Should You Use A VPN And Tor?
Understanding the Dark Web
While it is possible to use iPhone’s Lockdown Mode for extra security while browsing the dark web, we don’t necessarily recommend this. It will impact your device’s performance and your VPN and other Tor apps may not function properly with Lockdown Mode enabled. The deep web is full of risks, including malware that wants access to your data, as well as harmful advertisements and trackers that track your online activity.
In fact, our research team uses this method to gather information on darknet marketplaces. To safely access the dark web on Windows and macOS, you can combine the Tor Browser with a VPN to hide your identity. The safest way to access the dark web is to use a desktop computer and the Tor Browser. Tor (The Onion Router) is a free, open-source system designed to enable anonymous communication across the internet. To access the dark web on a mobile device, we recommend using a VPN with the Tor Browser on Android, or using the Onion Browser and Orbot on iOS. Darren Guccione is the CEO and co-founder of Keeper Security, the world’s most popular password manager and secure digital vault.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines, requiring specific software to access. While often associated with illegal activities, the dark web also hosts forums, data archives, and various services that may appeal to privacy advocates and researchers. If you’re interested in learning how to get on the dark web on iPhone, there are specific steps to follow to ensure safety and security.
The keyword in that example is “onioname,” which is right at the start of the .onion link. With a readable site name like that, people will know what to expect when they click on the link. Archive.today allows you to take a snapshot of a web page, which will remain online even if the original web page disappears. The site saves text and images, but it can’t save videos and sounds. This is a blog with cybersecurity tips created by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a popular non-profit that specializes in digital privacy. The blog contains tons of useful guides about how you can avoid online surveillance.
Using the Tor network makes your identity difficult to be tracked, but not impossible. Therefore, it is safer to use dedicated VPN service provider tools. Moreover, the completion of a transaction is no guarantee that the goods will arrive.
Preparing Your iPhone
Some users looking for how to access the dark web can do that simply because they want to check whether their personal data is for sale. Still, even indices also return high numbers of timed-out connections and also provide 404 errors. Some useful darknet search engines that indicate .onion sites include NotEvil, Candle, Ahmia, and Torch. Whether your search engine of choice is Google, Bing, Baidu, Yahoo!
Before accessing the dark web, it’s crucial to prepare your iPhone appropriately. This preparation includes:
By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, you can access the Dark Web on your iPhone while prioritizing your safety, security, and anonymity. It’s important to note that while the Tor Browser provides a level of anonymity, it does not guarantee complete security. Your online activities can still be monitored by malicious actors or government agencies, so it’s crucial to take additional precautions when accessing the Dark Web.
Tor stands for The Onion Router and it’s a browser based on Firefox, specifically made with accessing “.onion” websites in mind. Your internet service provider and the websites you visit can detect when Tor is being used because Tor exit IP addresses are public. An easy way to figure out whether a website is on the dark web is to see if it ends in .onion. Normal websites on the surface and deep web usually end in .com, .org, or .co. Websites hosted on the Tor network end in .onion (to indicate the network’s multiple layers of encryption). It contains pages that are intentionally hidden from search engines, all of which require you to use anonymity software, like the Tor Browser, to access them.
- Which of the methods above is the safest way to access the dark web?
- Surface web search engines can’t access the dark web, but specialized dark web search engines can help you find what you’re looking for.
- Explore the free world, full of information, and knowledge inaccessible anywhere else.
- It is nearly impossible to trace the activity on onion sites, including the identities of people who use them.
- Installing a reliable VPN.
- Using a secure browser for safe browsing.
- Understanding the legal implications of using the dark web in your region.
On mobile devices, you’ll need to download specific software to access the dark web safely. Dark web websites look pretty much like any other site, but there are important differences. That’s “a special-use top level domain suffix designating an anonymous hidden service reachable via the Tor network,” according to Wikipedia. Browsers with the appropriate proxy can reach these sites, but others can’t.
Steps to Access the Dark Web on iPhone
Follow these steps to access the dark web on your iPhone securely:
- Download a VPN: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address. Popular choices include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark.
- Install Tor Browser: The Tor network is a well-known method of accessing the dark web. Unfortunately, there is no official Tor browser app for iOS. You can use the Onion Browser or a similar Tor-compatible app available in the App Store.
- Connect to the VPN: Always connect to your VPN before opening the Onion Browser to enhance your online privacy.
- Open the Onion Browser: Launch the app, which will connect you to the Tor network. You’ll see a browser interface similar to Safari or Chrome.
- Access .onion Sites: You can now visit .onion sites, which are exclusive to the dark web. Make sure to use credible sources to find these sites.
Best Practices for Safety
When exploring the dark web, safety should be a priority.
- Do not share personal information: Avoid entering any identifiable information on any website.
- Be cautious of downloads: Files from the dark web can be malicious. Never download anything unless you trust the source.
- Use strong passwords: Employ unique passwords for your accounts and consider using a password manager.
- Respect legal boundaries: Ensure you’re not engaging in any illegal activities while on the dark web.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web on iPhone
Can I access the dark web on iPhone without a VPN?
While it is technically possible, using a VPN adds a layer of security, protecting your data and privacy.
Is it illegal to browse the dark web on iPhone?
Browsing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, certain activities and sites may be illegal. Always remain aware of the laws in your region.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
If you stumble upon illegal content, it’s best to leave the site immediately and report it to the authorities if necessary.
Can I use the dark web for legitimate purposes?
Yes! The dark web can provide access to privacy-focused services, forums, and information while advocating for freedom of speech and expression.
Conclusion
Learning how to get on the dark web on iPhone can be an eye-opening experience, provided you take the necessary precautions. Always prioritize your security and privacy while navigating this hidden part of the internet.
