Understanding the Darknet
He’s tested hundreds of VPN services and his research has featured on the BBC, The New York Times and more. Regardless of being a business, parent, or any other user of the web, you’ll want to take precautions to keep your information and private life off the dark web. With many Tor-based sites being overtaken by police authorities across the globe, there is a clear danger of becoming government target for simply visiting a dark website.
Under the cloak of anonymity, cybercriminals and threat actors can operate, selling an array of tools and services that can be used to wreak havoc on organizations. There’s a lot for CISOs to come to grips with and here are 10 things to be aware of when navigating the dark web. Basically, it’s a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. As an average internet user, you won’t come across the dark web since you need a special browser to access it. It’s certainly not something you need to stress about in your day-to-day browsing, and you shouldn’t let it scare you off the internet. Unless you actively seek it out, you’ll likely never have any contact with the dark web in your lifetime.
You can’t just type “silk road” into Google and expect to see a dark website. Whether you’re for or against using the dark web, it helps to know what it is and how to navigate it. If you want to take a chance and browse the dark web, follow the instructions in this guide and ensure you download and use Clario as an added layer of protection.
Tor is an open-source browser that allows people to access web pages on the dark web. The name “Tor” is an acronym that stands for The Onion Router, and the term “onion” isn’t as random as it sounds. This special browser uses layers of connections—like an onion—to keep the actions of its users secret while exploring the web. And just as there are reasons to remain anonymous in real life, there may be reasons you wish to remain anonymous on the internet. The dark web is a network of secret websites that you can’t find without a special anonymous browser.
For instance, did you know you can unknowingly break the law while browsing the internet? There are a lot of VPNs in the market, but not all VPNs were created equal. We recommend using Clario’s VPN, which is a highly-rated, easy to use and reliable VPN software. It ensures that your data remains hidden, and that you stay safe while browsing, among other benefits. But we also know from Moore and Rid’s research that the majority of sites on the dark web are used for illegal activity. Therefore, we have to respect how this environment has the potential to be very unsafe.
The darknet is a part of the internet that requires specific software and configurations to access. Unlike the surface web, which is indexed by standard search engines, the darknet is comprised of hidden networks that prioritize privacy and anonymity.
The hotspots for illegal activity on the Dark Web are marketplaces and forums where bad actors transact illegal products and services. To understand how Tor actually works you need to know what happens when you typically search the web. Each time you visit a website, you can be traced back to your exact location thanks to that IP address. In 2008, the Tor Project launched the official Tor Browser, which is now the most popular way to access the dark web.
Naval Research Lab in the 1990s, onion routers get their name from the onion-like layering technique that conceals information about user activity and location. Government cyber teams can take such websites down, arrest the owners and then use the website to track and follow users that show activity on the website. Opennet connections are easier to use, but darknet connections provide more security against attackers on the network. From this point onwards, you can enjoy complete anonymity and security while being able to access “.onion” websites and other dark web browser domains. 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.
What You Need to Access the Darknet
To access the darknet, you typically need the following:
- Specialized Software: Most users utilize Tor (The Onion Router) to navigate the darknet.
- Safe Browsing Practices: It’s essential to adopt a cautious mindset and understand the risks of accessing this part of the internet.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN can add an extra layer of security to your connection.
Steps to Access the Darknet
- Proton VPN is part of the Proton family of services provided by Proton Technologies AG.
- This, of course, isn’t entirely true, as you can find some educational and useful – above all LEGAL – sites that you can’t find on the surface web.
- The subverted nodes look for messages involving cryptocurrency transactions, and appear to redirect cryptocurrency transactions to the attackers own digital wallets.
- Learn more about our various degree and certification programs today by requesting more information.
Proton VPN
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how do I access the darknet:
- Download the Tor Browser:
Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser.
- Install the Tor Browser:
Follow the installation instructions specific to your operating system.
- Use a VPN (recommended):
Before launching the Tor Browser, connect to a reliable VPN for additional privacy.
- Launch the Tor Browser:
Open the Tor Browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- Navigate Darknet Websites:
Use .onion URLs to visit websites within the darknet. These websites are not accessible through standard browsers.
Safety and Security Tips
Accessing the darknet can expose users to various risks; thus, consider the following precautions:
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information.
- Use Pseudonyms: Create usernames that do not link back to your real identity.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Downloading files may expose you to malware.
- Be Wary of Scams: Many darknet marketplaces and forums contain scams; always proceed with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is accessing the darknet illegal?
Accessing the darknet itself is not illegal, but the activities conducted on it may violate various laws. It is important to understand local regulations before entering.
2. Can I be tracked on the darknet?
While the darknet offers privacy, it is not completely immune to tracking. Law enforcement agencies can use various methods to identify users, especially if they are not careful.
3. What are some common uses of the darknet?
The darknet has diverse uses, including:
- Privacy-focused forums
- Whistleblowing platforms
- Illicit marketplaces
4. How can I safely use the darknet?
Adhering to best practices such as using a VPN, remaining anonymous, and avoiding illegal activities can help improve your safety while using the darknet.
Understanding how do I access the darknet is crucial for those interested in exploring this hidden part of the internet responsibly. Utilize the tools and precautions outlined to navigate safely and protect your anonymity.
