IT Governance & Service
Understanding How to Enter the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that requires special software and configurations to access, and it is often associated with anonymity and illicit activities. To enter the dark web, users must follow specific steps to ensure they do so safely and legally.
ExpressVPN protects your internet traffic using 256-bit AES channel strong encryption together with 4096-bit DHE-RSA keys and a SHA512 hash authentication. The company has an independently audited no-logs policy and its comprehensive server network is RAM-only. It comes with DNS leak protection, and works well if you’re aiming to improve online privacy.
Aside from that, it has a no-logging policy audited by Deloitte, 256-bit encryption, an ad blocker, and even IP/DNS leak protection. Thus, through the dark web, you can buy illegal substances, order a hitman, watch underage pornography, and engage in all sorts of illicit activities. Needless to say, we don’t recommend indulging in this nasty side of the darknet. Namely, this method prevents even your VPN from seeing your activities, it prevents the entry node from accessing your original IP, and allows you to remain anonymous while browsing. Another benefit is that every bit of outgoing and inbound traffic is under encryption.
What You Need to Enter the Dark Web
The dark web is a decentralized web, which means that the data is stored on many different servers around the world. As you are now familiar with the three different sections within the entire world wide web, let’s take a closer look at how you can access the dark web anonymously. We’ve also previously mentioned the “dark users” that use the dark web for illegal reasons, but the less said about them, the better. The release of Freenet in 2000 is considered by many as the start or founding of the dark web.
Before you can enter the dark web, you should equip yourself with the necessary tools and knowledge:
- Tor Browser: This is the most commonly used software to access the dark web. It allows users to browse anonymously.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN adds an extra layer of security and privacy, encrypting your internet traffic.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-focused operating system like Tails that leaves no trace on the device.
- Safety Precautions: Familiarize yourself with the risks involved and adopt best practices for browsing securely.
The deep web, or second layer, is any website that does not appear as a search engine result when users browse content. There are many reasons why a search engine would not index a page—perhaps it is an old page with no identifiable keywords, or it is part of an organization’s members-only site. The deep web could also be used to house private information and information that needs to remain secret, such as legal or scientific documents, medical records, or competitor information. The world wide web is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what is online.
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. On the other hand, your ISP won’t be able to tell that you’re using a VPN. You can use other “hidden Wiki” sites as well but I recommend this one because it offers dozens of dark web websites with frequently updated addresses.
And then there’s the bad stuff – contract killers, child porn, drugs, and other nasty stuff which share the same benefits of anonymity as the good sites. Whistleblowers, journalists, and activists also use dark web tools — especially if they live in countries with repressive political regimes. The dark web has been vital for social change and market decentralization. This is akin to the things you actively hide from other people, and what you don’t want anyone else to learn.
DeepDotWeb has tons of useful information including news, tutorials, and status reports of top markets and forums in the dark web. If you have to, use a USB drive, format it, transfer files, and reformat it right after. Unless you’re a security expert, never open files retrieved from the dark web. Do NOT perform other activities using the surfer account aside from running the VPN and VM. Enter absolutely no personal information in the surfer account and particularly in the VM.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enter the Dark Web
Follow these steps to enter the dark web safely:
- Download and Install Tor: Go to the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser. Verify the authenticity of the download to avoid malware.
- Set Up a VPN: Subscribe to a reliable VPN service and connect it before launching the Tor Browser.
- Launch the Tor Browser: Open the Tor Browser and adjust the security settings to enhance protection against potential threats.
- Explore Dark Web Directories: Use reputable directories to find .onion sites, such as “Ahmia” or “Dark Web Link.” Always ensure you’re using up-to-date resources.
- Stay Aware and Alert: Understand and avoid illegal content, scams, and potential dangers. Always follow good security practices.
Risks of Entering the Dark Web
While entering the dark web offers access to a wealth of anonymous information and forums, it is essential to be aware of the associated risks:
- Legal Risks: Engaging in illegal activities can lead to severe legal consequences.
- Malware: Many dark web sites can distribute malicious software that could harm your device.
- Scams: Fraudulent services and scams are prevalent, making it vital to verify any information or contacts.
- Privacy Concerns: Anonymity is not guaranteed. Users still risk exposure to unwanted surveillance or data leaks.
FAQs About Entering the Dark Web
Q: Is it illegal to enter the dark web?
A: Simply accessing the dark web is not illegal; however, engaging in unlawful activities is against the law.
Q: Can I access the dark web without Tor?
A: Tor is the most common gateway, but other means exist. Using Tor is highly recommended for anonymity.
Q: How do I stay safe on the dark web?
A: Use a VPN, avoid sharing personal information, and stick to reputable sources and forums.
Q: What types of content can be found on the dark web?
A: The dark web contains a mix of legal and illegal content, including forums, marketplaces, and news sites focusing on privacy and freedom of speech.
- Social media, for example, is heavily censored in many countries, so the only way some citizens can get access to the rest of the world is through the dark web.
- Sci-Hub is mostly useful for academics who know the PMID, DOI, or URLs of papers they want to access.
- Browsing the dark web puts you at risk of cyberattacks such as DDoS attacks, botnets, and other malware or viruses.
- Similar to the open web, the dark web is populated by groups and individuals that construct and run websites, not all of which promote or facilitate unlawful activity.
Ultimately, to enter the dark web requires careful preparation, knowledge of the risks involved, and adherence to best practices for safety and anonymity.
