Is It Illegal To Go On The Dark Web?
The Dark Web is more commonly used by sex offenders to openly discuss ‘tactics’ to exploit young people and share material generated as a result of their offending. It is also harder for law enforcement to investigate online abuse that takes place in the anonymous parts of the internet. When most people go online, they do so via a computer or device that has an IP (Internet Protocol) address – a unique online identity. Browser fingerprinting and online tracking are virtually impossible when you’re connected to the dark web via Tor Browser. That means your browsing behavior and traffic patterns can’t be collected and used by third-party advertisers.
A lot can be found in the shadows of the internet from sensitive stolen data to attack tools for sale, the dark web is a trove of risks for enterprises. On your Android or iOS device, download and install a browser app capable of accessing the Tor network on mobile. For Android we recommend Tor Browser, as it is built by The Tor Project. Despite there being no official iOS app built by Tor Project, they have endorsed Onion Browser—an open source Tor browser. With that out of the way, let’s get onto accessing the dark web—specifically Tor (which stands for The Onion Router), the largest darknet. Darknet refers to a restricted overlay network that is only accessible with specific software or authorization.
You would, of course, assume that using a VPN to access the dark web would be a no-brainer, but it’s not quite as simple as that. You might automatically ask yourself “do I need a VPN for the dark web,” but to understand why the answer might be no, you have to understand how a VPN works. There are a few main competitors, each of which offers distinct advantages and drawbacks over the more popular browser. Downloading the Tor Browser is no more complicated than downloading Google Chrome. The basic code of the browser is actually based on Mozilla’s Firefox browser, so anyone who has spent time with that classic browser will be well at home here.
This is a free to read article written for sharing knowledge to stay safe on the internet. However, the dark web is not as simple to search as the clear web really, and this is where onion link sites come in, which brings us to the second option I want to mention here. Also, you can use the TOR browser for clear web websites to increase your privacy protection.
It’s hard to estimate just how big the deep web is, but the commonly cited research (albeit from 2001) puts the deep web at 400 to 550 times the size of the “surface web.” Europol says the dark web and other peer-to-peer networks are still the “main platform” for sharing child abuse material. Buying drugs, guns or the hacked personal details of millions of unsuspecting people — welcome to the dark web, where everything is off the grid.
Introduction
Bitcoin also contributed to the emergence in 2011 of the Silk Road, a black market for buying and selling illegal drugs. Freezing your credit reports with all three major credit bureaus―Experian, TransUnion and Equifax―can help keep someone else from opening an account in your name. Once your reports are frozen, creditors can’t access your credit report to make new lending decisions. However, your report can still be accessed for other reasons, such as if your current creditor wants to review your report or if you want to check your credit. Adding MFA can help keep others out of your account even if your username and password are leaked on the dark web.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access, and it is often associated with illegal activities. However, many legitimate uses exist as well. This article will explain how to get on the dark web safely and responsibly.
However, they are mostly connected to the Internet since much of that information forms an ecosystem for surface web applications. Some people would argue for privacy and anonymity based on the First Amendment. That is one reason why law-abiding people value the privacy of Tor and other dark web browsers.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a small portion of the deep web, which includes all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines like Google. Here are some facts about the dark web:
- The dark web requires special tools for access.
- It is home to various forums, marketplaces, and communities.
- While many users engage in illegal activities, some use it for privacy and freedom of speech.
There are some steps you can take to help protect yourself and stay ahead of identity thieves. News and informational websites (including this blog), e-commerce sites, video-hosting platforms and many other types of websites are all part of the surface web. And while you may spend a lot of time on the surface web, it only makes up about 4% of the internet. Regardless of the device you use, whether it’s a computer, an Android device, or an iPhone, safety should always be your top priority. Utilize tools like Tor, Orbot, Onion Browser, and VPNs to maintain anonymity.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get on the Dark Web
Follow these steps to access the dark web safely:
- Accessing the link alone can become a legal problem depending on the country you reside.
- The deep web is about 90% of the internet, while the dark web makes up about 5%.
- Most people get confused between the Deep Web and the Darknet (or Dark Web).
- Take a look at our overview of the most trustworthy, fast, and safe VPN services.
- However, due to copyright infringement, Sci-Hub is considered illegal and banned in many countries.
- Just like Mariana Trench in the south Pacific Ocean is the deepest place on earth, the Dark Web is the deepest point of the internet.
1. Download a Secure Browser
The first step is to obtain a browser designed for dark web access.
- The most popular option is the Tor Browser.
- You can download it from the official Tor Project website.
2. Install the Browser
After downloading the browser, install it on your computer.
- Follow the installation prompt based on your operating system.
- Ensure that you are getting the browser from the official source to avoid malware.
3. Set Up Security Features
Before accessing the dark web, enhance your security settings.
- Adjust the security level of the Tor Browser.
- Consider using a VPN for an additional layer of anonymity.
- Disable scripts and plugins to protect against vulnerabilities.
4. Connect to the Tor Network
Once your browser is installed and secure, open it and connect to the Tor Network.
- Click on the “Connect” button.
- Wait while the browser establishes a connection; this may take a little time.
5. Use .onion Sites
To explore the dark web, you will need to know the specific addresses of .onion sites.
- Search for directories that list .onion sites.
- Be cautious and avoid suspicious links.
Safety Tips While Navigating the Dark Web
Here are some essential safety tips:
- Never share personal information.
- Be cautious with downloads; they may contain malware.
- Use fake usernames and emails to maintain anonymity.
- Engage in forums and communities with care.
FAQs
Q: Is it illegal to access the dark web?
A: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities on it is.
Q: Do I need to pay to access the dark web?
A: No, the tools required to access the dark web, such as the Tor Browser, are free.
Q: Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
A: While the dark web offers anonymity, it is not foolproof. Using a VPN can enhance privacy.
Q: What should I avoid on the dark web?
A: Avoid illegal marketplaces, unsolicited offers, and any sites that compromise your security.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web comes with its risks, but by following the steps outlined above, you can navigate it safely. Being informed and cautious is crucial to ensure a secure experience.
