At a minimum, users should ensure that their cybersecurity defenses are activated and up-to-date. My advice is to research before entering sites you find through search engines and protect your personal information with a highly secure VPN. In an attempt to stop criminal organizations operating on the dark web, authorities are setting up fake websites to track possible criminal activity. By doing this, they get access to whoever is visiting the sites — including you if you accidentally end up there. In some parts of the world, simply using a browser like Tor can get you flagged by these agencies, even if you don’t partake in illegal activity.
Also, it might seem impossible for a layman to approach the dark web directory. You will need a virtual private network (VPN), the Onion Browser like Tor, and a directory of dark web websites and links. Deep web, conversely, refers to non-indexable parts of the internet—content that’s only accessible through the use of passwords, encryption, or situationally with specific software. The deep web accounts for over 90% of information on the internet. Any good IT article on computers and network security will address the importance of strong, secure passwords. However, the challenge of good passwords is that most people have a hard time remembering them, so they use simple or obvious ones that pose a security risk.
Hackers and governments have ways of getting into your computer and turning on the video and cameras. The FEDS have programs that can match identities on random things such as matching time online and other things with the browser window size, I shit you not. Then open your VPN app and connect to another location other than where you are at, make sure to use the OpenVPN protocol as it is the most secure. Now close all of your browser windows and all apps connecting to the internet like Google Drive, Skype, OneDrive, iCloud, etc. If someone traced your IP address, they’d see it as the proxy server’s IP address instead of your home address.
- Remember to connect to a VPN server before launching the Tor browser for maximum security.
- However, if you use only Tor without a VPN, the risk of compromising your privacy is significantly bigger.
- NordVPN even has Threat Protection, a bundle of features containing antivirus, anti-malware, and an ad blocker.
- The deep web in and of itself isn’t a hotspot of illegal activity.
Understanding the Deep Web
The dark web refers to sites that are not indexed and only accessible via specialized web browsers. Significantly smaller than the tiny surface web, the dark web is considered a part of the deep web. Using our ocean and iceberg visual, the dark web would be the bottom tip of the submerged iceberg. At the dark end of the web, you’ll find the more hazardous content and activity. Tor websites are located at this far end of the deep web, which are deemed the “dark web” and are only accessible by an anonymous browser. Beyond privacy risks, another main worry with the dark web is how it undermines egalitarian hopes of the early Internet.
Clarke released Freenet, an early peer-to-peer network that facilitated anonymous communication via a decentralized network of Freenet’s users. Now that you know how to access the dark web, you should also consider the risks you may encounter once you’re there. We understand you’re excited to access the dark web now that you’ve found out how to enter the dark web. However, we urge you to study the infographic on dark web risks below.
The deep web, invisible web, or hidden web are parts of the World Wide Web whose contents are not indexed by standard search engines for any reason. This is a deep web search engine that allows you to search for websites, but also files, maps, music, news, science, social media posts, videos etc. Most search engines do not work on the dark web, because they are not designed to search for “.onion” URLs. The good news, however, is that you can use the dark web version of DuckDuckGo to search for and navigate to websites on the dark web. Like the normal web, you’re going to need some help finding what you’re looking for. The deep web has its own special search engines, so while Yahoo is mostly useless, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The deep web refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing.
This hidden layer encompasses a variety of content, from private databases to subscription-based websites.
In contrast, the dark web is a subset of the deep web that can be accessed only through specific software, often associated with illicit activities.
Naturally, this makes the dark web a breeding ground for illegal activity. But onion sites can also serve nobler goals, like providing access to information and independent journalism in countries with government censorship. Onion sites are used for a variety of purposes, but the common thread is privacy and anonymity, both for users and service providers. It is nearly impossible to trace the activity on onion sites, including the identities of people who use them. It’s a hidden collective of sites that you could only access through a special browser. Since all activity on the dark web is anonymous by default, it is definitely where the murkiest transactions on the internet take place.
How to Get in the Deep Web
Is The Dark Web Safe?
If you are interested in exploring the deep web, there are several steps you should follow to ensure a safe and secure experience.
1. Equip Yourself with the Right Tools
To access the deep web, you will need specific software:
- Tor Browser: This is the most popular way to access the deep web. It anonymizes your browsing by routing your connection through multiple servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security and privacy by encrypting your internet traffic.
2. Installation and Configuration
Once you have the necessary tools, follow these steps:
Download and Install:
- Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser.
- Install the browser on your device, following the instructions provided.
Set Up Your VPN:
- Choose a reputable VPN service and sign up for an account.
- Download and install the VPN application on your device.
- Connect to the VPN before launching the Tor Browser.
3. Navigating the Deep Web
After setting up the necessary tools, you can start exploring:
- Use .onion Sites: The deep web primarily consists of .onion websites, which are only accessible through the Tor Browser.
- Be Cautious: Many deep web sites contain illegal content. Avoid engaging in any illegal activities.
4. Stay Safe While Exploring
Your safety should be your top priority when accessing the deep web:
- Never share personal information: Keep your identity hidden at all costs.
- Stay anonymous: Avoid using your real email or usernames.
- Be aware of scams: The deep web is rife with scams and malicious actors.
FAQs about the Deep Web
What is the difference between the deep web and dark web?
The deep web includes all content that is not indexed by traditional search engines, while the dark web is a small part of the deep web that requires special software to access.
Is accessing the deep web illegal?
Accessing the deep web is not illegal; however, many activities and sites within the dark web may be illegal.
How can I protect my identity on the deep web?
You can protect your identity by using a VPN, Tor Browser, and avoiding the sharing of any personal information.
Can I browse the deep web safely?
While it is possible to browse the deep web safely, it requires caution and the use of security measures like VPNs and Tor.
