For built-in Tor over VPN functionality, NordVPN operates specialized servers that automatically route you through the Tor network. You don’t even need to use Tor Browser, but keep in mind other browsers can still pass identifying information through the network. Alternatively, there’s IPVanish who claim to be the world’s number one VPN for Tor and comes highly recommended, you can save 60% on the annual plan here. The dark web has no shortage of criminal activity, scams, phishing sites, suspicious links, and malware designed to trick newbies. And because there’s very little use of HTTPS on the dark net, verifying whether or not a website is genuine using an SSL certificate is not feasible. Obviously, finding these .onion websites is the first challenge, as they won’t show up in Google search results.
How many passwords are on the dark web?
The study finds there are more than 24 billion usernames and password combinations in circulation in cybercriminal marketplaces, many on the dark web — the equivalent of nearly four for every person on the planet.
The dark web is a mysterious and often misunderstood part of the internet. While it is true that there are illegal activities taking place on the dark web, not everything about it is inherently malicious. In fact, the dark web can be a valuable resource for journalists, activists, and individuals seeking privacy and anonymity online. If you’re curious about exploring this hidden corner of the internet, here’s how you can access the dark web safely:
Should You Enter The Dark Web Without A VPN?
However, you need the specific onion links for the dark web sites you want to visit. You can access the dark web by installing specific, anonymous browsers, such as TOR. Once installed, the browser works the same way traditional ones do. But it can be a little difficult to access information because it doesn’t use an index to locate the desired information.
1. Install a Secure VPN
Penetration Testing Tools For Beginners
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt your internet connection, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activities. Before accessing the dark web, make sure to install a reputable VPN to protect your identity and data.
2. Download the Tor Browser
Become Anonymous & Browse The Internet Safely
The Tor Browser is the most popular tool for accessing the dark web. It routes your internet traffic through a network of servers and encrypts it multiple times, ensuring your anonymity. You can download the Tor Browser for free from their official website.
You’ll have to visit sites using their onion URLs or search with an onion search engine. Antimalware and antivirus protections are equally crucial to prevent malicious actors from exploiting you. The dark web is filled with information theft from malware-infected users.
3. Navigate Carefully
On the regular web, domains such as are translated into their actual IP addresses via the domain name system (DNS). Other dark web search engines include Not Evil, Torch, Haystack, and Ahmia. The subreddit r/deepweb is a good starting point for asking more experienced users about how to search the dark web and deep web for the content you want. Lastly, The Hidden Wiki is a collection of dark web links — but the links may not work and may lead to dangerous websites.
Once you have installed the Tor Browser, you can start exploring the dark web. Keep in mind that not all websites on the dark web are illegal, but it’s essential to exercise caution. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it illegal to access the dark web?
- Can I be traced while using the dark web?
- What should I do if I encounter illegal content on the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is against the law.
You can’t just Google “Silk Road” and hope to land on the dark website. The dark web and Tor are often used by journalists and whistleblowers, including Edward Snowden himself, to exchange sensitive information. The Ashley Madison data dump, for instance, was posted to a site only accessible to Tor users. Most people know about the dark web within the context of stolen identity and personal information. Since the dark web is anonymous and unregulated, it has become a marketplace for selling stolen passwords, IDs, and other forms of private information. For all the illegal activity and secrecy that takes place on Tor, you may be surprised to learn its origin story.
While the Tor Browser provides anonymity, it is not foolproof. It’s essential to take additional precautions to protect your identity.
If you come across illegal content or activities on the dark web, report it to the relevant authorities.
- Further, if you try to buy something on the dark web — even if it’s not illegal — there’s a chance you’ll be scammed.
- As a general rule, you should always use a VPN and only use Tor when you need to.
- Other examples of compatible web browsers include the Onion browser, Firefox and Chrome, but the latter two require you to install a separate plugin.
- It uses masked IP addresses that are accessible only with a specific web browser.
- Your email inbox, online banking and Google Drive folders are undiscoverable via a web browser.
By following these steps and exercising caution, you can explore the dark web safely and responsibly. Remember to prioritize your privacy and security while navigating this hidden part of the internet.
Can the FBI track a VPN?
The FBI and other law enforcement agencies cannot track encrypted VPN traffic, even if they have a court order. However, they may force your internet service provider (ISP) to disclose your connection and usage logs, which will show that you use a VPN.