How To Access The Dark Web Safely: Steps To Take Before
Remember, there is a chance of getting phishing attacks on the dark web and you must never click on any suspicious links. Originally used by the United States Department of Defense to communicate anonymously, the dark web has now become a hub for users wishing to remain anonymous around the world. It uses a technology called “onion routing,” which protects users from surveillance and tracking through a random path of encrypted servers.
How to Enter the Dark Web
- The specialized browser people use to access the dark web is the Tor browser.
- To use the dark web safely, use as many privacy-enhancing tools or programs as you can, and do not identify yourself in any way to anyone for any reason.
- Aside from that, it has a no-logging policy audited by Deloitte, 256-bit encryption, an ad blocker, and even IP/DNS leak protection.
- It’s also highly secure, thanks to the encryption and at least three relay points (also known as nodes) that are used to bounce information to obscure the origin of the data.
- It is extremely easy to access the dark web and even easier to be detected on it if you don’t take precautions.
So we do not recommend you do this if you just want to visit the dark web once or twice. If a hacker manages to get into your system via the dark web, all of this information is in danger. Comparatively, portable operating systems like Tails, Whonix, ZeusGuard, and Qubes OS prevent unwarranted data collection and surveillance, limiting the data at risk in case of a breach. Revealing personal information about yourself on the dark web can have serious ramifications by allowing hackers to identify and target you. The dark web was originally created as an anonymity tool and is still used this way by many. It has proven useful to increase the safety of journalists and whistleblowers, for instance.
The security that makes Tor so anonymous resembles the layers of an onion. So essentially, you’re looking for onion websites (links ending with .onion), and I’ll hook you up. Understanding onion routing is to start with the concept of proxy servers. A proxy server is a server that relays your connection through that server, which basically adds a step in the path of your data packets. The deep web, invisible web, or hidden web are parts of the World Wide Web whose contents are not indexed by standard search engines for any reason. Removing your personal information from the dark web is difficult.
You can’t access “.onion” sites through regular browsers like Chrome and Firefox. This category includes cloud drives, account pages on different websites, medical records, credit card information, reports, etc. You often need a specific URL and a password to access pages on the deep web.
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by search engines, offering users anonymity and privacy. Accessing it requires specialized tools and knowledge. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to enter the dark web.
Thanks to the onion routing used in this network, no node can know both the origin and destination of a message. It is designed for anonymous web browsing, and has various features (and limitations) that help achieve this. You can connect to the Tor network using the Tor browser, a custom web browser designed specifically to work with this network.
Using a VPN is essential to mask your identity when visiting websites on the dark web. After extensive tests, we’ve found NordVPN to be best suited for accessing the dark web on a phone as it’s mobile-friendly, secure, and offers specialized dark web servers. It includes content locked behind a paywall, private company networks, your Gmail inbox, hidden medical documents, etc, etc.
There are ways to access the dark web without Tor, but they offer different levels of accessibility and security. However, with any browser you use, there are risks involved in using the dark web so I advise that you browse with the added security of a VPN. The US military created the dark web to protect US intelligence communications online. It was later released to the public, where its ability to offer a high level of anonymity has led to various use cases.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely navigate the dark web:
- Download a VPN: Before accessing the dark web, install a trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN). This ensures your internet connection is encrypted, providing an additional layer of security.
- Install Tor Browser: The most common method to access the dark web is through the Tor browser. You can download it from the official Tor Project website. Ensure that you only download it from this source to avoid malicious software.
- Disconnect from Your Regular Browser: Close all other browsers to prevent any accidental leaks of your information. Use only the Tor browser for dark web exploration.
- Configure Tor Settings: When you launch the Tor browser for the first time, it may prompt you to configure settings. Accept the default options to make the initial setup smoother.
- Understand Onion Sites: Dark web sites often end with the .onion domain. You need specific URLs to navigate these sites as they cannot be found through standard URLs.
- Browse with Caution: Once you’re in, take care to avoid suspicious links or downloads. Remember, not all sites on the dark web are safe.
Important Precautions
While exploring, keep the following precautions in mind:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Never divulge personal information, including your real name or location.
- Be Wary of Scams: The dark web has numerous scams, so verify the legitimacy of sites before interacting with them.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If you’re purchasing goods or services, consider using cryptocurrency for transactions as it offers more anonymity than traditional payment methods.
- Maintain a Secure Device: Ensure your computer has up-to-date antivirus software and security patches installed.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Downloading files from the dark web can expose you to malware and other security risks.
Common FAQs About the Dark Web
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a section of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines and often requires specific software, like Tor, to access.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is against the law.
Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While the dark web offers more privacy, it’s not completely secure. If you are not using a VPN or if your Tor browser is misconfigured, you could be tracked.
What should I avoid on the dark web?
Stay away from illegal marketplaces, hacking forums, and sites that promote illegal activities. These can pose significant legal and security risks.
In conclusion, accessing the dark web requires careful preparation and an understanding of the risks involved. By following the steps outlined above and maintaining vigilance, you can explore this hidden part of the internet more safely.
