Also, its no-logs policy has been proven true in court many times, and all of its apps are open source. I really like that all of ExpressVPN’s servers support Tor traffic, because I was able to use a nearby VPN server in my country to get faster speeds while accessing dark web links. This is a free service that lets you upload images to share them with other people. This site allows people who live in or travel through restrictive countries to securely access and use image hosting and sharing services, which might be unavailable where they are.
Websites are usually labeled with registry operators like “.com” and “.org” and can be easily located with popular search engines. In more technical terms, the dark web is the part of the web where sites are hosted on so-called darknets — computer networks overlaid on other networks. Like regular “surface” sites, dark web sites use internet protocols, but the darknet networks that are overlaid on normal networks can’t be accessed through regular web browsers. Once a user installs a dark web browser on a device, it functions like a regular browser. That said, it can be difficult for users to find the material they are looking for on the dark web. Addresses tend to be a mix of random numbers and letters, making them challenging to remember or access manually.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. It is a complex network where anonymity is paramount, and users often make use of special software to access it. If you’re curious about how to go to the dark web, it’s essential to understand both the process and the risks involved.
Why Access the Dark Web?
Before learning how to go to the dark web, it’s important to consider your motivations. Some common reasons include:
- If you ever need to download and use Tor, a VPN will help prevent your ISP or anyone else from knowing about it.
- Dark web search engines and forums like Reddit can help you find reliable dark websites, and you’ll need to use a dark web browser to visit them.
- In this case, your internet traffic might also stand out more to your ISP if you’re using I2P compared to Tor.
- In any case, it can be used for any dark web activity thanks to various privacy features.
- It is called the Dark Web, not to be confused with the Deep Web, which are websites which cannot be ordinarily accessed due to paywalls or password-protected login pages (such as online banking).
- Privacy and anonymity
- Accessing restricted information or forums
- Exploring the boundaries of free speech
- Research purposes in cybersecurity
How To Minimize The Risks While Accessing The Dark Web
Remember to always stay safe when browsing the dark web and never click on any links that look suspicious. NotEvil, Ahmia, Candle, and Torch are among the darknet search engines that have indexes .Onion domains. If you are in a hurry and want to access the dark web safely, follow the given method. Install and run strong, trusted security software on your computer and devices to help ensure the privacy and security of your data. There are publications on the dark web whose editors and founders believe it’s the only way to obtain and sustain a truly free press. Visiting the dark web, though, is different than accessing the deep web.
“Dark web surveillance is a constantly changing field that requires continual updates and tweaks to stay successful,” Biswas says. Law enforcement agencies will also need to respond to major breaches with dedicated task forces to monitor and minimize the misuse of sensitive and personally identifiable information (PII). “Operation Guardian works to disrupt criminal conduct, including the potential sale of PII on the dark web, and prosecute those responsible,” the spokesperson says. However, one of the challenges for law enforcement in taking out these groups is that they rotate their infrastructure. A recent law enforcement crackdown saw a coordinated takedown of many, many servers because if they miss one single server, the whole thing stays running, says Owenson.
Note that you won’t need to do this if you have already enabled the safety settings on Tor, as the scripts are already turned off. The “Safer” option only disables JavaScript on websites that aren’t HTTPS protected. NordVPN offers obfuscated servers in several countries, including Germany, Spain, Hong Kong, and the United States. Moreover, a VPN will help to protect your traffic before it reaches the first server within the Tor network, protecting you from any malicious Tor server owners. Keep these updated, including Tor and your anti-malware and VPN software.
The US government initially created Tor as a tool for different military organizations to exchange messages and information anonymously. In many ways, the risks of the ‘Dark Web’ are the same as those that may be encountered in the ‘Open Web’. Young people in both environments may access pornography, indecent images of children, or sites selling drugs and weapons. Others may use it to reduce their risk of falling victim to crime, such as people who have been cyberstalked or who are concerned about the security of online banking. Threats are scattered all over the dark web, but there’s plenty you can do to protect yourself. Whistleblowers, journalists, and activists also use dark web tools — especially if they live in countries with repressive political regimes.
While the Tor network is designed to be anonymous, it is run by volunteers. While this is somewhat true, there are a lot of useful websites on the dark web, too. These include websites that facilitate anonymous file sharing and top-secret journalism. A common query among netizens is how to access the dark web on a phone. You can quickly identify suspicious activities by closely monitoring your credit report and online accounts. For example, an unexpected drop in your credit score can be a sign of illegal activity, including identity theft.
The dark web accounts for around 6% of the internet, and it is the secretive portion of the web where drug dealers, black hat hackers, hitmen, and human traffickers sell their wares or services. The dark web is undoubtedly dangerous, but it can also create a lot of good for the world. It’s useful for research, helping journalists shed light on injustice, communicating anonymously, and investigating criminal activity. The difference is the order in which your internet traffic travels. Tor over VPN directs your traffic through the VPN server before going through Tor’s network — while VPN over Tor directs your traffic through Tor’s browser first. The dark web is estimated to make up just a tiny fraction of the internet.
Necessary Tools for Accessing the Dark Web
To begin your journey into the dark web, you will need to use specific tools that ensure your identity remains confidential. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you need:
- Install Tor Browser: This is the most widely used tool for accessing the dark web. It anonymizes your connection through a series of relays.
- Consider a VPN: A Virtual Private Network adds an extra layer of security by masking your IP address, making your browsing habits more difficult to trace.
- Engage with Security Practices: Use security software to protect yourself from malware. Always update your antivirus and keep a firewall active.
- Be Aware of Links: Dark web links often end in .onion. Ensure you only visit reputable sites to minimize risk.
Steps on How to Go to the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely navigate the dark web:
- Download and Install Tor: Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser, and follow the installation instructions.
- Open Tor and Connect: Launch the browser and click “Connect” to route your internet connection through the Tor network.
- Configure Your Security Settings: Adjust the security level in the Tor settings. Higher security levels block certain features that could compromise your anonymity.
- Access .onion Websites: Begin browsing by entering .onion links that you can find on trusted sources or directories.
Safety Tips While Exploring the Dark Web
It’s crucial to prioritize safety when venturing into this unregulated space:
- Never Share Personal Information: Your anonymity is vital; avoid giving out any personal data.
- Use Pseudonyms: Create an alternative identity when interacting with others.
- Be Skeptical of Deals: Many offers on the dark web can be scams. Exercise caution.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Malware is prevalent on the dark web; refrain from downloading anything unless you’re sure it’s safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is legal in many countries; however, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web is not.
Can my internet provider see I’m using Tor?
While your internet provider can see that you are using Tor, they cannot see what you are doing within the Tor network.
What are some safe .onion sites to start with?
Some examples include:
- ProPublica (a news organization)
- DuckDuckGo (a search engine)
- The Hidden Wiki (for a directory of other .onion sites)
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
If you stumble upon illegal content, it’s best to leave the site immediately and avoid any engagement. Reporting to appropriate authorities could also be an option depending on the content.
Conclusion
Knowing how to go to the dark web is only part of the equation. It’s essential to proceed with awareness and caution. The dark web can offer a wealth of information and privacy, but it also poses significant risks. Always prioritize your safety and security when exploring this hidden facet of the internet.
