How To Access The Dark Web Safely
This basically means – sites do not end with extensions such as .com, .net and similar TLDs surface web users are used to seeing. The dark web’s anonymity accommodates illegal activity and contributes to its reputation as being a haven for criminals. This anonymity, coupled with access difficulties and a high barrier to entry, facilitates all manner of illicit activities such as drug and human trafficking, weapons deals, and money laundering. As mentioned above, Tor offers multiple layers of encryption as you browse the dark web.
Working Of Tor Browser:
Understanding the Dark Web
That’s why it takes much longer to load a page in Tor than in Chrome, for instance. All jokes aside, you can see pretty much the same stuff as on the surface web, with a few spicy additions that you can’t find otherwise. The dark web houses websites about conspiracy theories, whistleblowing sites, forums, and even social media sites like BlackBook. On top of that, it’s crucial that you spend your time on verified websites and not wander around too much.
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. This hidden segment of the internet hosts various activities, both legal and illegal, and is known for its anonymity.
And when a crime is committed, it’s much more challenging for law enforcement to track down the cybercriminals and get your money back. Illicit activities on the Dark Web span a broad spectrum, from selling stolen personal data to arms trafficking and drug dealing. However it is generally believed that the majority of Hidden Services contain illicit material.
How to Go to Dark Web
Accessing the dark web involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide on how to go to dark web safely:
- For this reason, many people prefer to use a VPN to encrypt their connection to the Tor network, thereby preventing their ISP from being able to detect that they are accessing the dark web.
- The process repeats until the message arrives at its intended destination.
- Freenet users get involved by giving some of their bandwidth and hard drives.
- The Onion Router (hence the Tor acronym) uses three layers of encryption and a specific internet traffic routing mechanism to ensure complete anonymity.
1. Use a Secure Operating System
The first step is to get a quality VPN and for this case, I recommend ExpressVPN. This provider fully supports Tor over VPN, which means that it can be used to get on the dark web. Beware that this is NOT a free VPN and we intentionally avoid free providers due to security issues. While Tor by itself is a robust and secure privacy tool, combining it with a VPN is an ironclad way to ensure that your privacy isn’t compromised. Additionally, using Tor with a VPN lets you access the Tor Network in situations and locations where it is blocked. We suggest using either Tor Browser or Brave to browse the dark web.
To minimize risks while browsing the dark web, consider using a secure operating system like Tails or Qubes OS:
- Tails – A live operating system that you can start on almost any computer from a USB stick or a DVD. It aims to preserve your privacy and anonymity.
- Qubes OS – A security-oriented operating system that uses virtualization to compartmentalize different tasks and applications.
Specific trends become apparent, however, and some Tor advocates are especially vocal about their reasons for using the service. At each stop, the node only knows the last place the packet was and the next place it will be. No node records the complete path of data, and neither would anyone observing the message go out, assuming your first three servers are configured correctly.
2. Download the Tor Browser
The terms “dark web” and “deep web” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different aspects of the internet. Make sure you change all your passwords, check your credit reports for any discrepancies, and inform your bank(s). You can also put a freeze on your credit to prevent it from being compromised any further. The dark web and the deep web are also often erroneously used interchangeably.
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser for your respective operating system.
- Install the browser as per the given instructions.
3. Use a VPN
Before launching the Tor Browser, it is advisable to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for an additional layer of security:
- Choose a reliable VPN service that prioritizes user privacy.
- Ensure it does not keep logs of your browsing activities.
4. Accessing Dark Web Sites
Once you are set up with the Tor Browser and VPN:
- Open the Tor Browser.
- Use specific .onion domain links to access dark web sites. These links are not available on the regular web.
5. Safety Precautions
Taking safety precautions is crucial on the dark web:
- Do not disclose any personal information.
- Be cautious about the content you download.
- Use cryptocurrency for transactions if necessary.
- Keep your software and security measures updated.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Anonymous communications and activism.
- Accessing censored sites.
- Illicit activities like drug sales and hacking services.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web can result in severe legal consequences.
What are some popular dark web sites?
Some well-known sites on the dark web include:
- Silk Road (previously, for illegal goods).
- Reddit’s dark web pages for discussion and community support.
- SecureDrop for whistleblowers to share information securely.
In conclusion, understanding how to go to dark web safely is essential for anyone considering accessing this hidden part of the internet. Always prioritize security and caution to protect your identity and personal information.
