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 whistleblowing. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to enter the dark web safely and securely.
Best Browsers For Accessing The Deep And Dark Web
- If you plan to spend longer on the dark web, we recommend using Tails OS with the Tor Browser (method 2).
- Needless to say, we don’t recommend indulging in this nasty side of the darknet.
- There are multiple search engines on the dark web that can help you find what you’re looking for.
- Here are a few quick tips for safely browsing the Dark Web while protecting your privacy.
What is the Dark Web?
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. The Apple App Store and the Google Play Store are also filled with fake apps that are not safe to use. For these reasons, you should use a computer to access the dark web if you have the option to. You can also access the dark web on a computer using Tails OS and the Tor Browser. This is the safest method as it completely isolates your dark web activity from your main hard drive. In the following guide, we’ll explain the safest way to access the dark web using privacy-enhancing tools like VPNs, the Tor Browser, Tails, PGP verification, and more.
Accessing The Dark Web On IPhone:
While criminal activity (including trade in stolen data and identity theft) may be the first thing people think of when they hear about the dark web, it’s far from the only reason to use it. However, it is generally used for activities that people want to actively keep secret. Thousands of illegal hotspots and websites on the Dark Web are used to conduct illicit transactions for stolen and counterfeit data, credit card details, weapons, and much more.
The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and are only accessible through specialized software, such as the Tor browser. It is often referred to as the “deep web” or the “hidden web.” The dark web is estimated to be about 500 times larger than the surface web, which is the part of the internet that is accessible through search engines.
Why Enter the Dark Web?
There are several reasons why someone might want to enter the dark web. Some people use it to access information that is censored in their country, while others use it to communicate anonymously. Whistleblowers and journalists also use the dark web to share sensitive information without fear of retribution. However, it’s important to note that the dark web is also used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
How to Enter the Dark Web Safely
Is It Legal To Browse The Dark Web?
Entering the dark web can be risky, but there are steps you can take to minimize the risks. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enter the dark web safely:
- Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) will encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address, making it harder for anyone to track your online activity.
- Download the Tor browser: The Tor browser is a free, open-source software that allows you to access the dark web. It works by routing your internet connection through a series of servers, which makes it difficult to trace your online activity.
- Use a secure email provider: Regular email providers, such as Gmail and Yahoo, can be easily monitored. Consider using a secure email provider, such as ProtonMail or Tutanota, to protect your privacy.
- Be cautious: The dark web is full of scams and frauds. Be cautious when clicking on links and downloading files. Only visit websites that have a good reputation and avoid sharing personal information.
Can the FBI track Tor?
The FBI recently made headlines (again) for using secret network investigation techniques to track down a suspect who was using TOR to anonymously access an ISIS website. While an applaudable cause and effort, this may raise concerns for a number of other groups and individuals.
Even more of a threat, hackers looking to make a lot of money and profit off people and companies around the world have found a way to do it — fast and at scale. While personal information may seem invaluable to you, cybercriminals trade personal information for a mere few dollars on the black markets that exist on the Dark Web. The Deep Web hosts information that usually requires a username and a password to access, mainly for security and privacy-related reasons.
Hidden Answers — Ask Your Questions Anonymously
FAQs
Who owns Tor?
Today TOR is a not-for-profit organisation run by Roger Dingledine, Nick Mathewson and a number of volunteers. TOR volunteers are responsible for hiding the users' IP address by acting as an 'exit node' and using their IP address in the place of the TOR user.
Is it illegal to enter the dark web? No, it is not illegal to enter the dark web. However, some activities on the dark web, such as buying and selling illegal goods, are illegal.
Now that you’re connected to the Dark web, you need someplace to go. But it is not particularly easy to use, and isn’t designed for working with the Surface web. Combining a VPN with Tor gives your messages an additional layer of encryption along with the increased privacy of hiding your actual IP address. You can find out a lot more about the ways these two systems work in our VPN vs Tor comparison.
Can I get in trouble for accessing the dark web? If you are using the dark web for illegal activities, you can get in trouble with the law. However, simply accessing the dark web is not illegal.
Can I use my regular browser to access the dark web? No, you cannot use your regular browser to access the dark web. You need to use a specialized browser, such as the Tor browser.
Is Tor legal in the US?
Tor is legal in the US. You won't likely get in trouble just because you use the Tor browser. However, Tor is not a lawless domain, so you can't use this browser for illegal activities. If you use Tor for buying drugs or weapons, you are held responsible against the law.
Can I be traced on the dark web? It is difficult to trace someone’s online activity on the dark web, but it is not impossible. Using a VPN and the Tor browser can help protect your privacy.
Is the dark web dangerous? The dark web can be dangerous if you are not careful. There are many scams and frauds on the dark web, and some websites host illegal content. It is important to be cautious when accessing the dark web.
Are there illegal Google searches?
Can a Google search be illegal? Yes, some terms are illegal to Google, and your activity after these searches can be monitored by the authorities.