When it comes to the internet, most people are familiar with the surface web – the part of the World Wide Web that is indexed by search engines like Google and easily accessible to the public. However, there exists a hidden network known as the dark web, which is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires special software to access.
NordVPN allows Tor traffic on all servers and also has Onion Over VPN servers in 2 countries (Switzerland and the Netherlands). Onion Over VPN servers automatically route your traffic through the Tor network, so they allow you to visit dark web sites in regular browsers like Firefox and Chrome, which is very convenient. Its free plan comes with up to 1 GB of storage, 150 messages per day, and 1 email address.
Which Is Better — Tor Over VPN Or VPN Over Tor?
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web contains content that’s only accessible through networks like Tor. Tor browsers create encrypted entry points and pathways for the user, so dark web activity remains anonymous. The encryption technology routes users’ data through a large number of intermediate servers, which protects the users’ identity and guarantees anonymity.
More Articles From The Anonymous Browsing Section
The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, hacking, and the sale of stolen data. However, not all content on the dark web is illicit – it also provides a platform for whistleblowers, journalists, and activists to communicate anonymously.
The surface web, which is also called the visible web and the open web, is any website that search engines can add to their database. This includes not only websites and blogs but also online product listings and even public posts on social media. The Dark Web is a subset of the Deep Web that utilizes encryption software to hide content from search engines and protect its users’ online activities. Accessing sites on this subdomain requires using special-purpose browsers like Tor. The Dark Web refers to everything on the Internet not indexed by search engines, such as medical records, private social media accounts and fee-based content requiring password authentication.
What are the most common crimes on the dark web?
According to the RAND report it's estimated, that over half of the sites on the dark web are linked to criminal activity. The illegal actions include drug trades, crypto currency transactions, weapon purchases, and malware scams.
How to Access the Dark Web
LegalCases — Public Court Decisions From Different Countries
What are the characteristics of dark web?
Due to the high level of encryption, websites are not able to track geolocation and IP of their users, and users are not able to get this information about the host. Thus, communication between darknet users is highly encrypted allowing users to talk, blog, and share files confidentially.
To access the dark web, users must use special software such as Tor (The Onion Router), which anonymizes their internet traffic and allows them to browse websites without revealing their IP address. Once connected to the Tor network, users can visit websites with the .onion domain, which are only accessible through the Tor browser.
There are a few reasons why the dark web isn’t stopped or shut down. First, it’s difficult to track and monitor activity on the dark web since much of it is encrypted. For built-in Tor over VPN functionality, NordVPN operates specialized servers that automatically route you through the Tor network.
What if my Gmail account was found on the dark web?
Update your credentials immediately. Change all passwords associated with the breached email address or account. If your device was compromised, you should update all of your online accounts.
Exploring Websites on the Dark Web
There are thousands of websites on the dark web, covering a wide range of topics and interests. Some of these sites offer forums for discussion, marketplaces for buying and selling goods, and information on topics that may be censored or restricted in certain countries.
- Although all these steps may seem excessive, always remember that once your information is on the dark web, it’s almost impossible to remove it altogether.
- A Hidden Service (also known as an ‘onion service’) is one where not only the user, but also the website itself, have their anonymity protected by Tor.
- A VPN can help disguise your use of Tor and your visits to dark web resources.
- This makes deep web security important for individuals and enterprises alike.
- 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.
It’s important to note that while exploring the dark web can be intriguing, it also comes with risks. Many websites on the dark web are involved in illegal activities, and users may unknowingly expose themselves to malware or scams. It’s crucial to exercise caution and maintain anonymity while browsing the dark web.
Overall, websites on the dark web provide a glimpse into the hidden corners of the internet, offering a unique perspective on online culture and society. Whether you’re interested in privacy, security, or simply curious about what lies beyond the surface web, the dark web presents a fascinating realm to explore.
What’s on the deep web?
The deep web gives users access to far more information than the surface web. This information may simply be pages that aren't important enough to be listed. However, it also includes the latest TV shows, databases that are essential for managing your personal finances, and stories that are censored on the surface web.