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Many who access the dark web do so by first connecting to it with the Tor (an acronym for the “The Onion Router”) browser. 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. In this post, we aim to shed light on the dark web, a part of the internet that’s often misunderstood. By the end, you will know how to safely access the dark web on your phone and navigate its waters with an informed sense of caution.
Regardless of being a business, parent, or any other user of the web, you’ll want to take precautions to keep your information and private life off the dark web. With many Tor-based sites being overtaken by police authorities across the globe, there is a clear danger of becoming government target for simply visiting a dark website. The use of the dark web usually means that you are attempting to engage in activity that you could not otherwise carry out in the public eye. However, you can still take illegal actions within Tor that could incriminate you regardless of the browser’s legality. You could easily use Tor in an attempt to pirate copyrighted content from the deep web, share illegal pornography, or engage in cyber terrorism. Using a legal browser will not make your actions fall to the right side of the law.
Understanding the Dark Web
When using dark web search engines, it’s important to exercise caution and refrain from clicking on suspicious links or accessing illegal content. While the surface and deep web can be accessed this way, the dark web requires special software. 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 deep web is the private layer, and it’s often password-protected.
VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 49% off. Free VPNs don’t offer the same security and reliability as premium ones. They have proven to expose users’ real IP addresses, which can lead to hackers and authorities intercepting your data.
You don’t have to become a cybersecurity expert to understand the mechanics of the Dark Web. And if you have no idea what to do if your identity is stolen, Aura has your back. That’s why people who try Aura’s Dark Web Scanner are shocked to see how much of their sensitive information is exposed just by running a scan of their email address. Because this offering is so extensive and affordable, the Dark Web is the ideal breeding ground for criminals. Even more of a threat, hackers looking to make a lot of money and profit off people and companies around the world have found a way to do it — fast and at scale. A hacked Uber rider account goes for just $4, and a Netflix account with a paid one-year subscription is worth $44.
Once you’re there, you’ll be able to enjoy 360-degree protection against hackers or other malicious entities on this part of the internet. If you ask me, this is the only proper way of enjoying the darknet without worrying about possibly corrupted Tor nodes. Additionally, the entry node itself will be able to see your IP address and the VPN can also see your traffic. Although, if you use a safe and secure provider, that shouldn’t be a big issue.
The dark web has flourished thanks to bitcoin, the crypto-currency that enables two parties to conduct a trusted transaction without knowing each other’s identity. “Bitcoin has been a major factor in the growth of the dark web, and the dark web has been a big factor in the growth of bitcoin,” says Tiquet. All this activity, this vision of a bustling marketplace, might make you think that navigating the dark web is easy. The place is as messy and chaotic as you would expect when everyone is anonymous, and a substantial minority are out to scam others.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. While it has legitimate uses, including privacy for journalists and activists, it is also associated with illegal activities.
Precautions Before Accessing
Stolen Data
Before you learn how to get on the dark web on your phone, it’s crucial to take certain precautions:
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an extra layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Update Your Phone: Ensure that your operating system and apps are up-to-date to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Enable Security Features: Use built-in phone security features, such as biometric locks or passwords.
How to Access the Dark Web on Your Phone
Accessing the dark web on your phone involves a few steps:
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Download a Privacy-Focused Browser:
To access the dark web, you’ll need a browser that can handle .onion sites. Options include:
- Tor Browser: The most popular method for accessing the dark web.
- Orbot: A proxy app that lets you connect to the Tor network on Android devices.
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Use a VPN:
Launch your VPN app and connect to a secure server.
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Open Tor Browser or Orbot:
Connect to the Tor network using your chosen app. You will now have anonymous browsing capabilities.
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Navigate to .onion Sites:
Once connected, you can enter .onion URLs directly into the browser’s address bar.
Tips for Safe Browsing
While exploring the dark web, be mindful of your safety and security:
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information. Use pseudonyms instead of real names.
- Be Cautious with Links: Only click on links from trusted sources to avoid scams and malware.
- Avoid Illegal Activities: Engaging in illegal actions can lead to severe consequences.
FAQs
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Yes, accessing the dark web is legal; however, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is not.
Can I access the dark web on an iPhone?
Yes, you can use the Tor Browser or other privacy-focused apps available for iOS to access the dark web.
What should I do if I encounter a problem while browsing?
- With your information available at a price, your passwords are the only means of protection to prevent cybercriminals from accessing your accounts (all of them — not just your email).
- Just as in the tangible world, spaces that afford privacy can be used for both noble and nefarious purposes.
- This content can be accessed by creating accounts on websites and portals.
- You can also take a proactive approach by engaging in dark web monitoring, dark web scans, and setting up fraud alerts.
If you experience issues, consider restarting your VPN and reconnecting to the Tor network. Ensure that your apps are updated.
Is my phone secure while browsing the dark web?
Your phone’s security depends on the precautions you take. Using a VPN and privacy-focused browsers significantly enhances your security.
Conclusion
Learning how to get on the dark web on your phone requires careful planning and precautions. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the dark web safely and securely while minimizing risks.
