While the internet has dramatically expanded the ability to share knowledge, it has also made issues of privacy more complicated. Many people are justifiably worried about their personal information being stolen or viewed, including bank records, credit card info, and browser or login history. The danger of the dark web comes when you aren’t careful with what you access. You may easily fall victim to hackers and give away personal information without intention. Or, you could stumble on illegal activity without even realizing it. There is also potential for psychological damage since there is so much illegal activity and you may find deeply disturbing material.
Navigating the dark web requires extra layers of privacy, not just because of its content but due to legal scrutiny. The US Supreme Court has indicated that even casual browsing could lead to legal consequences. Just like when navigating the surface web, the dark web has similar risks that should be taken into account when protecting your personal information. There are also many tools that can be use to monitor the dark web and scan for personally identifiable information and even respond to attacks. Many dark websites are set up by scammers, who constantly move around to avoid the wrath of their victims. Even commerce sites that may have existed for a year or more can suddenly disappear if the owners decide to cash in and flee with the escrow money they’re holding on behalf of customers.
Think of the dark web, then, as a small subset of the deep web that regular browsers can’t access. When you access the dark web, you’re not surfing the interconnected servers you regularly interact with. Instead, everything stays internal on the Tor network, which provides security and privacy to everyone equally. It’s a hidden collective of sites that you could only access through a special browser.
Understanding the Dark Web
Tools such as anonymous browsing software, such as Tor (The Onion Router), were created to address these concerns. The next decade saw Tor becoming a significant tool for online anonymity and allowing users to access websites on the ‘dark net’, where dark web content now exists. The dark web is also not indexed by search engines, but it is different in that it can only be accessed using specialised and highly secure browsers, such as Tor. These browsers disguise and anonymise web traffic using a global network of servers, similar to how VPNs operate. The Dark Web is the portion of the Internet that can only be accessed through specific software.
If you’re thinking of the dark web as a series of hidden servers in an underground bunker in Chile, then you’re wrong. It’s simply a part of the internet, as ephemeral as the former – only existing when you know the right way to access it. In intangible terms, the dark web refers to a segment of the internet that can be accessed only using specific software, tools and authority permissions. In intangible terms, the dark web refers to the world of the internet that is supplied using overlay networks – networks laid on top of existing networks.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access and is often associated with anonymity and privacy.
”, the search results page returns Internet locations (i.e. webpages) that contain those words. Some examples of things on the Deep Web include email, subscription content (like Netflix), online banking, databases, internal company networks, or even non-public social media pages. Generally any webpage or content that requires a login or custom tool to access will be considered part of the Deep Web. The deep web is the part of the internet that’s behind closed doors, consisting of databases and pages that are only meant for a specific group of people within an organization.
What You Need to Get Started
While the dark web has a reputation for being a haven for illegal activities, it can also be a fascinating and informative place for those who know how to navigate it. In this blog, we’ll take a look at what the dark web is, how to access it, and how you can explore it safely and securely. It’s a Firefox-based app that’s downloaded and installed on your computer. After installation, you can use Tor to access the public internet as well as .onion websites. Knowing how to safely use Tor means using it alongside other cybersecurity tools, so set up a VPN to benefit from end-to-end encryption. And make sure your network’s protected by a firewall and the best antivirus software.
Before you learn how to surf the dark web, ensure you have the right tools and understand the risks involved. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tor Browser: This is the most common way to access the dark web. It anonymizes your internet traffic.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN can provide an additional layer of security and privacy.
- Search Engines: There are specific search engines designed for the dark web, such as Ahmia or DuckDuckGo.
- Safety Measures: Familiarize yourself with best practices for online security, including not sharing personal information.
Steps to Surf the Dark Web
Follow these steps to begin your journey on the dark web:
- Install the Tor Browser: Download and install the official Tor Browser from the Tor Project Website.
- Use a VPN: Before launching Tor, connect to a VPN for enhanced security.
- Open Tor Browser: Launch the browser and allow it to connect to the Tor network.
- Access .onion Sites: Use specific URLs that end with .onion to visit dark web sites.
- Follow Security Protocols: Be wary of any links and do not download files from untrusted sources.
- The Dark Web (or deep web), is a seemingly hidden world a far cry from the internet we know, love, and have become accustomed too.
- He covers tech and gaming for Lifehacker, and has also written for Digital Trends, EGM, Business Insider, IGN, and more.
- It will impact your device’s performance and your VPN and other Tor apps may not function properly with Lockdown Mode enabled.
- So, if the website looks fishy, close the tab, and forget about it.
- You can access most of the Deep Web using the same browser you use for the Surface Web.
Configure Browser
Best Practices for Safety
To ensure your experience is secure while learning how to surf the dark web, consider these tips:
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid using your real name, email address, or any identifiable information.
- Avoid Illegal Activities: Accessing illegal content can have severe consequences.
- Be Cautious: Many sites can be scams or contain harmful content; exercise caution.
- Use Encryption: Utilize encrypted communication services to protect your conversations.
- Regularly Update Software: Keep your Tor Browser and any other relevant software up to date.
FAQs About Surfing the Dark Web
Q: Is it illegal to access the dark web?
A: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities can have legal repercussions.
Q: Can my internet service provider see that I’m using Tor?
A: While your ISP can see that you are using Tor, it cannot see your activity within the Tor network.
Q: Do I need to pay for anything on the dark web?
A: Many resources are free, but some services or products may require payment, often in cryptocurrencies.
Q: Is the dark web safe?
A: The dark web has inherent risks, but by following security practices, you can enhance your safety.
Conclusion
Learning how to surf the dark web can be intriguing but requires caution and awareness of potential dangers. By using the right tools, following the outlined steps, and practicing safety, you can explore this hidden part of the internet responsibly.
