How To Access The Dark Web Safely And Securely
The dark web was created not long after the first message was sent in 1969 over the original internet, ARPANET. Covert networks — or darknets — emerged quickly to provide users with private networks to communicate on. While it’s not illegal in many places to simply get on the dark web, the dark web is used for some illegal purposes. Many things for sale on dark web marketplaces are illegal, like ransomware or other strains of malware, illicit drugs, weapons, and in some cases, even human organs. The surface web makes up only about 10% of the entire internet, and includes anything you can find by entering terms into a search engine like Google.
Introduction
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. Accessing it requires specific tools and knowledge. If you’re curious about how to get on dark web, this guide will outline the fundamental steps and necessary precautions.
The network functions differently than the World Wide Web you are used to, and has its own protocols that a browser must use to gain access. The Tor browser is free and legal to use in most parts of the world. However, some countries like China, Russia, and Belarus have banned it. Our guide on how to get on the dark web safely provides users with effective and simple steps to explore the dark net without compromising their security. If you don’t venture far, you’ll find everyday sites like forums, chat rooms, or torrent dark web websites. To many people, the dark web is just like the surface web — a place where they watch funny videos, chat with like-minded people and read the news.
Only about 6.7% of global users use the dark web for malicious purposes, but it’s smart to be selective about the websites you access. After downloading and installing I2P, you’ll need to manually configure it through the router, individual applications, or browser proxy settings. ExpressVPN uses TrustedServer technology across its network, meaning all servers are RAM-based and wiped at regular reboots.
It will impact your device’s performance and your VPN and other Tor apps may not function properly with Lockdown Mode enabled. 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. Continue reading to learn how to access the dark web on phone without compromising your privacy and security.
As mentioned above, Tor offers multiple layers of encryption as you browse the dark web. This adds one more layer of security and anonymity between yourself and bad actors on the internet. Identity theft monitoring is critical if you want to keep your private information from being misused.
For me, the Dark Web is a resource that is very important during investigations. It is part of any OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) investigation and live would be really hard without it for many digital forensics and OSINT investigators. Businesses should prepare an incident response plan for a cyber incident involving the dark web. This predetermined plan for addressing cyberthreats reduces vulnerabilities and strengthens recovery from potential cyberattacks. Now that you’re connected to the Dark web, you need someplace to go. Combining a VPN with Tor gives your messages an additional layer of encryption along with the increased privacy of hiding your actual IP address.
Understanding the Dark Web
Even if you use the Tor browser, anyone with enough time, resources, and knowledge can track your traffic. In fact, the Tor browser was found to have a vulnerability in 2017 that in some cases leaked actual IP addresses. However, if these users had taken the precaution of also having a VPN running in the background, their real IP addresses would not have been compromised. Attacks typically target users of banking, cryptocurrency, e-commerce sites, and even email. Web injects often take the form of adversary in the browser (AitB) attacks where an unsuspecting user installs a trojan horse on their smartphone.
Before diving into the steps, it’s vital to understand what the dark web is. It consists of various platforms that offer various services, often for anonymity. While it can be a place to find privacy-focused communities, it also harbors illegal activities.
What You Need to Know
- The dark web uses special software to keep users anonymous.
- Vulnerabilities exist; hence, taking precautions is critical.
- Legal implications vary by region and activity.
Steps on How to Get on Dark Web
1. Download a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for protecting your identity and encrypting your data. Look for a reputable provider that values privacy.
2. Download Tor Browser
To access the dark web, you’ll need to download the Tor Browser, which can be obtained from the official Tor Project website. This browser anonymizes your web traffic.
3. Use Security Features
Configure the security settings in the Tor Browser. Some recommended settings include:
- Setting the security level to “Safest.”
- Disabling JavaScript to prevent exploits.
- Using HTTPS whenever possible.
4. Access Dark Web Sites
Dark web sites often use the .onion domain extension. You can find directories and forums that list these sites, such as:
- Hidden Wiki
- Dark Web Link Directory
- Onion City
Safety Precautions
1. Stay Anonymous
Never share personal information. Use pseudonyms and create secure profiles.
2. Avoid Downloads
Be wary of downloading files; they may contain malware.
3. Be Aware of Scams
- Once you’ve connected, we also explain how to navigate the dark web safely later on in this guide.
- The dark web has many legitimate use purposes and contains legitimate content, including dark web mirrors of popular websites and services such as BBC News and Facebook.
- While technically not an onion site, we’re including Sci-Hub (sci-hub.se) as an interesting example of a site you can access via Tor.
- Sites on the surface web are also indexable and can be easily found using search engines.
- These products include everything from stolen credit card data to hacked Facebook accounts, and email database dumps.
The dark web is rife with scams. Always verify the credibility of forums and services before engaging.
Common FAQs
What is the difference between the deep web and dark web?
The deep web consists of any content not indexed by traditional search engines, while the dark web is a smaller portion of the deep web that requires specific software to access.
Is accessing the dark web legal?
Accessing the dark web isn’t inherently illegal; however, many activities that take place there may violate local laws.
Can my ISP track my activity on the dark web?
While a VPN helps anonymize your traffic, it’s not foolproof. Using Tor significantly reduces the ability of your ISP to track your activity.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get on dark web requires awareness of tools and risks involved. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed about the legal implications, you can navigate the dark web more safely.
