You can’t just look up some Dark web page in your regular search engine and dive head first into the darkness. You need a specialized browser and either a specialized search engine or direct knowledge of an address to reach Dark web pages. While Tor is an open-source project, your activity can still be traced back to your IP address. The best way to prevent your browsing activity from alerting authorities is to avoid sites with illegal activity altogether — another reason to only visit sites you’ve researched and trust.
While the internet offers many positive benefits, it also has some negatives. Although not entirely used for illicit purposes, the dark web is one part of the internet that can be used by criminals for illegal purposes, like selling stolen personal information. Whether you’re for or against using the dark web, it helps to know what it is and how to navigate it.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. Unlike the surface web, which is easily accessible to everyone, the dark web offers a layer of anonymity for users.
The browser is free to download and use, and works with all major operating systems. In addition to the Tor browser, users can further protect their identities when accessing the dark web by doing so through a virtual private network (VPN). The best browser for accessing the dark web safely is the Tor browser.
At no point along the route can any node or eavesdropper know both the start point (the user) and the end point (the forum), and until it reaches the end, the message is not readable. Most people know about the dark web within the context of stolen identity and personal information. Since the dark web is anonymous and unregulated, it has become a marketplace for selling stolen passwords, IDs, and other forms of private information. For all the illegal activity and secrecy that takes place on Tor, you may be surprised to learn its origin story. Tor was developed—and continues to be partially funded by—the US government. Browser fingerprinting and online tracking are virtually impossible when you’re connected to the dark web via Tor Browser.
How To Access The Deep Web
Most of the rest consists of websites that cannot be reached using standard internet protocols. Those hard-to-access websites are collectively known as the Dark web. You can access the Dark web safely, but just diving in blindly is a bad idea. This is like going spelunking without the proper equipment — you’re likely to get hurt, possibly very badly.
How to Get to the Dark Web
If you’re interested in exploring the dark web, follow these steps:
I’ll only look at the dark web links in this article, so if you also want to know how to use Tor safely, check out our guide. Accessing the Tor browser and getting acquainted with the world of the darknet is not as difficult as you think. All it takes is downloading the Tor browser from Google Play and installing it on your PC. On this site, anyone can pay hitmen to kill a person or a group of people. To protect yourself on the dark web, be sure to use a secure connection and exercise caution when interacting with anyone on the platform. There are many scammers and criminals operating on these hidden networks.
The Dark Web is used by criminals to sell stolen goods, weapons, drugs, and fake documents (i.e., passports). Some sites have disturbing and illegal content like child pornography or live-streamed murders. Tor and other Dark Web browsers offer some protection, but they are not completely safe. Your ISP can still see when you browse the Dark Web through these. A VPN can mask your real IP and keep your identity and activity safe on the Dark Web. The Deep Web is all of the web that isn’t crawled by a popular search engine, such as Google.
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Download Tor Browser:
Tor (The Onion Router) is a specialized web browser designed to enable anonymous online activity. Visit the official Tor Project website and download the appropriate version for your operating system.
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Install the Tor Browser:
Once downloaded, install the browser by following the instructions provided. It’s a simple installation process, similar to any other software.
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Connect to the Tor Network:
Open the Tor Browser and click “Connect” to establish a connection to the Tor network. The initial connection may take a few moments.
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Access .onion sites:
Websites on the dark web typically use the .onion domain. Use reliable directories or forums to find .onion links, as these are not searchable on the regular internet.
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Exercise Caution:
Always be vigilant. The dark web can host dangerous content and activities. Avoid sharing personal information and be wary of any links you click.
Important Considerations
- 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.
- They offer various electronic services, including physical technology, Internet services, entertainment programs, communications plans, etc.
- Scientific journals often put their articles behind a paywall or charge high fees for access, but Sci-Hub offers open-access to read or download research papers.
- For that, vpnAlert provides you with objective VPN reviews, as well as comprehensive guides and tutorials.
- Hosting over 5,300 stores across North America alone, AutoZone is a recognizably local option for car owners stateside.
Before you navigate the dark web, it’s crucial to keep the following in mind:
- Anonymity: While Tor helps anonymize your web activity, consider using a VPN for added privacy.
- Legal Risks: Accessing illegal content may have serious consequences. Always prioritize legal and safe browsing.
- Security: Protect your device from potential malware and phishing attempts by ensuring your security software is up-to-date.
- Scams: Be aware that many dark web marketplaces and services are fraught with scams.
FAQs about the Dark Web
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Is the dark web illegal?
The dark web itself is not illegal; however, many of the activities conducted on it may be.
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Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web provides anonymity, there are still ways you could be tracked if precautions are not taken.
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What types of sites can I find on the dark web?
You can find forums, markets, and encrypted email services, among other resources.
Exploring the dark web requires careful navigation and a strong understanding of both its advantages and its risks. By taking this information into account, you can ensure a safer experience while accessing this hidden part of the internet.