Tor Over VPN Explained
Understanding the Dark Web
Can I Use Tor To Browse The Surface Web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access and is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for privacy and freedom of expression, particularly in oppressive regimes.
You may get a dark web alert if your sensitive information is discovered on the dark web. On the other hand, using the dark web can be safer for whistleblowers, journalists, or dissidents whose communications are being monitored by governments or other organizations. It depends on who you are, what you’re doing, and how tech savvy you are. While Tor will encrypt your traffic and hide your IP address, your ISP can still see that you are connecting to the Tor network.
These apps may contain malware used to collect your data in real-time and share it with criminals. So, quickly change your Android or iPhone settings to limit exposure to such applications. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) verifies user identity using more than one authentication method.
The Tor network makes it easier to hide your identity and allows people to anonymously create and host onion services. As a result, criminals often use the dark web to buy and sell illicit goods and services. Unlike the surface web, there aren’t great search engines for the dark web. You may need to find an onion site’s address on your own, and the names aren’t easy to remember. For example, the CIA’s onion address is ciadotgov4sjwlzihbbgxnqg3xiyrg7so2r2o3lt5wz5ypk4sxyjstad.onion, and the nonprofit newsroom ProPublica’s is propub3r6espa33w.onion. The Silk Road was a marketplace on the dark web that launched in 2011, where you could purchase all sorts of illegal goods.
How Do You Get on the Dark Web?
Accessing the dark web can seem daunting, but it can be done safely and securely if you follow the right steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how do you get on the dark web.
However, risks exist because threat actors focus efforts on accessing portions of the deep web for potential financial rewards. Having robust cybersecurity tools, including antivirus software and VPN solutions, are helpful, but they can’t keep your data off dark marketplaces. This is because other entities you engage, like employers, healthcare providers, insurers, retailers, and even government agencies, can fall victim to a security event and leak your data.
It can’t be access via the usual search engines and is reached in other, less widely-known ways. Google or Bing won’t help you find anything on the dark web – you will need a dark web search engine like DuckDuckGo. It’s one of the few search engines that index .onion websites – the domain of all Tor sites. The Tor Browser uses several layers of encryption to strengthen your anonymity and has integrated the DuckDuckGo search engine, a system that makes a point of not saving or logging your search queries. There are many legitimate uses for dark web services and communication. As search engine crawlers do not catalog these pages, you would need to know the exact link to access a website in this area of the internet.
Mullvad is one of the few providers that offer the VPN Over Tor configuration to access the dark web. This involves passing internet traffic through the Tor network first, and then through the VPN. It’s a less recommended configuration, though it does offer protection against exit nodes run by those with malicious intent. Most of the content online sits on the Deep Web, which is not accessible via search engines, like the world wide web is. That is because the Deep Web hosts information that is private for a range of reasons, mainly security and privacy related.
In fact, a recent judgment by the US Supreme Court denoted that simply using Tor was sufficient probable cause for law enforcement to search and seize any computer around the world. A handful of dark web search engines that do index .onion sites include NotEvil, Ahmia, Candle, and Torch. Dark net websites are called “Tor hidden services”, and they can be distinguished from normal websites by their URLs. So, if you want to know how to access the dark web safely, you need to understand that the vast majority of the dark web, or dark net, is only accessible through the Tor browser.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
- Download and Install a Secure Browser
- Ensure Your Security Settings are Proper
- Use a VPN
- Access the .onion Websites
- Exercise Caution and Anonymity
The first step in accessing the dark web is to download the Tor Browser, which is specifically designed for this purpose.
Once installed, configure your Tor Browser to enhance your privacy. Make sure to look into the security settings and disable scripts if needed.
For an additional layer of protection, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) alongside the Tor Browser. This will help to anonymize your internet usage and further secure your connection.
After securing your browser and connection, start browsing by using specific .onion URLs. These sites are unique to the dark web.
Always remain anonymous while browsing. Avoid sharing personal information and be cautious about the sites you visit.
Risks Associated with the Dark Web
While the dark web can provide valuable resources and a means of communication for those in need, it also carries risks:
- Illegal Activities: Many transactions and activities on the dark web are illegal, exposing users to potential legal trouble.
- Scams: The dark web hosts numerous scams that can lead to financial losses.
- Malware: Many sites may attempt to infect your system with malware.
Best Practices for Safety on the Dark Web
To minimize the risks while accessing the dark web, follow these best practices:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Your identity should always remain hidden.
- Use Strong Passwords: Protect your accounts with complex passwords.
- Do Your Research: Understand the websites you visit and their reputations.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web
What is the primary purpose of the dark web?
The dark web serves various purposes, including anonymous communication, sharing sensitive information, and facilitating privacy in regions with oppressive governments.
- In this case, you’ll get unlimited bandwidth, impenetrable security, a no-logs policy, and blazing-fast speeds.
- The affiliates distribute the ransomware packages through the dark web.
- In December of 2015, a websitecalled code breaker released a podcast describing shopping experience on the marketplace.
- Disabling JavaScript will greatly limit the possibilities of other parties tracking you.
- When you access the dark web, you’re not surfing the interconnected servers you regularly interact with.
Is the dark web illegal?
While the dark web itself is not illegal, many activities that occur there may be illegal, such as drug trafficking and the distribution of stolen data.
Can I access the dark web without Tor?
Using the Tor Browser is the most common method to access the dark web. Other methods exist but are generally less secure.
Is it safe to browse the dark web?
Browsing the dark web can be risky, but by taking necessary precautions and employing best practices, you can reduce your exposure to risks.
By understanding these steps and best practices, you can safely explore the dark web while mitigating potential dangers. Always prioritize your security and privacy when venturing into this hidden part of the internet.
