The dark web has always been a subject of intrigue and curiosity for many internet users. However, it’s important to note that accessing the dark web comes with its own set of risks and illegitimate activities.
Is the dark web illegal? What happens if someone goes on it?
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web can only be accessed using a special browser called Tor. For instance, your Facebook posts are unindexed and won’t be found via a web browser. Your email inbox, online banking and Google Drive folders are undiscoverable via a web browser. It’s the parts of your internet activity that aren’t hidden per se, but can’t be accessed by others online. Basic online hygiene can prevent security lapses when accessing the deep web. For instance, using an unprotected public network to pay your bills might lead to cybercriminals being able to capture your payment information.
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires specific software or configurations to access. It is characterized by anonymity and often associated with illegal activities due to its hidden nature. While there may be legitimate reasons to explore the dark web, it’s crucial to exercise caution and prioritize your online safety.
So, how can you get onto the dark web? Here are some steps to follow:
- Educate Yourself: Before venturing into the dark web, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved and the type of content you may encounter. Familiarize yourself with topics like encryption, anonymity tools, and virtual private networks (VPNs).
- Choose the Right Tools: To access the dark web, you will need a specialized browser such as Tor (The Onion Router). Download and install the latest version of Tor from the official website.
- Set Up Tor: Once installed, configure Tor according to your preferences. Remember to adjust the security settings and ensure your anonymity is protected.
- Access Darknet Websites: Use Tor to visit darknet websites by entering their URLs directly into the browser. Be cautious when navigating these sites, as they may contain illicit content or scams.
- Protect Your Identity: Maintaining your anonymity is crucial while exploring the dark web. Avoid logging in to personal accounts or revealing any identifiable information that could compromise your safety.
- Exercise Caution: The dark web is notorious for illegal activities, scams, and malicious entities. Be mindful of what you click on, avoid engaging in illegal actions, and refrain from purchasing illicit goods or services.
However, noteworthy differences exist in operation, scope, size, access methodology, applications, and security. The dark web may also be put to good use by whistleblowers, who can leak classified information on the dark web using websites such as Wikileaks. Special tools–the Tor Browser or the Invisible Internet Project (I2P) network–are needed to overcome these obstructions.
A VPN and Tor should be used together and it is advisable to connect via a VPN to Tor, rather than vice versa, for the best protection possible. You could consider the clear or surface web the “top” and visible layer of the internet, easily accessible using a browser such as Safari, Chrome, Edge, or Firefox. When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay.
This may be welcome news to those in states where security services have attempted to block ‘anonymous’ email websites like these from the open web. Since Tor can be used to access websites governments try to block, the dark web can be a useful tool for people living under dictatorships to access western media. Tor is both a type of connection – with the extended relays – and a browser. With your device running a Tor browser, you can go to Tor-specific sites – those with an .onion suffix — or also visit the usual sites on the open web. The connection between Tor’s dark net and the regular internet is bridged via an ‘exit node’.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is accessing the dark web illegal?
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A: No, accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities within the dark web is against the law.
Q: Can I be traced while using Tor?
- ZDNET tested the best VPNs available based on speed, number of servers, security features, price, and more.
- Once you have the necessary tools, you can visit dark web sites by adding their domains to the Tor browser’s address bar.
- Abuse and persecution victims, whistleblowers, and political dissidents have been frequent users of these hidden sites.
- And if you are visiting deep web sites such as your online credit card portal, use a virtual private network, or VPN.
- TOR requests and messages are wrapped in multiple layers of encryption and sent through a specific internet routing mechanism on the dedicated TOR network.
A: While Tor provides a certain level of anonymity, it is not foolproof. Law enforcement agencies and skilled individuals can potentially trace your activities. Therefore, it’s crucial to exercise caution and adhere to legal boundaries.
It is easy to infect your machine while searching the dark web.
Q: Are there any legitimate uses for the dark web?
A: Yes, the dark web has legitimate purposes, such as anonymous communication, avoiding censorship, and whistleblowing. However, it’s essential to separate lawful activities from illegal ones.
How the Deep Web Is Different From Traditional Internet
Q: How can I stay safe while on the dark web?
A: To stay safe, use strong and unique passwords, keep your software up to date, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and regularly scan your system for malware. Additionally, never share personal information or engage in illegal activities.
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*Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only. Accessing the dark web involves inherent risks, and we do not endorse or encourage any illegal activities.
