Understanding the Dark Web
ProPublica — Investigative Journalism News Site
Next, disable Javascript in your Tor browser to prevent malicious scripts from attacking your browser sessions. You can disable Javascript by clicking on “Preferences” in the macOS app or “Settings” in the Windows app. That means that when Tor is compromised, or perhaps there’s a new vulnerability exploit in the Tor network, a VPN will still protect your privacy. The compromised Tor exploit might trace back to you, but then again, your VPN will lead it somewhere else – which makes it impossible to be traced back to you. It’s important to arm yourself with a good VPN (Virtual Private Network) when you want to enter the dark web to protect your privacy and anonymity.
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, typically emphasizing privacy and anonymity.
The deep web refers to non-indexed webpages as a whole, while dark web refers more specifically to the parts of the deep web where you can engage in illicit activities. If you use the widest definition of the deep web, then it’s a vast ocean of websites. With how mythologized the deep web and dark web have become, you’d be excused for thinking it’s difficult or dangerous to access. In reality, there’s nothing inherently dangerous about accessing either, and doing so is surprisingly simple. Keep reading this guide to learn more about what these terms actually mean, and how you can find your way into the underbelly of the internet.
How to Access the Dark Web
The dark web has some legitimate uses, such as people using it to protect their anonymity in countries with heavy censorship or reading news unaffiliated with political parties or agendas. The difference between the dark web and the deep web is that the deep web refers to websites and web pages that aren’t indexed by search engines, like login pages and payment portals. The dark web, by contrast, is configured on darknets, which are online networks that can be accessed only with special software and techniques.
Accessing the dark web can be done safely by following the steps outlined below:
By connecting to a trusted VPN (or Virtual Private Network) first and then using Tor, your connection to the Tor network will be entirely hidden from your ISP or other prying eyes. This gives you another layer of privacy and is a widely used method known as ‘Tor over VPN’. For an additional layer of privacy, make sure you use one of the top server locations to connect to using your VPN. So, we know accessing the dark web is legal and provides many benefits to well-meaning users, such as enhanced privacy and defying censorship. Within the deep web is another part of the internet called the dark web. Dark web sites are so well-hidden they can’t be accessed with normal browsers such as Chrome, Firefox or Safari.
Now that you have what looks like Mozilla Firefox running in front of you. You can simply enter normal URLs and enjoy surfing the web with privacy. Better yet, go to the dark web hidden wiki (link opens only on TOR), with an indexing of dark web websites. This is the furthest I’m taking you, and from here on, you can go wherever you want.
- Download Tor Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor browser. It anonymizes your internet traffic.
- Install VPN: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can add an extra layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Disable Scripts: Ensure that scripts are disabled in your Tor browser settings to prevent potential vulnerabilities.
- Access Dark Web Sites: Use specific URLs that end in .onion, which are only reachable through the Tor network.
The Dark Web is full of criminal activity, but it’s also place where dissidents and whistle-blowers can anonymously share information. In countries with restrictive internet surveillance, the Dark Web may be the only place to safely voice criticisms against government and other powerful entities. In addition, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web, such as buying or selling illegal goods, could lead to criminal charges. It is important to be aware of the laws in your country and to use caution if you decide to access the dark web.
The interface is simple to navigate, and all features and settings have helpful explanations. Plus, the provider allows unlimited connections, so you can use it to surf dark web sites on as many devices as you want. The online chat feature is useful for getting information about dark web sites — there are only a few users, but they’re very active. Daniel provides access to many tools — it has an online chatroom, an .onion link checker, a list of dark web links, and an option to get an encrypted email address. Also, always verify that you’re accessing the Tor Project website via HTTPS. Most search engines do not work on the dark web, because they are not designed to search for “.onion” URLs.
Safety Precautions
When navigating the dark web, it is crucial to prioritize your safety:
- Use Encrypted Communication: Consider using encryption tools for any communication.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Always avoid sharing any identifiable personal data.
- Be Aware of Scams: Exercise caution as scams are prevalent in the dark web.
- Use Trusted Sources: Research and find reputable dark web directories.
Common Misconceptions
Several myths surround the dark web, including:
- It’s Only for Criminal Activities: While illegal activities do occur, the dark web also hosts legitimate sites focused on privacy.
- It’s Extremely Dangerous: It can be safe if accessed correctly following necessary precautions.
- All Dark Web Sites are Untrustworthy: Some websites offer valuable resources, such as forums for whistleblowers and activists.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
- The Government Employees Insurance Company (GEICO) is a privately owned insurance group with 70 branches in the US.
- Software firm Hyperion Gray put together a map showing all 6,608 dark web sites crawled during January 2018.
- “In some cases, users will sell access information to organizations in what are called IABs (initial access brokers).
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities on it is against the law.
Do I need special hardware to access the dark web?
No special hardware is required, but a secure operating system, such as Tails or Qubes, may enhance privacy.
Can the dark web affect my computer’s security?
Yes, there are risks involved, such as exposure to malware and potential hacking attempts. Using security measures is crucial.
How can I ensure my anonymity on the dark web?
Utilizing a VPN, ensuring scripts are disabled, and avoiding personal information can help maintain anonymity.
By understanding the necessary steps and precautions, you can effectively learn how to access the dark web while minimizing risks to your privacy and security.
