How To Access The Dark Web:
Exploring the Dark Web: How Do You Find the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. Understanding how to explore this hidden part of the web can be both intriguing and risky. This article will guide you through the process of finding the dark web safely and responsibly.
You can find out a lot more about the ways these two systems work in our VPN vs Tor comparison. The most commonly-known portion of the Dark web is the Tor network. While there are other networks in the Dark web such as I2P ( the Invisible Internet Project), Freenet, and Riffle, we’re going to concentrate on the Tor network for exploring the Dark web. Christine is passionate about digital freedom and believes VPNs are an essential tool everyone should have access to. The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online. To be sure your activity on the dark web is protected, using a reputable VPN that doesn’t keep logs is recommended.
Facebook operates a widely used secure Dark Web portal to the social network. In addition to Tor’s three layers of encryption, the browser also deletes your browsing history, erases your tracks and prevents sites from identifying and tracking you, explains Wired. Keep in mind that if you use your real name, address, email address or other identifying information anywhere on the dark web, you’re giving away the protections provided by Tor. The U.S. shut down this infamous online black market and prominent member of the dark web in 2013. Search engines don’t index any of the websites on the dark web, which means you can’t get there by using Google or Yahoo or your search engine of choice.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Before diving into the dark web, make sure you have the following tools:
- TOR Browser: The most common method to access the dark web is through the TOR (The Onion Router) browser. It anonymizes your internet connection.
- VPN Service: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an additional layer of security and anonymity as you browse.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-focused OS like Tails to enhance your security.
It is tremendously more vast than the surface web, with some experts estimating that search engines index less than 1% of online content. Other options exist, but they are generally created to fulfill specific purposes, such as file sharing. Theoretically speaking, it should be impossible to locate dark web servers and track visitors. However, in practice, security flaws in Tor and incorrect server configurations can expose this information to those interested in accessing it. We can understand the temptation to explore the Dark Web to see what you’re missing out on — but tread cautiously. If a website is trying to conceal itself from mainstream search engines, ISPs and governments, it probably has a very good reason for doing so.
The dark web — aka, the deep web — is the second layer of the internet, which is not indexed by search engines. Websites and pages in the deep web might include password-protected content, private forums, and personalized resources. 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. Unlike typical web browsers, Tor Browser uses onion routing, which encrypts and routes traffic through multiple servers around the world to hide your IP address and provide private browsing.
Whether this is true or not is a matter of perspective, but it is likely more true in some countries than others. This is a prime example of how the Dark Web can be used for something good just as easily as it can be used for something bad. Although Mullvad has a detailed and independently audited no-logs policy, it is nevertheless based in Sweden, which is a member of the SIGINT Seniors Europe international intelligence-sharing alliance. For its part, Mullvad says that it would “cease operation of our service” if forced by legal means to spy on users. Keep these updated, including Tor and your anti-malware and VPN software. If you go looking for trouble on the dark web, chances are you’ll find it.
- Identifying specific individuals who use the dark web can be quite tricky.
- Various Stanford Health groups had information taken in the MOVEit event, up to 1.6 million patient records.
- Browsing the dark web is riskier than browsing the surface web, because it’s usually difficult to assess website safety.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
However, if you want to stay safe on the dark web, you also need a VPN that provides an additional layer of security. You can find black markets where people advertise drugs, guns, stolen IDs, and more. There is also an abundance of disturbing content, like explicitly violent videos or illegal pornography. You can change Tor’s level of security to “Safer” or “Safest.” Naturally, the highest setting is the safest. However, this setting significantly slows down your internet connection and causes some pages and dark web websites to load incorrectly.
Most of the digital content in the world is not accessible via web search engines. Not surprisingly, the dark web also sells the technical tools and information to set up another dark web. “There are many dark webs already,” says Douglas Lubhan, VP of threat intelligence at BlackFog.
The TOR project also develops Tails, a live, pre-configured Linux distribution that will run on almost any computer. Popularized by Edward Snowden, Tails runs as a discrete operating system on USB flash drives. Tails provides additional layers of security so that Dark Web browsing is not tied directly to a user’s machine. Tails also allows users to store encrypted files, run email programs and PGP, and run the TOR browser. The Dark Web is not entirely malicious, but it’s also not a safe place to visit.
Follow these steps to safely explore the dark web:
- Download and Install the TOR Browser: Visit the official TOR Project website to download the browser.
- Set Up a VPN: Before launching the TOR browser, connect to a reputable VPN service.
- Open the TOR Browser: Once everything is installed and set up, open the TOR browser.
- Access .onion Sites: Use directories like “The Hidden Wiki” or search specifically for .onion links to find resources.
- Stay Aware of Security Risks: Be cautious of malware and scams. Always prioritize your safety and anonymity.
Finding Resources on the Dark Web
When searching for resources on the dark web, consider the following tips:
- Use Directories: Websites like “The Hidden Wiki” list .onion sites and can help you navigate.
- Utilize Forums: Communities often share link collections and recommendations.
- Be Cautious: Some sites may be illegal or harmful. Always prioritize your safety.
FAQs About the Dark Web
Q: Is the dark web illegal?
A: Not everything on the dark web is illegal, but there are many illicit activities. Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities is punishable by law.
Q: How do I protect my identity on the dark web?
A: Use a strong VPN, avoid sharing personal information, and familiarize yourself with the privacy settings of your tools.
Q: Can I access the dark web from any device?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended to use a secured and isolated device. Avoid using your personal computer for accessing the dark web to minimize risks.
Q: What should I avoid on the dark web?
A: Steer clear of illegal marketplaces, scams, and any personal information sharing.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be a captivating experience, but it must be approached with caution. By following the steps outlined above, and utilizing security measures, you can navigate this hidden part of the internet responsibly. Always be aware of the potential risks and prioritize your safety as you explore.
