Dark Web: A Hidden Realm Of The Internet
Understanding the Dark Web
The URLs for popular Dark Web sites, however, are often made public. You can find some of the better ones here, and if you’re genuinely curious about exploring the bowels of the Dark Web, here is a list of some of the more infamous sites you can reach. If you want to view archived content (pages or whole websites that are no longer “live” online), the Wayback Machine stores older versions of many websites. It also stores content like old news reports or social media posts, and preserves information that is otherwise rendered inaccessible.
Users of the dark web should also realize that although their activity is technically anonymous, associating with people who are conducting illegal activities can have legal implications. Given its anonymous nature, the dark web is also used for illicit and even illegal purposes. These include the buying and selling of illegal drugs, weapons, passwords, and stolen identities, as well as the trading of illegal pornography and other potentially harmful materials. Several sites hosting illegal material have been discovered by government agencies and shut down in recent years, including Silk Road, AlphaBay, and Hansa. The dark web’s anonymity has also led to cybersecurity threats and various data breaches over the last few decades.
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. Accessing this hidden layer requires specific tools and knowledge to ensure safety and anonymity.
On average, I had really good browsing speeds — .onion sites loaded in 2–3 seconds, HD videos loaded in 5 seconds, and there was only minor buffering at the start of the videos. ExpressVPN is my favorite VPN for browsing pages on the dark web in 2024 — it supports Tor traffic, provides excellent security and privacy features, and has very fast speeds. This site lets you access public texts of court decisions from around the world.
Prerequisites for Surfing the Dark Web
Because of the protection offered by the Darknet and its hidden services, activists in oppressive regimes are free to exchange ideas and organize themselves. While the deep and dark web are somewhat similar (i.e., they don’t usually appear on search engines), they’re also very different. It’s also important to note that browsing the dark web on a mobile device can be more dangerous than on a desktop or PC. Dark web sites can track your location (using GPS or WiFi location tracking) and access other information easily when you’re using a mobile device. While NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN feature allows you to access the dark web on any browser (including Google Chrome), we recommend using a pro-privacy browser like DuckDuckGo. This is important to block trackers and protect your privacy from snooping third parties.
Before diving into the dark web, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Here are the key prerequisites:
The deep web includes all internet content protected by passwords, authentication forms, and firewalls — like subscription services, banking information, and email accounts. Most of the web is actually the deep web, and whenever we enter login credentials and passwords to view web content, we’re accessing a part of the deep web. Whilst it’s legal to visit these sites, it’s important to practice warning and illustrate awareness of the actual consequences. Much better aforementioned porn material, extreme content and dubious sales of stolen goods or info can lead to piquante, prosecution, or even just imprisonment. The internet may be a vast marine of information, but navigating it takes some digital lifejackets. 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.
Infamous criminal sites live there, but so do popular, well-known sites and brands. The terms “deep web” and “dark web” are commonly used interchangeably. Although this is accurate in terms of the underlying technology, there is a slight difference. The deep web refers to non-indexed webpages as a whole, while dark web refers more specifically to the parts of the deep web where you can engage in illicit activities.
- VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) enhances your anonymity and protects your data.
- Tor Browser: The most common method to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser, which anonymizes your connection.
- Security Software: Ensure you have updated anti-virus and anti-malware software to protect your device.
Steps on How to Surf the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely surf the dark web:
- Download and Install Tor Browser:
Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser. Make sure to only download it from the official source to avoid malicious versions.
- Set Up a VPN:
Before launching the Tor Browser, connect to a reliable VPN service. This adds an extra layer of protection by masking your IP address.
- Open the Tor Browser:
Once connected to your VPN, open the Tor Browser. Be sure to follow the on-screen instructions for proper configuration.
- Navigate to .onion Sites:
Use search engines designed for the dark web like DuckDuckGo or Ahmia to find .onion sites. These sites operate on the Tor network.
- Stay Anonymous:
To maintain your anonymity, avoid sharing personal information. Use pseudonyms and avoid logging into accounts tied to your real identity.
- Understand Risks and Content:
Be aware that the dark web hosts both legal and illegal content. Navigating it poses risks, including exposure to illicit activities and scams.
Safety Tips for Surfing the Dark Web
To enhance your safety while exploring the dark web, consider the following tips:
- Use Encrypted Communication: Consider secure messaging apps for communication.
- Avoid Downloads: Downloading files can expose your device to malware.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest news and potential security threats related to the dark web.
FAQs About Surfing the Dark Web
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities or visiting illicit sites is against the law.
What kinds of content can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, marketplaces, journalism, and illegal services or products.
Can I be tracked while surfing the dark web?
While the Tor Browser helps anonymize your activity, it’s still possible to be tracked through various means, especially if you share personal information.
- Here is some free information on how to remove your data from many popular people-search sites.
- So, I put together a list of the best dark web sites in 2024 to help you get started.
- If you’re following the rules of safety, accessing the Dark Web can be done safely.
- Data is the most common commodity sold on the dark web, according to Nirmit Biswas, senior research analyst at Market Research Future.
How do I stay safe while using the dark web?
Always use a VPN, do not share personal information, avoid downloading files, and stay informed about potential risks.
