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. So, how do people get on the dark web? Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Its inherent anonymity allows everyone from dissidents to whistle-blowers the opportunity to share information free from persecution. In many cases, this information can itself be used to prevent illegal activities. Yes, there are ways to access the dark web on mobile, but generally, it’s not as safe as getting on the dark web with a PC. Because Android is designed to be an open system, it can be more vulnerable to the dangers of the dark web. And, you have less space and capabilities to install protective measures. Threats are scattered all over the dark web, but there’s plenty you can do to protect yourself.
Deep Web Access Via Academic Databases And Archives
Use a Dark Web Browser
How do I remove my phone number from the Web?
- Search for it.
- Get it removed from search engines.
- Contact websites.
- Remove it from social media platforms.
- Delete it from your email and website.
- Revoke app permissions.
To access the dark web, you need to use a specialized browser such as Tor (The Onion Router). Tor is a free software that enables anonymous communication by directing internet traffic through a free, worldwide volunteer network consisting of more than seven thousand relays.
Leave No Trace: Encryption And Evasion For The Dark Web
Download and Install Tor
You can download Tor from its official website. Once downloaded, install it on your computer just like any other software. After installation, Tor will launch, and you can start browsing the dark web.
Create Strong, Unique Passwords For Each Of Your Online Accounts
Find Dark Web Sites
The Dark Web hosts an enormous number of websites catering to all types of deviant persons accessing child pornography and similar behavior. Experts believe tens of thousands access these sites on a regular basis. Connecting to the dark web requires a few more things than just a computer and internet access.
Unlike the surface web, the dark web doesn’t have a search engine like Google. Therefore, finding dark web sites (also known as “hidden services”) can be challenging. However, there are a few ways to do it:
- Use directories: There are directories that list dark web sites, such as the Hidden Wiki. These directories can be accessed through Tor.
- Follow links: Once you’re on the dark web, you can follow links from one site to another. However, be cautious as not all sites are safe.
- Use dark web search engines: There are a few search engines that index dark web sites, such as Ahmia.fi.
Can someone steal your identity with your email address?
It's become second nature to share our email addresses with people or businesses. But if your email address ends up in the wrong hands, you could easily become a victim of identity theft, account takeovers, or financial fraud.
In a nutshell, the deep web is a high-security world, almost like a vault filled with precious data. Your Gmail inbox as well as your Google Drive, for instance, is part of the deep web because it doesn’t exist as a publicly accessible domain. Other examples include your bank account page and the settings page of your social media account, the admin page of your blog, and some academic journals. These websites exist in directories that Google (and other search engines) are barred from crawling. Even the best identity theft protection can’t prevent every data leak. A monitoring service will notify you if your social security number, credit card number or other sensitive information has appeared on the dark web.
Protect Your Privacy
When browsing the dark web, it’s essential to protect your privacy. Here are some tips:
- Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) can help hide your IP address and encrypt your internet connection.
- Don’t use personal information: Avoid using personal information when creating accounts or making transactions on the dark web.
- Use secure communication channels: Use encrypted messaging apps such as Signal or WhatsApp to communicate with others on the dark web.
FAQs
What is the dark web?
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.
- If you exercise due caution and use a combination of the Tor browser and common sense in which sites you access on the dark web, yes, the dark web is safe to use.
- Please note that going on the dark web or using the Tor network in these countries could land you in trouble.
- Being proactive means using industry standard (or better) cybersecurity practices to avoid being hacked, or to minimize the ability of bad guys to read data that is successfully stolen.
- The deep part of the deep web simply refers to the fact that you need passwords or other authentication to unlock it.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, it’s not illegal to access the dark web. However, some activities on the dark web are illegal, such as buying or selling illegal goods or services.
Can I get in trouble for accessing the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, if you engage in illegal activities on the dark web, you could face legal consequences.
Can I tell if my email has been hacked?
If your normal email password isn't working, there's a good chance you've been hacked. There are strange messages in your “Sent” folder. In other cases, a hacker wants to use your email without alerting you that you've been hacked. Look for strange emails in your sent folder that you didn't send.
Is the dark web dangerous?
The dark web can be dangerous if you’re not careful. There are many scams and fraudulent sites on the dark web, and some sites may contain malware or viruses. It’s essential to protect your privacy and use caution when browsing the dark web.
How did my email and password get on the dark web?
If your email or PII is for sale on the Dark Web, there's a good chance that scammers acquired it via a phishing email or malware infection. Antivirus and anti-malware software will discover and isolate the potential malware or spyware so that your future accounts aren't compromised.
