Understanding the Darknet
- This part of the internet also hosts vast amounts of child pornography, with some websites reaching tens or hundreds of thousands of users.
- The thesis project of Ian Clarke, a student at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, the Freenet was intended as a way to anonymously communicate, exchange files, and interact online.
- The Tor Browser is the easiest way to access Tor and thus, the Dark Web.
- These .onion URL addresses usually consist of a set of random alpha-numerical strings and can only be accessed with the Tor Browser.
The darknet is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. This hidden segment of the web is often associated with various activities, including illicit trade and privacy-centric communication.
Not a problem if you use a trusted VPN provider, perhaps, but it should generally be a case of VPN vs. Tor? While the dark web may not be the monster that it’s made out to be, its very existence poses a risk to the rest of the World Wide Web. Organizations constantly face the risk of data breaches, but the existence of the dark web highlights it. Instead of ending in .com or .co, darknet websites end up with .onion extension. According to Wikipedia, that’s “the main use of top-level domain suffix designating an unidentified hidden service reachable using the Tor network,” Wikipedia. However, browsers with proper proxy can reach these darknet websites; with a normal browser, you can’t reach there.
The USP here is that users can use it to anonymously host IPv4 and IPv6 services. Although it might look a little plain, Not Evil is an incredibly powerful dark web search engine that has indexed millions of hidden links and is one of the most in-depth options available. They simply don’t have the same resources available to them that Google has. There are also numerous levels of security that can be configured by selecting the ‘onion’ logo in the top left and selecting the security settings. The security modes are labelled as ‘standard’, ‘safer’ and ‘safest’, with the safest mode disabling JavaScript on all sites and the safer mode disabling automatic play on all audio and video. Which mode you choose should reflect how seriously you take your online safety and how much you value convenience in your browsing.
These servers mask your origin and may emulate locations from many other places in the world. The Deep Web is largely owned by large corporates or governments. Information found on the Deep Web is usually safeguarded behind powerful firewalls and kept away from search engines, such as medical records, government reports, financial records, and so on. This information is never exposed to the public for good reasons.
We’ll navigate you through this intricate maze, uncovering its secrets while ensuring your online safety. Data breaches happen all the time, and your login credentials and other data might be on the dark web already. Unless you’re on the dark web yourself, the only way to know whether or not someone is selling your data is to perform a dark web scan.
We highly recommend a top VPN like NordVPN if you are considering accessing the dark web. NordVPN offers a number of dark web-specific features, such as Onion over VPN servers and robust AES 256-bit encryption. VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 49% off.
It’s also important to note that browsing the dark web on a mobile device can be more dangerous than on a desktop or PC. Dark web sites can track your location (using GPS or WiFi location tracking) and access other information easily when you’re using a mobile device. The Dark Web is a fascinating place where you can find all sorts of illegal activity going on. From drug dealing to arms trafficking, the Dark Web is a hotbed of criminal activity.
Why Access the Darknet?
The dark internet is designed to provide anonymity by keeping communication private through encryption and routing online content through multiple web servers. While the dark web is often depicted as an anarchic forum for criminal activity, that’s not necessarily true. The darknet is simply an anonymous space on the web that can be abused or appreciated in turn. Several technical features make the Dark Web a unique subset of the Deep Web.
People may wish to access the darknet for various reasons, including:
- Privacy: To communicate and browse anonymously.
- Access to Information: To find sensitive or restricted information.
- Activism: To circumvent censorship in oppressive regimes.
Should You Use A VPN And Tor?
How to Access the Darknet
Accessing the darknet is not as simple as browsing the regular internet. It involves several steps and responsibilities. Follow these guidelines carefully:
1. Install the Tor Browser
The most common way to access the darknet is through the Tor Browser.
- Download the Tor Browser from the official website.
- Follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
- Launch the Tor Browser to begin.
2. Use a VPN for Additional Privacy
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can further enhance your security and anonymity.
- Select a trustworthy VPN provider.
- Install and connect to the VPN.
- Then, open the Tor Browser for an extra layer of protection.
3. Navigate the Darknet
Once the Tor Browser is open, you can begin exploring the darknet.
- Know that sites often end with .onion, which are exclusive to the Tor network.
- Use directories like Ahmia or Dark Web Links to find hidden services.
4. Keep Your Security Tight
While surfing the darknet, prioritize your safety and anonymity:
- Never share personal information.
- Be cautious about clicking unknown links or downloading files.
- Regularly update your security software.
Risks of Accessing the Darknet
Accessing the darknet comes with several risks:
- Illegal Activity: Some sites engage in illegal activities that can lead to legal repercussions.
- Scams: There are numerous scams and dangerous malware threats on darknet sites.
- Hostile Entities: You may encounter individuals or groups with malicious intentions.
FAQs About the Darknet
What is the difference between the deep web and the darknet?
The deep web refers to parts of the web that are not indexed by search engines, while the darknet is a small section of the deep web that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers.
Is it illegal to access the darknet?
Accessing the darknet itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the darknet can lead to criminal charges.
How can I stay safe while browsing the darknet?
To stay safe:
- Use the Tor Browser.
- Connect to a VPN.
- Practice good online hygiene and avoid sharing personal information.
Conclusion
Accessing the darknet can provide unique opportunities for anonymity and information access, but it carries significant risks. It’s essential to navigate with caution, prioritize security, and make informed decisions.
