The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses, such as providing a platform for free speech and privacy. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to access the dark web safely and securely.
The dark web can be a valuable resource for journalists, researchers, and other users seeking anonymity or access to restricted information. It is important to understand the potential risks and take appropriate security measures to protect yourself and your personal information. This is the reason we must use a VPN to hide our identity while accessing the dark web.
How To Access The Deep Web Safely
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and are only accessible through specialized software. These websites are often used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, there are also many legitimate websites on the dark web, such as forums for free speech and privacy advocates.
Can the FBI track you through Tor?
FBI Can Track and Locate Suspects Using TOR.
How to Access the Dark Web
What Is The Dark Web And How To Legally Access It?
To access the dark web, you will need to use a specialized browser called the Tor browser. The Tor browser routes your internet connection through a series of volunteer-operated servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity. Here are the steps to access the dark web:
- Download and install the Tor browser from the official website.
- Open the Tor browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- Type the URL of the dark web website you want to visit in the address bar.
- Browse the website as you would any other website.
To prove its commitment to privacy, PIA has implemented RAM-only servers, regular third-party audits, AES-256 encryption, and effective VPN kill switches in its apps. Furthermore, the VPN service accepts gift card and Bitcoin payments for full anonymity. You only need to use a VPN if you’re accessing the dark web without Tails, or if you’re on an Android device. To access the dark web using a VPN, we recommend using the Onion over VPN method, which involves connecting to a VPN server before connecting to the Tor Browser.
Is it Safe to Access the Dark Web?
Step 2: Precautions For Using Android Devices For The Dark Web
Accessing the dark web can be risky, as there are many scams and illegal activities taking place. However, if you take the necessary precautions, you can minimize the risks. Here are some tips to stay safe on the dark web:
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address.
- Only visit websites that have a good reputation and are known to be safe.
- Do not download any files or click on any links unless you are sure they are safe.
- Do not share any personal information or conduct any illegal activities.
Websites hosted on the Tor network end in .onion (to indicate the network’s multiple layers of encryption). With almost all types of malware, users can be left with a device that’s been forever corrupted. That’s why it’s important to take extra precautions when browsing the dark web.
Some popular examples of Dark Web sites include The Silk Road (a marketplace for illegal drugs), The Pirate Bay (a site for pirated content), and Hidden Wiki (a directory of onion sites). As you can get it by now, the Deep Web contains any content that is protected by a password or any other type of authentication, and which isn’t and mustn’t be indexed by standard search engines. With one simple word, it consists of content that can be misused and cause problems to companies.
We also publish VPN research and advice to help protect your internet privacy and security. Accessing the dark web on Tor makes it much more difficult for police to track your online activity. In the last few years, international crime agencies have successfully worked together to shut down dark web marketplaces and arrest criminals.
FAQs
Are The Dark Web And The Deep Web Illegal?
What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web refers to all the websites that are not indexed by search engines, while the dark web is a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden and requires specialized software to access. The deep web includes websites that require a login, such as online banking and email accounts, while the dark web is often associated with illegal activities.
What is the darkest search engine?
- Torch. A portmanteau of Tor + search, the Torch search engine is the oldest search engine on the Tor network.
- DuckDuckGo. The DuckDuckGo dark web search engine is like Google for the dark web.
- The Hidden Wiki.
- Ahmia.
- Haystak.
- Not Evil.
- Candle.
- Dark Search.
Can I get in trouble for accessing the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is not illegal in itself, but conducting illegal activities on the dark web is against the law. If you are found to be engaging in illegal activities, you could face criminal charges.
Can I use my regular web browser to access the dark web?
No, you cannot use your regular web browser to access the dark web. You will need to use the Tor browser or another specialized browser that can route your internet connection through the Tor network.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
How much of the Internet is the dark web?
The dark web is a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden, requiring a specific browser—Tor—to access, as explained below. No one really knows the size of the dark web, but most estimates put it at around 5% of the total internet.
It is difficult to track someone on the dark web, but it is not impossible. If you use a VPN and take other precautions, you can minimize the risk of being tracked.
What should I do if I suspect I have been hacked on the dark web?
Despite there being no official iOS app built by Tor Project, they have endorsed Onion Browser—an open source Tor browser. This service has servers in nearly 100 countries and offers great speeds, making it one of the top choices for going on the dark web. Aside from that, it has a no-logging policy audited by Deloitte, 256-bit encryption, an ad blocker, and even IP/DNS leak protection. Thus, through the dark web, you can buy illegal substances, order a hitman, watch underage pornography, and engage in all sorts of illicit activities. Needless to say, we don’t recommend indulging in this nasty side of the darknet. Furthermore, there are news portals and marketplaces where you can buy drugs, guns, stolen/forged passports, PayPal accounts, hardware, software, and many other stuff.
- Anonymous activity and privacy is the key to keeping their fight alive.
- As such, dark web domains can be useful for those living in countries where free speech is limited or banned, plus for those wanting to share information without being prosecuted.
- For example, they may hold money in escrow but then shut down the e-commerce website and take off with the money.
- Dark web search engines don’t quite resemble the search engines you’re used to seeing, like Google.
If you suspect you have been hacked on the dark web, you should contact a cybersecurity expert immediately. They can help you identify the breach and take steps to protect your personal information.
How do I know if I am on the dark web?
How Do You Know if Your Information Is on the Dark Web? If your data is available on the dark web, one of the easiest ways to find out is to check the “Have I Been Pwned” (HIBP) website. It's a free service, and all you have to do is conduct a search using your email address or phone number.
