The dark web, often associated with illegal activities and hidden services, can be a mysterious and intriguing place for many internet users. While accessing the dark web comes with risks, it is possible to navigate this part of the internet safely and securely. In this article, we will discuss how to access the dark web and protect your privacy while doing so.
Being a part of the deep net, dark web operates differently than the clear-net, and needs special client software to be accessed. While there are multiple ways to access the dark web, the most common and recommended method involves using TOR, and then visiting the .onion websites. All dark web website have a url with .onion TLD (top level domain), which looks similar to the way the clear-net websites have .com, .org, .net, etc. It’s legal to use the dark web in most countries, but there are places where using the dark web might be against the law. I strongly advise doing your own research to make sure you’re not breaking any local laws by visiting the dark web. Also, even in countries where accessing the dark web is legal, it’s still against the law to use or host sites that promote criminal activities.
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Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a section of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. Instead, it requires special software, such as Tor (The Onion Router), to access. The dark web is known for its anonymity and encryption, making it a haven for illegal activities like drug trafficking, hacking, and other illicit transactions.
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Accessing the Dark Web
Then there’s the less popular VPN over Tor, which is advised against by the official Tor Project. Only two VPN providers that we know of, AirVPN and BolehVPN, offer this service, although neither of these score highly for speeds. Internet traffic first passes through the Tor Network, and then through the VPN. This means the VPN provider doesn’t see your real IP address and the VPN protects you from those bad exit nodes. Most of that information is hidden simply because the vast majority of users won’t find it relevant.
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To access the dark web, you will need to download and install the Tor browser. This browser allows you to browse .onion websites, which are not accessible through regular browsers. Once you have installed the Tor browser, simply open it and start browsing the dark web.
Tor is a web browser used to stay anonymous online or access dark web. Tor shares similarities with VPNs and proxy servers in that all these tools enable some level of anonymous browsing. Tor can be used together with a VPN to provide powerful, overlapping levels of privacy and anonymity. It’s possible to buy and sell illegal drugs, malware, and prohibited content in darknet marketplaces. Some dark web commerce sites have dangerous chemicals and weapons for sale.
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Tips for Safe Browsing
- Use a VPN: To enhance your privacy and security while browsing the dark web, consider using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it more difficult for hackers or government agencies to track your online activity.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links: Just like on the surface web, the dark web is full of malicious websites that may contain malware or scams. Be cautious when clicking on links and only visit websites that you trust.
- Disable Javascript: Javascript can pose security risks on the dark web, so consider disabling it in your Tor browser settings to prevent potential vulnerabilities.
- Stay anonymous: To maintain your anonymity on the dark web, avoid sharing personal information or using your real name. Create a pseudonym and use secure passwords to protect your identity.
You’ll need a virtual private network, the Onion Browser, and a directory of dark web websites and links. This feature is especially crucial when accessing the Dark Web, as it is designed to protect users from potential surveillance and censorship. Sometimes people use the term deep web interchangeably with the dark web, but the two are not the same.
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Tor Links is a backup directory of “.onion” sites in case other directories go offline. The best Tor sites are under constant threat of closure, including Tor directories like the Hidden Wiki, so having a backup in case one goes down is handy. Get the latest in privacy news, tips, tricks, and security guides to level-up your digital security.
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By following these tips and taking necessary precautions, you can explore the dark web safely and protect your privacy while doing so. Remember to always exercise caution and use common sense when navigating the depths of the internet’s underbelly.
- Antivirus software will protect your device from malicious software, while firewalls help prevent unauthorized access to your system.
- Lesser known darknets include ZeroNet, a peer-to-peer-based web hosting model developed in 2015 that doesn’t use IP addresses or domains for websites.
- The underlying IP address and server location are hidden, and you also need a specific web browsing software called Tor (The Onion Routing) to open it.
- In fact, it’s better in the interest of privacy that these pages aren’t readily visible.
