Browse Better At Night
If you want, you can use it to visit Facebook, YouTube, Twitch, or any other surface web website without problems. If you want to get on the dark web on your iPhone, know that Tor isn’t available for this platform. However, the developers of Tor recommend Onion Browser which you can download for free from the Apple Store. This method is way less secure and its complex setup retracts many people from trying it out.
In the last few years, international crime agencies have successfully worked together to shut down dark web marketplaces and arrest criminals. If you access the dark web without a VPN, your ISP is likely to pick up on the Tor activity, and it might mark you out for surveillance. Tor activity picked up by an ISP has been used in the past by law enforcement as incriminating behavior. These fake websites often closely resemble real websites, so it’s incredibly hard to tell if they are legitimate sites or not. They will have a similar domain name, logo, login page, and layout to lure users into interacting with the phishing site. Other websites might recommend using The Hidden Wiki to navigate the dark web.
Understanding How to Access Dark Web on iPhone
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines, requiring specific software to access. If you’re looking to access dark web on iPhone, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations. Keep in mind that accessing the dark web comes with various risks, including legal issues and exposure to potentially harmful content.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Yes, it is safe to access the dark web on your iPhone if you use a VPN and access it for good things. You can’t just type “silk road” into Google and expect to see a dark website. Accessing the dark web on an iPhone is as easy as using a Windows device, and you only need to follow 3 steps to get on the dark web. By accessing the dark web without a VPN, you will reveal yourself to cyber attacks.
In fact, most of us use a portion of the dark web on a daily basis without realizing it. Whether it’s an email service, private messages on Facebook, or other common internet activities, we’re all involved in some way in the dark web. The sheer amount of data on the dark web makes it difficult to quantify the scope of its potential. The dark web is an area of the internet that is not indexed by search engines, so you need to get your phone rooted or jailbroken to access it. Then, you will need to install a third party program, such as Tor, to connect to the dark web. Some phones have browsers that can give you access to the dark web, but the best way to go about this is to download a Tor-based web browser.
The Tor browser comes with three layers of security that are worth considering and using. Go to the Advanced Security Settings option that’s accessed by clicking on the Shield button. The advanced settings offer a choice of the default standard, safer, and safest. Turn on your VPN connection; you can perform this test at whatsmyipaddress.com, dnsleaktest.com, or ipleak.net. The IP address displayed after the test should be different from your actual IP address. If it’s the same, your VPN leaks your IP address and risks your digital security.
To access dark web on iPhone, you will need:
- Tor Browser: The primary software used for dark web access.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Provides an added layer of security and anonymity.
- Security Awareness: Knowledge of both the risks and the types of content you may encounter.
The Silk Road was a marketplace on the dark web that launched in 2011, where you could purchase all sorts of illegal goods. The vast majority of transactions consisted of illegal drugs, but you could also find weapons, personal information, child pornography and stolen credit card details. Allegedly, it was also possible to hire hit men on the site, though it’s never been proven that any of these contracts were actually fulfilled. The reason why the deep net provides this level of privacy for website hosts is that the .onion address that you use to access the website obfuscates the actual IP address of the server.
This makes it impossible to track down the physical server under ordinary circumstances. That’s not to say that the entire deep web consists of these difficult-to-find websites. Staying safe on the dark web requires even more vigilance than the public internet. Scammers and criminals are lurking everywhere to take advantage of the unwary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access the Dark Web on iPhone
Follow these steps to securely access dark web on iPhone:
- Download a VPN:
Select a reputable VPN from the App Store. Ensure it has strong encryption features.
- Install Tor Browser:
Direct access to a Tor browser for iOS may not be available. Instead, look for browsers like “Onion Browser” that can serve the same purpose.
- Connect to the VPN:
Open your VPN application and connect to a server. This hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic.
- Open the Onion Browser:
Start the Onion Browser, which provides the necessary framework to access .onion sites.
- Explore the Dark Web:
Type in the .onion address of the site you wish to visit.
Safety Tips for Navigating the Dark Web
When you access dark web on iPhone, it’s crucial to prioritize safety:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid disclosing any identifiable information.
- Be Cautious of Links: Click on familiar and trusted links only to minimize malware exposure.
- Use Strong Security Software: Keep your iPhone secure with updated antivirus and anti-malware tools.
- Understand the Legal Risks: Be aware that engaging in illegal activities can lead to severe legal consequences.
Potential Risks of Accessing the Dark Web
There are several risks associated with accessing this hidden part of the internet:
- Malware and Scams: The dark web is rife with malicious software and scams targeting unsuspecting users.
- Exposure to Illegal Content: Many sites host illegal content, and inadvertently accessing such material can land users in legal trouble.
- Anonymity Does Not Equal Safety: While Tor provides anonymity, it does not guarantee safety from law enforcement or hackers.
- Dark websites, also known as.onion sites, are websites that are only accessible through the Tor network.
- That’s why it takes much longer to load a page in Tor than in Chrome, for instance.
- It’s great how the site has a Security Scenarios section too, where it offers personalized security tips for specific audiences (activists, academic researchers, journalists, and more).
- However, it’s important to choose a reputable VPN provider like ExpressVPN to ensure the highest level of security.
- Suppose you take a proactive approach to security and take every step to protect your data, and you notice some lapses.
- Onion browser and Red Onion Browser, for example, allow you to access .onion site on your iPhone.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web on iPhone
Can I access the dark web without a VPN?
While it’s possible, it is highly discouraged. A VPN adds a crucial layer of security and anonymity.
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Yes, accessing the dark web is legal in many countries. However, engaging in illegal activities there is not.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
It’s best to exit the site immediately and avoid further interactions. Reporting such content to authorities may also be advisable.
Can I use standard browsers to access the dark web?
No, standard browsers cannot access .onion sites. Specialized software like Tor is necessary.
Accessing the dark web on an iPhone requires careful preparation and awareness. By following the outlined steps and remaining vigilant, users can minimize risks while exploring this hidden part of the internet.
