Not Sure Yet? Learn More About VPN
Given its anonymous nature, the dark web clearly has an obvious appeal for cybercriminals. The most obvious type of internet activity is the buying and selling of black market goods and services, from illegal drugs to illegal content. Cybercriminals may also run scams when selling such items, for example by taking a person’s money and not delivering the required product. As mentioned above, Tor offers multiple layers of encryption as you browse the dark web. This adds one more layer of security and anonymity between yourself and bad actors on the internet.
Understanding the Darknet
The deep web contains material that is not indexed by search engines. You may be surprised, but you go to the deep web every day because it makes up about 90% of the entire web. For example, your Facebook posts are not indexed and cannot be found through Google search.
The darknet is a part of the internet that requires specific software and configurations to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also provides a platform for privacy and freedom of information. Understanding how to access the darknet safely and responsibly is crucial for anyone interested in exploring this hidden part of the web.
They are not backed by strong encryption techniques and they can expose you. The dark web is full of cyber security threats, and you could be a sufferer if you take risks. People who value privacy are more adept at using the Tor browser. Journalists, activists, and everyday users who know the importance of anonymity while on the dark web or any other platform prefer Tor. Anyone who is shocked by what is written on the Clearnet will probably have a heart attack from Darknet content. Some might find it thrilling to watch in real-time what is usually only shown on the silver screen or in TV shows.
Although people use terms like the dark web, “deep web,” and “darknet” interchangeably, they don’t exactly mean the same thing. The dark web is a little challenging to access if you don’t know anything about it. However, it hosts tons of communities and marketplaces and has a thriving economy driven by the sale of illicit goods and information. The term itself is known to send chills down one’s spine because there are thousands of stories about the dark web and rampant cybercrime. As the threat of identity theft is ever present, concerns about the dark web are certainly founded.
If the PGP cannot be verified, the original owner has not made the site you’re viewing, and it’s likely a scam site that’s built to capture user information. Other websites might recommend using The Hidden Wiki to navigate the dark web. However, in February 2024 we found a majority of links on the site to be outdated and defunct. Some websites have multiple links available, which can all be verified using a PGP signature.
Still, even in a network thriving on a promise of anonymity, the breadcrumbs of identity can leave a trail. Nira has it’s SOC 2 Type 2 certification for three trust service criteria (Security, Availability, and Confidentiality) and is audited annually. Nira has also attained its International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) certification. But as the dark domain is largely regulated, avoid visiting dark web domains before verifying their authenticity.
With user data from Dread, it can verify accounts submitting .onion links, authenticating whether they are genuine site owners or scammers with more accuracy. We tried out the website ourselves and found it had functioning links to .onion news sites and marketplaces. However, it’s important to note that these links are always changing and might become defunct or compromised at any time. Once you’ve got access to the dark web, there are several tools and strategies you’ll need to follow to stay safe while browsing it. It’s a place where illegal activities are not uncommon, and there are ill-intentioned individuals who are ready to exploit unsuspecting users. So, download your chosen VPN app on your phone, install it, and make sure it’s connected before you even think about accessing the dark web.
What You Need to Access the Darknet
It is available for free download and installation on the official website. You can use a VPN and your existing browser’s private/incognito mode to hide your Tor Browser download. Jory MacKay is a writer and award-winning editor with over a decade of experience for online and print publications. He has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Victoria and a passion for helping people identify and avoid fraud. She’s passionate about Aura’s mission of creating a safer internet for everyone. Daniel is a dark web resource that lets you look through lists of around 7000 different .onion sites classified into various useful categories.
Before diving into how to access the darknet, you need to prepare the necessary tools:
- Tor Browser: The most common method for accessing the darknet is through the Tor Browser, a modified version of Firefox that enables anonymous browsing.
- VPN Service: Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an extra layer of security and privacy.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-focused OS like Tails, which is designed for use with the Tor network.
Steps to Access the Darknet
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to access the darknet:
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website to download the browser. Install it on your device.
- Set Up VPN: Before launching the Tor Browser, connect to a reliable VPN service to mask your IP address.
- Open Tor Browser: Launch the Tor Browser and allow it to connect to the network.
- Browse Darknet Websites: Use specific URLs that end in .onion, a domain exclusive to the Tor network.
Safety Tips for Accessing the Darknet
When learning how to access the darknet, it is essential to prioritize your safety:
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Stay anonymous by not sharing any personal data.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Files downloaded from the darknet may contain malware or viruses.
- Use Secure Communication: If engaging with others, use encrypted communication tools.
Common Questions About the Darknet
- Basically, it’s a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines.
- There is no reliable method of removing your sensitive data from the Dark Web.
- With VPN, you can enjoy increased privacy and security whenever you go online.
- Is everything on the darknet illegal?
- No, while there are many illegal activities, some areas of the darknet provide safe spaces for free speech and privacy.
- Do I need a special internet connection?
- No special connection is required; a standard internet connection will work with the Tor Browser.
- Can I access the darknet on my smartphone?
- Yes, there are versions of the Tor Browser available for mobile devices, but caution is advised.
Conclusion
Accessing the darknet requires careful preparation and a clear understanding of the potential risks. By following the steps outlined above on how to access the darknet, you can navigate this hidden web more safely. Remember always to prioritize security and anonymity while exploring.
