecting to find journalists and dissidents, you’re in for a rude awakening. The dark web is a collection of webpages that regular browsers just cannot reach. You can technically use other browsers that use onion routing like brave browser and waterfox, however, I would advise against it.
How Do I Access the Darknet?
Unfortunately, it’s also a place where the bad guys can offer their services – for example, hackers or hitmen. The advantages of I2P are based on a much faster and more reliable network. Additionally, I2P doesn’t rely on hidden directories that serve as a resource for .onion domains. I2P can only be used to access hidden sites that are only available on the I2P network. As I mentioned previously, the dark web is quite popular with journalists, political bloggers and news publishers, and others who run the risk of imprisonment in countries like Iran and others.
Accessing the darknet requires a specific set of tools and knowledge. Here are the steps you should follow:
Navy and made public in 2004, Tor is the most popular dark web browser because of its unrivaled security and privacy. Getting to the dark web is actually a lot easier than you might think—navigating it is a different story. Here’s a quick tutorial on how to safely access the dark web and tips on how to use it. But you can face criminal charges if you use the dark web to sell or purchase illegal firearms, drugs, pornography, stolen passwords, hacked credit card account numbers, or other items. Medical records, fee-based content, membership websites, and confidential corporate web pages are just a few examples of what makes up the deep web. Estimates place the size of the deep web at between 96% and 99% of the internet.
- Download the Tor Browser:
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. Download this white paper to learn how CrowdStrike Falcon® Intelligence Recon can help identify potentially malicious and criminal activity across the dark web.
How To Get On The Dark Web Safely And Anonymously
To review security settings, click on the onion logo in the top left and select “Security Settings”, which will bring up a slider offering a choice of the default of standard, or safer and safest. In “safer” mode, JavaScript is disabled on HTTP sites, some fonts are disabled, and all audio and video won’t run automatically, you’ll have to click to play. Slide up to the “safest” level, and as well as those settings, JavaScript is disabled on all sites. To access a dark web address, you must use a VPN and a suitable browser (it should be Tor).
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser for your operating system.
- Install the browser on your device.
- Install a VPN (Optional but Recommended):
- Choose a reputable VPN service.
- Download and install the VPN software.
- Connect to a VPN server to mask your IP address.
- Launch the Tor Browser:
- Open the Tor Browser after installation.
- Click “Connect” to establish a connection to the Tor network.
- Visit .onion Sites:
- Use directories or forums to find .onion links.
- Type the .onion URL directly into the Tor Browser’s address bar.
However, several dark websites cater to illicit activities, like drug trafficking. While this doesn’t make visiting the dark web illegal, you can land on websites that infect your device with malware, such as ransomware and trojan viruses. A while back I made another blog post on PGP keys which helps explain what PGP is and how it works. As stated, onion.ly links are but one method utilized in accessing the dark web, where clicking the link will automatically redirect you to a dark web site.
Safety Precautions
Before diving into the darknet, it’s crucial to take safety precautions:
- Use a VPN: Enhances your privacy by masking your IP address.
- Enable NoScript: Disable JavaScript in the Tor Browser to minimize risk.
- Avoid Personal Information: Never share your real identity or personal data.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Avoid downloading files that may contain malware.
FAQs about Darknet Access
- With user data from Dread, it can verify accounts submitting .onion links, authenticating whether they are genuine site owners or scammers with more accuracy.
- This week, cybercriminals targeted health lifestyle members, patients, gamblers, and general consumers.
- While Tor gives you access to sites on the .onion ecosystem, you can also use Tor to browse the surface web, taking advantage of its encryption to enjoy additional security and privacy.
- Today, the dark web has expanded and evolved greatly, working with increased sophistication.
Q1: Is accessing the darknet illegal?
A1: Accessing the darknet itself is not illegal; however, many activities conducted there may be against the law. Always remain aware of your actions.
Q2: Are there any legal uses for the darknet?
A2: Yes, the darknet can be used for legal purposes, such as:
- Privacy-focused communication.
- Censorship circumvention in oppressive regimes.
- Whistleblowing platforms.
Q3: What should I avoid on the darknet?
A3: Avoid engaging in:
- Illegal drug sales.
- Human trafficking forums.
- Hacking services.
- Any form of illegal pornography.
Conclusion
Accessing the darknet is a process that requires careful consideration and preparation. By following the steps outlined above and prioritizing safety, you can explore this hidden part of the internet while minimizing risks.
