The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to access the dark web safely and securely.
Configure Your Dark Web Browser’s Security Settings
The sites on the Dark Web are not indexed by search engines and are often used for illegal activities such as illegal trade, drug dealing, and hacking. However, it’s important to note that not all sites on the Dark Web are illegal- some are just privately owned sites that prefer not to be indexed. In principle, the dark web is just a version of the internet that you can only access using a Tor browser and where it’s almost impossible to identify the users and owners of the websites on there. However, because it’s almost completely anonymous, there are a lot of illegal images, information, products, and services on the dark web. Attempting to even view these can be illegal in many countries and states, so stay well clear of them if you want to keep a clean record and conscience. The dark web is also not indexed by search engines, but it is different in that it can only be accessed using specialised and highly secure browsers, such as Tor.
- PIA has servers in 91 countries that all support Tor traffic, so it’s very easy to find nearby VPN servers for good speeds.
- It’s also important to note that smartphones, in general, aren’t the most privacy-friendly devices (think GPS tracking) and have plenty of vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
- Identity theft monitoring is critical if you want to keep your private information from being misused.
- That’s why it’s so enticing for criminals to post your private information there.
What is the Dark Web?
Can I Find My Data On The Dark Web?
The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and are only accessible through special software. These websites are often used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, there are also many legitimate uses for the dark web, such as whistleblowing, activism, and secure communication.
However, cybersecurity organizations could benefit from indirect participation in discussions regarding hacking and exploit trading that regularly takes place on the dark web. This would give them insights into yet-unknown vulnerabilities and allow them to gain knowledge of exploits before they can turn into widespread cyber threats. On the internet, the deep web is not indexed by web crawlers, while the dark web is intentionally kept hidden.
What Is The Dark Web, And How Do You Access It?
You can’t just start surfing the dark web by typing something into Google. You’ll have to visit sites using their onion URLs or search with an onion search engine. On the darknet, there are many message boards and chat rooms where people talk about things that aren’t safe to talk about elsewhere on the internet. Sadly, the promise how to get into dark web of encrypted online activity creates opportunities for illicit behavior. People can discuss and share material connected with unlawful actions, selling drugs, weapons, etc. On the dark web, secure file uploads and transfers are commonplace since the onion network offers multiple levels of encryption for your files and connection.
There’s no broad consensus on dark web safety, but you at least need to use Tor and VPN together. Once you have those, there are several ways to tunnel through the dark web. Tor relays are servers run by volunteers, designed to keep your activities private and untraceable. Navigating the dark web requires extra layers of privacy, not just because of its content but due to legal scrutiny.
How to Access the Dark Web
So, once you’ve activated your VPN and your privacy is secured, it’s time to visit Tor’s official download page. Make sure that when you download the Tor file, it’s from their official website. The majority of the users on the dark web use the Tor (The Onion Router) browser. A vast number of URLs have domain endings such as “.onion”, which means that the URLs are only accessible by Tor users. You can also find email messages, online bank statements, and much more information on the deep web – information that is usually private and inaccessible by the public on the surface web. So, sites that contain a domain extension like .com, .org, .net, .biz, .info, etc. can be found on the surface web.
To access the dark web, you will need to use a special browser called the Tor browser. The Tor browser is a free, open-source software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing your internet connection through a series of servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
Here are the steps to access the dark web using the Tor browser:
Can I remove my email from dark web?
Note that a Dark Web scan does NOT automatically remove your compromised information from the Dark Web. It simply alerts you that the information is out there. There is no Dark Web manager to call to request its removal; it's up to you to take action from there.
- Download and install the Tor browser from the official website.
- Open the Tor browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- Once connected, you can use the Tor browser just like any other web browser. To access the dark web, you will need to use special URLs that end in .onion.
What to avoid on Tor?
- Avoid sharing your personal data. Once you enter your Facebook, Google, or any other account, you are not anonymous anymore.
- Turn on the safest mode.
- Visit only HTTPS websites.
- Don't click on suspicious links.
- Update your antivirus software.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN).
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web can be risky, as it is often used for illegal buy money on the dark web activities. Here are some tips to stay safe on the dark web:
- Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) can help hide your IP address and encrypt your internet connection. This can make it more difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
- Don’t share personal information: Avoid sharing any personal information, such as your name, address, or phone number. This can make you a target for hackers and other cybercriminals.
- Use strong passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for each website you visit. This can help prevent hackers from gaining access to your accounts.
- Beware of phishing scams: Be cautious of any emails or messages that ask for personal information or login credentials. These are often phishing scams designed to steal your information.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be a useful tool for activism, whistleblowing, and secure communication. However, it is important to take precautions to stay safe and secure. By using the Tor browser, a VPN, and strong passwords, you can minimize the risks associated with accessing the dark web. Remember to always be cautious and avoid sharing personal information.
Can I download Tor Browser?
There are two options to download Tor Browser. Tap on 'Send me Tor Browser' and choose your operating system. GetTor will respond with a downloadable Tor Browser file and the signature which can be used to verify the download. Tap on 'Send me other mirrors for Tor Browser' to download from one of the official mirrors.