Beneath The Surface: Extracting Threat Intelligence From The Dark Web
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, making it a hidden space for various activities, both legal and illegal. Many users are curious about how to access this hidden realm.
It may not be illegal to access the dark web, but doing so comes with considerable risks. The dark web is a place where stumbling into the wrong place (including illegal places) is easy to do. The dark web is an area of the internet only available via software clients. It is most notoriously known for the illegal activity it sometimes facilitates.
The area of the internet we access daily is known as the clear or surface web. The internet opened the door to a realm of possibilities that permanently changed the business landscape and our personal lives. Install Avast SecureLine VPN for iOS to protect your privacy and keep your data from falling into the wrong hands. Install Avast SecureLine VPN for Android to protect your privacy and keep your data from falling into the wrong hands.
Since you are reading this, we suspect that you feel the pull of this place and want to take a look for yourself. But you’ll have to be careful not to wander into something you don’t want to see. When you buy or download files from illegal markets, you put yourself at risk and the police can track down the illegal purchases and prosecute you. Remember to always stay safe when browsing the dark web and never click on any links that look suspicious.
What You Need to Get Started
The terms dark web and deep web are often used interchangeably; they both share functional similarities and operational differences that make them unique in the cybersecurity threat landscape. However, the deep web differs in that it doesn’t require a specialized browser such as TOR to access its contents. The deep web includes anything that is not findable on the surface of the Internet—websites invisible to search engines because they’re not indexed and aren’t meant for general public access. The Dark Web is indeed the place where malicious actors sell, trade, and otherwise share illegal collections of data and illicit goods. McAfee provides everyday internet users with the tools they need to surf safely and confidently.
To explore the dark web, you need specific tools and a cautious mindset. Here’s a rundown of the essential steps:
Let’s take a closer look at the best VPNs you can use to safely access the dark web. Dark Web monitoring is a service provided by Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection, along with an ongoing audit of your digital shadow and constant checks for impersonators. This is true for all threat actors, no matter if they are lone hacktivists, organized cyber-crime, or nation-state operations. Essentially, any webpage that requires a login is part of the deep web. That said, deep web content doesn’t necessarily have to fall into any of these categories.
- Download a Specialized Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser. This browser anonymizes your internet activity and allows access to .onion sites, which are exclusive to the dark web.
- Install a VPN: Although the Tor Browser provides anonymity, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an additional layer of security and helps mask your IP address.
- Keep Your Security in Mind: Ensure your operating system and software applications are up to date. Consider utilizing security tools like antivirus and anti-malware programs.
Conversely, the deep web is a regular part of the online experience for almost every internet user. By monitoring the dark web, security teams can gain information that will enable them to stay ahead of the threats. For instance, knowing if an organization’s data has been leaked can help security analysts change the relevant credentials and secure their systems before an attack occurs. Intranets, or internal networks used by companies and academic institutions, cannot be accessed by the public. They require access to a specific VPN service and credentials before they can be viewed. Organizations use intranets for internal communication and documentation and for hosting internal online tools.
The most popular search engine for the dark web is DuckDuckGo’s “onion service.” It allows users to search the dark web without compromising their anonymity. Identity theft monitoring is critical if you want to keep your private information from being misused. All types of personal data can be distributed online for a profit. Passwords, physical addresses, bank account numbers, and social security numbers circulate in the dark web all the time.
The VPN is a second layer of extra protection, on top of the protection that the Tor network already offers. The “Hidden Wiki” (which can be accessed in a normal browser) offers a large collection of dark web links, but be careful, as many of those links are to dangerous websites. The same anonymity that publishers enjoy on the dark web can be utilized by users who want to read the available information.
How to Access the Dark Web
Once you have the necessary tools in place, follow these steps:
- Open the VPN and connect to a secure server.
- Launch the Tor Browser and accept any prompts it presents.
- Once the browser is open, you can enter .onion links directly into the address bar or search for them through directories dedicated to dark web resources.
Best Practices for Safety
- The Tor Browser is the easiest way to access Tor and thus, the Dark Web.
- The project soon evolved to become Freenet — a platform for free speech online.
- Sometimes people use the term deep web interchangeably with the dark web, but the two are not the same.
- 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.
- Dark web sites are so well-hidden they can’t be accessed with normal browsers such as Chrome, Firefox or Safari.
Exploring the dark web can expose users to potential risks. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Do Not Reveal Personal Information: Keep your identity and personal data completely confidential.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Files on the dark web can carry malware. It’s best to stay away from downloads unless necessary and safe.
- Be Wary of Scams: The dark web is notorious for scams and fraudulent activities. Always conduct thorough research before engaging in any transactions.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
What sites can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of sites, including forums, marketplaces, and information pages. Some are legal, such as privacy-focused forums, while others may offer illegal items or services.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities while there is against the law.
How do I know if a site is safe on the dark web?
Look for user reviews, forums, and other feedback that can indicate the reliability of a site. Use caution and trust your instincts before proceeding.
Conclusion
Understanding how do you get on the dark web requires the right tools and a focused approach. While it can be a place for valuable information and privacy, the associated risks demand that users stay vigilant and informed. Always prioritize safety and security when navigating this hidden part of the internet.
