Secure Drop
In 2008, the Tor Project launched the official Tor Browser, which is now the most popular way to access the dark web. Depending on where you are, accessing the dark web might be illegal. But unless you engage in illegal activity on the dark web, you shouldn’t have to worry — at least in the US. Connecting to the dark web might draw unwelcome attention to your online activity, though, either from your ISP or your government. The deep web includes all internet content protected by passwords, authentication forms, and firewalls — like subscription services, banking information, and email accounts. Most of the web is actually the deep web, and whenever we enter login credentials and passwords to view web content, we’re accessing a part of the deep web.
But you can face criminal charges if you use the dark web to sell or purchase illegal firearms, drugs, pornography, stolen passwords, hacked credit card account numbers, or other items. The dark web may be safe in some cases—think legitimate content—and not in others. 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.
Understanding the Black Web
Therefore, they provide onion.ly links so victims can access dark websites with regular browsers. Please refer to our article on LockBit 3.0 ransomware case study, where we determine how ransomware is distributed and what must be done to prevent it. The onion.ly domain is a proxy server domain address provided by Tor2Web. Tor2Web is a service that allows users access to Onion services from a regular browser. Tails always starts with a clean slate and any evidence of the activities you engage in while using Tails disappears when you shut down Tails. This includes evidence of any websites you visit, files you open, passwords you use, and even any other devices or networks you connect to.
It allows for the publication of websites and the dissemination of information without revealing the publisher’s identity or location. Many users use Tor and similar services as a means to provide freedom of expression and association, access to information, and the right to privacy. The U.S. shut down this infamous online black market and prominent member of the dark web in 2013. Search engines don’t index any of the websites on the dark web, which means you can’t get there by using Google or Yahoo or your search engine of choice. The dark web is known as a place where illegal goods and services can be bought and sold, and for that reason, it’s earned a reputation for being a little seedy and salacious.
You can also take a look at the blogs & essays section if you want to find some nifty coding resources. When using this method, Tor will encrypt your request, which will pass through your ISP unhindered. From there, it will go through a VPN server that conceals your IP and wipes geo-locations tags and other elements your Government or ISP might use to track the request. 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.
They also limit bandwidth and speeds and bombard you with annoying ads and popups. Using a free service is simply not worth the risk when you can get a high-quality VPN backed by a risk-free, money-back guarantee. A VPN also helps protect your privacy by preventing your ISP from monitoring your connection. I recommend choosing a premium VPN with a verified no-logs policy that’s based in a privacy-friendly country and offers high-level encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Remember to connect to a VPN server before launching the Tor browser for maximum security. You can’t just start surfing the dark web by typing something into Google.
A VPN also changes your IP address before you connect to the Tor Network, making it even more difficult for anyone to figure out your real IP address. This means you can use ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, Lightway, for the best possible speeds when using Tor to browse the dark web. ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN to use when browsing the dark web. Even if you forget to click on the Onion Over VPN heading when looking for a NordVPN server, its regular server list makes finding them easy.
The term black web typically refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines. The most recognized segment of this is the dark web, which requires specific software to access.
What You Need to Know
Before delving into how to access the black web, it’s crucial to understand the implications and risks involved:
- Security Risks: The black web can expose you to malware and phishing attacks.
- Legal Implications: Accessing illegal content can lead to severe legal consequences.
- Privacy Concerns: Your personal data may be at risk without proper safeguards.
- The week began with a report of 132k records compromised from an Indiana healthcare system.
- Aside from his work at Cloudwards, his expertise has been acknowledged in reputable publications like The Daily Beast.
- There are several email and IM services which you can use, and it’s highly recommended to pick one if you want to step up your dark web game.
How to Access the Black Web
If you are aware of the risks and still wish to explore the black web, follow these essential steps:
- Download Tor Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor network. Download the Tor Browser from its official website.
- Install the Tor Browser: Follow the installation instructions specific to your operating system, ensuring that you install it safely.
- Configure Security Settings: Before browsing, adjust the Tor security settings to the highest level to enhance your privacy.
- Use VPN: A Virtual Private Network is advisable for an additional layer of security and anonymity.
- Access .onion Sites: Once connected to the Tor network, you can start visiting specific websites that end in .onion.
Best Practices for Browsing the Black Web
To ensure a safer experience while navigating the black web, consider these best practices:
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing any personal information and use pseudonyms.
- Avoid Downloading Files: Downloads can contain harmful malware. Only download from trustworthy sources if necessary.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If you engage in transactions, use cryptocurrencies to maintain your anonymity.
- Be Cautious: Many sites on the dark web are scams. Verify the authenticity of any platform you plan to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web consists of all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines, including databases and private information. In contrast, the dark web is a tiny segment of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers.
Is accessing the black web illegal?
Accessing the black web itself is not illegal; however, many activities and content available there are. It is crucial to refrain from engaging in illegal activities.
Can I be tracked while using the black web?
While using tools like Tor and VPNs can enhance your anonymity, it is still possible to be tracked through various means. Always stay cautious and keep your security measures up-to-date.
What kind of content can I find on the black web?
The dark web hosts various content, some of which may include illegal services, forums, and marketplaces. However, it also contains resources like privacy-focused services and whistleblower platforms.
Concluding Thoughts
Exploring the black web is not for everyone, and it comes with significant risks. Make sure you are fully informed and prepared before venturing into this hidden part of the internet.
