Prior to Keeper, Darren served as an advisor to JiWire, now called NinthDecimal. NinthDecimal is the leading media and technology service provider for the WiFi industry. He was formerly the Chief Financial Officer and a principal shareholder of Apollo Solutions, Inc., which was acquired by CNET Networks. Most e-commerce providers offer some kind of escrow service that keeps customer funds on hold until the product has been delivered. However, in the event of a dispute don’t expect service with a smile. Every communication is encrypted, so even the simplest transaction requires a PGP key.
As you are now familiar with the three different sections within the entire world wide web, let’s take a closer look at how you can access the dark web anonymously. We’ve also previously mentioned the “dark users” that use the dark web for illegal reasons, but the less said about them, the better. Those who access the dark web do so via the Tor (The Onion Router) browser. Absolutely no one knows who’s surfing on the dark web, who is selling, who is buying or anything like that – as long as you take the correct safety and online privacy precautions. The majority of the web is called the “deep web” (often referred to as the “invisible” or “hidden” web). The deep web is basically all the content that you can’t find using Google or Yahoo search.
Understanding the Dark Web
If you use your bank’s website, the page that shows you your bank balance is part of the Deep Web. A doctor’s office with an online patient portal is using the Deep Web. This part of the internet is for anyone who wants the convenience of accessing their information online, while also enjoying the security of knowing only they can see it.
If you go looking for trouble on the dark web, chances are you’ll find it. If you stick to using it for legitimate and legal purposes and proceed with caution, you can have a perfectly safe and secure experience. This type of multi-layer encryption means each node, or server in the chain, knows which server your data came from and which server to send it to next. They contain text and images, clickable content, site navigation buttons and so on. Perhaps you’ve heard the infamous stories about Silk Road, the online marketplace used to sell illegal drugs with bitcoin behind the veil of the Tor browser. Launched in 2011, it is known to be one of the first online platforms of the dark web.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific configurations and tools to access, making it a separate entity from the surface web and the deep web. While it has a reputation for hosting illegal activities, it also provides a platform for privacy, anonymity, and free expression.
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Download AVG Secure VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your privacy wherever you go on the web. The Silk Road — one of the most famous dark web marketplaces — was known for these types of illegal items. Even though the website was shut down in 2013, the Silk Road’s founder, Ross Ulbricht, will spend the rest of his life in prison. The story of the Silk Road has been adapted into films, podcasts, and a book. Cybercriminals lurk in the dark web to methodically coordinate their attacks, sell illicit goods, distribute malware and phishing kits, and share other prebuilt exploits.
Why Browse the Dark Web?
- Later on, the underlying Tor code was released into the wild under a free license, leading to the formation of the Tor Project.
- You can’t just type “silk road” into Google and expect to see a dark website.
- 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 is generally not recommended to visit the dark web without a VPN, as doing so can expose your device and your personal information to a number of risks.
While Tor is a powerful tool for defending your privacy, it isn’t the only one. It’s not that Tor is evil; it’s just that the same tools that protect political dissidents are pretty good at protecting criminals too. Part of the reason for this is lack of incentive for content creators on the dark web. Those on Tor aren’t worried about cleaning up their website with the latest SEO tools to boost their relative ranking on the Google and Bing charts. Finding these can prove a challenge, as searching on the dark web can be irritation – visually and operationally.
People browse the dark web for various reasons, including:
- Seeking anonymity for sensitive research.
- Accessing uncensored information in oppressive regimes.
- Participating in forums related to privacy and security.
- Connecting with like-minded individuals.
Once you’ve got access to the dark web, there are several tools and strategies you’ll need to follow to stay safe while browsing it. The safest way to access the dark web is to use a desktop computer and the Tor Browser. Tor (The Onion Router) is a free, open-source system designed to enable anonymous communication across the internet. However, DuckDuckGo doesn’t keep track of your usage and also shows .onion websites in its results.
How to Browse the Dark Web Safely
To ensure your safety while browsing the dark web, follow these steps:
1. Get a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) masks your IP address and encrypts your internet connection, providing an extra layer of security.
2. Download the Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is the most common tool used to access the dark web. It allows users to browse anonymously. Here’s how to get it:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser for your operating system.
- Install the browser following the instructions provided.
3. Adjust Browser Settings
After installation, modify the settings to maximize security:
- Disable scripts by using the NoScript extension.
- Use HTTPS websites whenever possible.
- Avoid downloading files directly.
4. Use Dark Web Directories
To find websites on the dark web, use directories dedicated to listing .onion sites. Some popular directories include:
- The Hidden Wiki
- Dark Web Link Directory
- Onion Wiki
5. Stay Anonymous
Keep your identity private by:
- Never using personal information.
- Avoiding logging into personal accounts.
- Communicating through secure channels.
Common Risks of Browsing the Dark Web
While browsing the dark web, be aware of the potential risks:
- Malware Exposure: Downloading files can lead to infections.
- Online Scams: Many sites can be fraudulent.
- Legal Issues: Some activities are illegal and may have serious consequences.
FAQs about Browsing the Dark Web
Is the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities conducted on it may be against the law.
Can you get caught while browsing the dark web?
While Tor offers a degree of anonymity, it is still possible to be tracked. Using a VPN and adhering to safe browsing practices can mitigate this risk.
What can you find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including:
- Illegal marketplaces.
- Forums on various subjects.
- Whistleblowing platforms.
- Access to articles and studies that may be censored.
Conclusion
Browsing the dark web can be a valuable tool for accessing information anonymously and safely. By following the steps outlined above, users can protect themselves from the potential risks. Always approach dark web content with caution and prioritize your security and privacy.
