Method 2: Use Tails & The Tor Browser
How to Get to the Dark Web
The dark web is often shrouded in mystery and misconception. While it can be a hub of illegal activities, it also hosts forums and websites dedicated to privacy, free speech, and information not easily accessible on the surface web. If you’re curious about how to get to the dark web, it’s essential to understand the tools and precautions needed to navigate safely.
- Once you have the Tor browserinstalled and open (which is extremely easy and requires no specialconfigurations), it’s time to look at some sites.
- Again, we can’t emphasize enough that security and anonymity are paramount to those on dark websites.
- Any of these scenarios are a crystal clear warning sign of identity theft.
- The Invisible Internet Project uses end-to-end traffic encryption sent through a decentralised network of about 55,000 computers.
Understanding the Dark Web
TOR offered intelligence sources a way to communicate easily and safely, especially in hostile areas where personal safety is key. It is now one of the most common browsers used to access the dark web, using databases to help people make their way around and find the information they need. It safeguards the user’s online activities and identity by encrypting internet traffic and directing it through a series of TOR servers. While the TOR browser is frequently employed to access the dark web, it can also be used to browse the regular web more securely and privately. The dark web is a part of the internet that is not accessible through traditional search engines and requires specific software or configurations to access.
Multiple layers of encryption allow people to browse and post information on the dark web with near anonymity, making it a go-to platform for buying and selling illicit goods and services. Accessing the Dark Web requires this level of anonymity and security, and that’s where Tor becomes essential. The websites on the Dark Web have a special .onion suffix and are not accessible through regular browsers.
A VPN, which is short for virtual private network, hides your computer’s physical IP address by routing it through a virtual IP address at a different location. VPNs are incredibly useful for journalists and anyone with a vested interest in keeping their information private or trying to trick a service into thinking you’re somewhere you’re not. A VPN provides an extra level of security that’s helpful for your day-to-day needs and absolutely essential when accessing the deep web. You never know when you’ll stumble upon someone unscrupulous, or when one of Tor’s nodes has been compromised (more on that later). In the vast majority of countries, the dark web itself is not illegal and it is not illegal to access it.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. Accessing this hidden aspect requires specific software and a cautious approach.
Furthermore, the VPN service accepts gift card and Bitcoin payments for full anonymity. To access the dark web using a VPN, we recommend using the Onion over VPN method, which involves connecting to a VPN server before connecting to the Tor Browser. The Apple App Store and the Google Play Store are also filled with fake apps that are not safe to use.
Tools You Need
Onion sites are considered hidden in the deep web, and they use Tor to encrypt connections to them, keeping visitors and the site creators anonymous. It’s not illegal to access the Dark Web but—as with the Surface Web—certain activities can be considered illegal. However, note that by accessing the Dark Web you may attract attention from law enforcement agencies who monitor Dark Web activity. FBI, Europol, Interpol, and many other national police agencies regularly police the Dark Web. The open web, also called the surface web, includes any public web content that is indexed by search engines. Web pages on the open web will show up in search results on sites like Google and Bing.
However, the deep web is still connected to the internet, which means a hacker could break through a company’s security systems and access your personal information via what’s known as a data breach. The surface web or clear web is the public part of the internet that anyone can easily access with an internet browser and search engine. Search engines “crawl” the surface web for new websites and pages, and index their findings. When you search for a website or term, the search engine shows you results from its index that it thinks best match your query.
To safely access the dark web, you will need:
- Tor Browser: This is the most commonly used tool to access the dark web. It allows you to browse anonymously by routing your connection through multiple servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a live operating system like Tails, which you can run from a USB stick and helps maintain privacy.
If you can’t get a personal recommendation from someone you trust, verify the URL from multiple different sources. Officially, the Tor Browser is only available on Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux. Many experts advise against using third-party mobile browsers that utilize the Tor Network.
For added peace of mind, your Aura plan comes equipped with a $1,000,000 insurance policy that covers eligible losses resulting from identity theft. Starting from your email address, a persistent malicious hacker or scammer can scrape numerous details that can be used for financial fraud, identity theft, and many more types of cyber attacks. The reality is that you won’t realize how extensive your personal data exposure is until you look at the hard data. This colossal amount of information exists on the Deep Web (or “hidden web”), where almost all online activities take place. Jory MacKay is a writer and award-winning editor with over a decade of experience for online and print publications. He has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Victoria and a passion for helping people identify and avoid fraud.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Visit the official [Tor Project website](https://www.torproject.org/) to download the Tor Browser. Ensure you are using the official site to avoid malicious software.
- Use a VPN: Before launching the Tor Browser, connect to your VPN. This prevents anyone from monitoring your connection.
- Launch Tor Browser: Open the Tor Browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network. This may take a moment.
- Access .onion Websites: These are special URLs exclusive to the dark web. You will need to know the specific addresses as they cannot be found through standard search engines.
- Practice Safe Browsing: Never share personal information and be wary of websites that seem suspicious or ask for sensitive data.
Safety Tips
Ensuring your safety while navigating the dark web is paramount. Here are some tips:
- Do not download files: Files can contain malware that may compromise your device.
- Avoid sharing personal information: Keep your identity anonymous by using pseudonyms and never sharing identifiable information.
- Use secure connections: Where possible, always look for .onion sites with HTTPS for an added layer of security.
- Stay informed: Follow security blogs or forums to stay updated on the latest risks and tips regarding dark web navigation.
FAQs
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
No, accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, many activities conducted there may be against the law. It’s essential to engage responsibly and ethically.
Can my computer get infected by the dark web?
Yes, there is a risk of encountering malware while exploring the dark web. This is why it’s crucial to adhere to safe browsing practices and utilize protective tools like VPNs and secure operating systems.
What are some common uses of the dark web?
- Whistleblowing
- Privacy-focused forums
- Research and information sharing
- Cryptocurrency discussions
How can I stay anonymous on the dark web?
To maintain anonymity, use a VPN, avoid sharing personal information, and consider utilizing additional privacy tools like Brave Browser or specialized search engines designed for anonymity.
In conclusion, how to get to the dark web involves understanding the necessary tools, taking safety precautions, and being aware of the ethical implications of your actions. Approach the dark web with caution and curiosity, and you can discover a unique part of the internet that exists behind the scenes.
