Content
Furthermore, there are news portals and marketplaces where you can buy drugs, guns, stolen/forged passports, PayPal accounts, hardware, software, and many other stuff. The websites on this part of the internet range from benign to very malicious. Whenever you’re interacting with people, chances are that some of them are skilled hackers looking to steal your personal information. In fact, many of them spend their time on this part of the internet, so it’s vital to protect yourself with a VPN.
Understanding the Dark Web
A part of the Internet that isn’t accessible through search engines at all, and also much more. On the Darknet no one knows your identity and no one knows who is behind any website. The deep web is presumably 100 times larger than what is known as the “surface web” which is what you and I surf through search engines like Google, Yahoo! and Bing. Most of the deep web isn’t evil in any way, it’s just content blocked from search engines for security reasons. That said, it’s worth noting that the Tor browser is not the same as a VPN. It connects you to a network of servers rather than a particular server.
And because there’s very little use of HTTPS on the dark net, verifying whether or not a website is genuine using an SSL certificate is not feasible. The dark web and Tor are often used by journalists and whistleblowers, including Edward Snowden himself, to exchange sensitive information. The Ashley Madison data dump, for instance, was posted to a site only accessible to Tor users. There are other ways for spies, hackers or other adversaries to target Tor. Lewis points to the “first contact problem”, when an attacker spots when someone moves from non-private tools to private ones, noting it’s been used to identify whistleblowers. When you use the Tor network, your traffic is layered in encryption and routed via a random relay, where it’s wrapped in another layer of encryption.
Other sites require additional security measures and only allow specific users to enter. Remember, this is a whole different universe that you know nothing about, and the whole experience is kind of like traveling back in time. Since sometimes websites are hosted on personal computers, it’s totally possible that you won’t be able to access a site since the computer is just shut down. Proton VPN is part of the Proton family of services provided by Proton Technologies AG. While ProtonMail has a solid commitment to privacy, its location has caused problems for users in the past. In 2021, it was forced by the Swiss courts to begin logging the IP addresses and browser fingerprint information of one of its customers.
However, note that by accessing the Dark Web you may attract attention from law enforcement agencies who monitor Dark Web activity. FBI, Europol, Interpol, and many other national police agencies regularly police the Dark Web. With the right tools, and a stomach made of steel, anyone can access and browse the internet’s underbelly.
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. This section of the internet is often associated with illegal activities, but not all content is illicit. It’s essential to approach the dark web with caution and awareness of its complexities.
The deep web is simply the part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines, such as email inboxes, banking portals, or any site that requires authentication or a password. In some ways, the dark web offers more browsing freedom, but the lack of safeguards can leave you exposed to hackers, malware, and other online threats. Before you access deep web sites, you need to be aware of the dangers that can lurk on the dark web, such as viruses or other malware. The BBC and other well-known news services are blocked in some parts of the world. But people can still access independent media via BBC Tor Mirror and similar dark web news portals. The BBC Tor Mirror is an international version of the BBC that focuses on world affairs, and it’s extremely useful for those who live under strict censorship laws.
How to Go on the Dark Web
Inappropriate Content
Accessing the dark web involves several steps to ensure privacy and security. Follow these guidelines to navigate safely:
- Download and Install Tor Browser:
Tor (The Onion Router) is the most common way to access the dark web. It anonymizes your connection by routing your data through various servers.
- Connection Settings:
Open Tor and connect to the internet. Make sure to choose the “Connect” option, allowing Tor to establish a secure connection.
- Enhance Your Security:
- Consider using a **VPN** for an extra layer of anonymity.
- Disable JavaScript in the settings to minimize vulnerabilities.
- Use secure passwords and avoid sharing personal information.
- Explore Dark Web Sites:
Access websites that use the .onion domain, which is exclusive to the dark web. You can find directories or forums to locate active sites.
Safety Precautions
When navigating the dark web, keeping safe should be your priority. Here are some important precautions:
- Avoid Downloading Files: Files can contain malware or viruses that could compromise your device.
- Stay Anonymous: Do not use your real name, email, or any identifiable information.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If transactions are necessary, use cryptocurrencies for better privacy.
Common Misconceptions about the Dark Web
Many myths surround the dark web. Understanding these can enhance your awareness:
- Not All Content is Illegal: While illegal markets exist, many people use the dark web for privacy-focused discussions or to bypass censorship.
- It’s Not Fully Anonymous: While it enhances anonymity, it doesn’t guarantee complete protection from law enforcement.
- Accessing the Dark Web is Difficult: With the right tools like Tor, it is quite simple for many users to gain access.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web is not illegal; however, many activities that occur on it may be unlawful. Always be cautious about the sites you visit.
- TOR stands for “The Onion Router”, it got its name from the fact that in order to reveal the core user of the browser you’ll have to peel a lot of layers off, just like an onion.
- When we said above “the remainder of the internet” is the deep web, it gives you the idea that there are only two parts of the internet, the surface, and the deep web.
- The Tor Browser, which is now widely used to browse the hidden web, was first developed in 2008.
- The other, more infamous use for Tor is as a gateway into the deep web, the massive portion of the web that is not indexed by search engines.
- All the websites you visit that don’t require login credentials are part of the surface web.
Do I need special software to access the dark web?
Yes, the Tor Browser is necessary, along with potential VPNs, to browse safely.
Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While Tor enhances anonymity, there are still risks of being tracked, especially if personal info is shared.
What kind of content can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, blogs, and even news sites that prioritize privacy. However, illegal markets and harmful content are also prevalent.
Conclusion
Learning how to go on the dark web requires careful planning and an understanding of associated risks. By following the steps outlined and remaining vigilant, users can navigate this hidden part of the internet more safely and benefit from its unique offerings. Always prioritize anonymity and security to protect your personal information.
