How To Access The Dark Web Safely In 2024: An Easy Guide
One of the major advantages of using US credit cards is that no verification through mobile is done on the purchase, which easily allows cybercriminals to make purchases. In 2020, around 115 million debit and credit cards were stolen from the US. If you need a great Tor VPN, I recommend ExpressVPN — all its servers allow Tor traffic, it has excellent security and privacy features, and it provides fast browsing speeds. You also get strong security features, as the VPN has RAM-only servers, perfect forward secrecy, an audited no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection. But I think it’s a shame how it’s missing WebRTC and IPv6 leak protection (ExpressVPN has full leak protection) — still, I never experienced any leaks in my tests. Surfshark is also really user-friendly, as its apps are all intuitive and make it very simple to find and connect to servers.
The Tor browser differs from others such as Chrome or Firefox because it does not take the most direct route from your device to the web. Instead, Tor uses a random set of encrypted servers known as nodes to keep users and sites anonymous. The dark web is a part of the internet consisting of hidden sites that aren’t indexed by conventional search engines. Dark web search engines exist, but even the best are challenged to keep up with the constantly shifting landscape.
Understanding How to Access the Dark Web
The dark web is often misunderstood as a hidden realm filled with illegal activities and danger. However, it serves various legitimate purposes, including privacy protection, secure communication, and information sharing.
This information can be used to target ads and monitor your internet usage. Second, shutting down or controlling access to the dark web would be a huge undertaking and could have unintended consequences. Finally, many people see the dark web as a necessary tool for privacy and freedom of speech. In fact, there is an entire section of the dark web dedicated to pornographic content. However, it is important to note that not all of this content is legal.
I tested Image Hosting and was able to upload and share an image on Facebook in less than 10 seconds. 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. However, the dark web was soon utilized by other groups like drug dealers, weapon traders, and other malicious and illegal corporations, which changed why the dark web was designed. So, whenever you use the dark web, be aware of its potential risks. Stay aware of scams or other dangerous activities like phishing attempts or frauds.
If you want to be 100% sure you won’t install any malware on your PC while on the dark web, you can use a virtual machine (VM). In short, a virtual machine is an emulation of an actual PC using your existing computer or the cloud. So we do not recommend you do this if you just want to visit the dark web once or twice. If a hacker manages to get into your system via the dark web, all of this information is in danger. Comparatively, portable operating systems like Tails, Whonix, ZeusGuard, and Qubes OS prevent unwarranted data collection and surveillance, limiting the data at risk in case of a breach. Revealing personal information about yourself on the dark web can have serious ramifications by allowing hackers to identify and target you.
You might fall to the wayside of legal lines for many reasons that are important for the protection of freedom. Others may act in ways that are illegal for the protection and safety of others. Let’s unpack both of these concepts in terms of the “dark web browser” and the websites themselves. As such, the dark web has attracted many parties who would otherwise be endangered by revealing their identities online. Abuse and persecution victims, whistleblowers, and political dissidents have been frequent users of these hidden sites.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how to access the dark web safely.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software or configurations to access, providing anonymity to users.
Essential Requirements to Access the Dark Web
- Tor Browser: This is the most common way to access the dark web. It routes your internet connection through a series of servers, masking your IP address.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): For added security, a VPN can encrypt your internet traffic, offering an extra layer of anonymity when accessing the dark web.
- Security Software: Ensure you have reliable antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against potential threats.
- Know the Risks: Familiarize yourself with the dangers and legal implications of using the dark web.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
- Paul Syverson, David Goldschlag, and Michael Reed were the three mathematicians at the Naval Research Laboratory who began working on the concept of onion routing.
- However, there are some positive aspects to them – like everything online, problems do not come from the technology itself, but instead are caused by the ways in which people use it.
- 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.
- The dark web uses overlay networks (darknets), which require specific internet configurations and authorizations to access.
- A 2019 study by PreciseSecurity.com showed that approximately 30% of North Americans have used the dark web regularly, and the numbers have only grown since then.
- Download the Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website to download the browser safely.
- Install the Browser: Follow installation instructions and keep the browser updated.
- Run the Tor Browser: Open it like any other web browser.
- Connect to the Tor Network: Click “Connect” to join the network.
- Navigate to .onion Sites: Use specific URLs ending in .onion to access dark web sites.
Safety Tips for Browsing the Dark Web
While accessing the dark web can be intriguing, prioritizing safety is critical:
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Keep your identity confidential to protect yourself.
- Use Pseudonyms: Create unique usernames to enhance your anonymity.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Avoid downloading files or clicking on suspicious links.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about potential scams and risks associated with the dark web.
Common Misconceptions About the Dark Web
Several myths surround the dark web:
- All Dark Web Activities are Illegal: The dark web hosts legitimate content and communication.
- It is Only for Criminals: Many use it for privacy, activism, and sharing information in oppressive regimes.
- You Need Advanced Technical Skills: Basic knowledge of using a browser is usually sufficient to get started.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is legal; however, engaging in illegal activities while on it is not.
Will using a VPN or Tor protect my identity?
While both add layers of anonymity, skilled adversaries can potentially compromise this protection. Always prioritize safety measures.
What is a .onion website?
A .onion website is a special domain specifically designated for access via the Tor network, providing anonymity for both users and website owners.
Understanding how to access the dark web can open up a vast landscape of information, communication, and privacy. However, it requires caution, knowledge, and respect for the risks involved.
