What If You Find Your Personal Information On The Dark Web?
How to Get to the Dark Web
It is not quite uncommon to hear people use the terms ‘darknet’ and ‘deep web’ interchangeably, but that is very inaccurate. There is a slight difference between them, that might take you from scrolling down interesting hidden content – to conducting an illicit activity, and sometimes even gamble with your fate. Some of this information can be extremely valuable on darknet forums. For example, while a Social Security number might go for $2, email credentials could sell for as much as $120,000.
- A VPN can mask your real IP and keep your identity and activity safe on the Dark Web.
- It is now one of the most common browsers used to access the dark web, using databases to help people make their way around and find the information they need.
- The Onion Browser is far from ideal, but that’s entirely thanks to Apple’s policy of policing what iOS users can and cannot do on their own devices.
- Setting up the non-administrative surfer account is to prevent personal activities from using the VPN.
- However, using a mobile device can potentially expose you to additional security risks, so it’s important to take additional precautions.
FBI, Europol, Interpol, and many other national police agencies regularly police the Dark Web. The dark web, also called the darknet or black web, refers to websites that are not indexed by normal search engines and need special software like Tor to access. Dark web websites offer privacy, anonymity, content, and goods that you can’t get on the surface web. The dark web is the unregulated part of the deep web, which encompasses all parts of the web not indexed by search engines. The best dark web sites provide access to educational materials, host secure services, or bypass government censorship. Dark websites are hidden under layers of encryption that cloak user activity, which can be a boon to whistleblowers, activists, and others who don’t want anyone tracking their activity.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires specific software and configurations to access. This section of the internet is often associated with anonymity and privacy, making it appealing for various reasons, both benign and malicious. Here is a detailed guide on how to get to dark web.
Understanding the Layers of the Internet
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. Criminals frequently use it for purchasing weapons, drugs and fake IDs on illicit markets. Protect yourself against malicious actors by installing antimalware and antivirus protection on your computer and mobile device.
Before you dive into how to get to dark web, it’s essential to understand the structure of the internet:
Dark web sites, on the other hand, almost always use the .onion TLD. Without it, private information like court records and business intranets (the backend side of things that only employees can access) would be out in the open. A VPN also changes your IP address before you connect to the Tor Network, making it even more difficult for anyone to figure out your real IP address. This means you can use ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, Lightway, for the best possible speeds when using Tor to browse the dark web. ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN to use when browsing the dark web.
In some parts of the world, simply using a browser like Tor can get you flagged by these agencies, even if you don’t partake in illegal activity. The deep web is the private layer, and it’s often password-protected. It’s the biggest part of the web, taking up about 96% of the internet. Deep web pages can’t be accessed through a simple search, as search engines do not index them — it’s a layer of the internet only accessible to people with a specific link or login credentials. While Tor is designed to give you privacy while browsing the dark web, it’s not entirely safe. There might be malicious nodes with the Tor network, and there’s always the risk of your IP address leaking.
- Surface Web: This is the part of the internet that is accessible through standard search engines like Google. It accounts for a tiny fraction of the internet.
- Deep Web: This consists of content that is not indexed by search engines, such as private databases, academic resources, and subscription services.
- Dark Web: A small segment of the deep web that requires specific software to access, where anonymity is preserved.
They were the most lucrative products on the Silk Road marketplace too. Dark web users can also find and buy other illegal substances, such as banned energy drinks. Once you have the necessary tools, you can visit dark web sites by adding their domains to the Tor browser’s address bar. It may be wise to connect to a VPN server before browsing via Tor (though expect to experience a slower connection).
There are a variety of private and encrypted email services, instructions for installing an anonymous operating system and advanced tips for the privacy-conscious. Dark web search engines exist, but even the best are challenged to keep up with the constantly shifting landscape. The experience is reminiscent of searching the web in the late 1990s.
Necessary Tools for Access
To access the dark web, you’ll need the following tools:
- Tor Browser: This is the most common tool for accessing the dark web. It anonymizes your internet traffic by routing it through several volunteer-operated servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN can add an extra layer of security and privacy while browsing the dark web.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-focused OS like Tails, which runs from a USB stick and leaves no trace on the computer’s hard drive.
Steps to Get to the Dark Web
Follow these steps to access the dark web safely:
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website to download and install the Tor Browser.
- Set Up a VPN: Before using the Tor Browser, connect to a reliable VPN to enhance your privacy.
- Open Tor Browser: Launch the Tor Browser, which typically opens to a homepage with links to .onion sites.
- Explore .onion Sites: These are the unique web addresses used on the dark web. Ensure you have links to trusted sites as they are often not indexed.
Safety Tips for Browsing the Dark Web
While accessing the dark web, it’s crucial to remain safe and secure:
- Do not share personal information: Your anonymity is key; avoid disclosing any personal details.
- Be cautious of scams: Many websites on the dark web may attempt to defraud you.
- Avoid illegal activities: Engaging in illegal activities can have serious consequences.
- Keep your software updated: Regularly update your Tor Browser and VPN for the best security.
FAQs about the Dark Web
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Yes, accessing the dark web is legal; however, engaging in illegal activities while on it is not.
Can I access the dark web without Tor?
Accessing the dark web is primarily done through the Tor network, although there are alternatives like I2P and Freenet.
What are the risks of browsing the dark web?
Risks include exposure to illegal content, scams, and potential malware. Always take precautions.
Can I remain anonymous on the dark web?
While Tor offers a degree of anonymity, it does not guarantee complete privacy. Users should still be cautious.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely explore the dark web. Always prioritize your safety and privacy when navigating this lesser-known part of the internet.