Hidden Wallet
A deep search is perfect for finding out if your private information is floating out in this space. Unlike regular search engines, Deep Web search engines are designed to uncover hidden and often more obscure content that may not be easily accessible through standard search methods. Using the Tor Browser, users can browse the internet privately, avoid censorship, and access blocked websites. However, browsing speeds may be slower due to the multi-layered encryption process. Though Facebook knows a lot about you than you can imagine, it isn’t keen on sharing this data with others.
For this kind of connection, you can use a logless VPN that doesn’t store any traffic logs – things you search on the internet, or session logs – your IP address and similar information. Everyone who has access to the internet uses the Surface web, or as some like to call it – the Clearnet. That content is indexed by different search engines like Google, Bing, Yandex, Duckduckgo, Yahoo, Baidu, etc. Again – results consist of only indexed content by that search engine. Basically, it’s an intentionally hidden part of the internet that can only be accessed using Tor.
Understanding the Dark Web
The Deep Web and Dark Web should not be confused, although both may refer to portions of the Internet. This illegally-obtained data can allow malicious actors to gain access to confidential data, use stolen credit card numbers, and even bring down the entire remote infrastructure of an enterprise. Interestingly, even Facebook can be accessed as a Tor-hidden service, allowing users in countries with no legal access to its platform to visit the website safely. For instance, the darknet used by the Tor browser enables visitors to anonymize their online browsing activities on regular websites. The dark web was originally a domain exclusively used by cybercriminals and governments. Today, this is no longer true–advanced encryption technologies have made the anonymization of web surfing a hassle-free affair for regular users.
This could include government services to access your records, health care services, members-only areas, intranets, or corporate resources. No longer restricted to dial-up, many of us now consider access to a stable high-speed internet connection a critical element of our daily lives. We pay our bills online, check our bank statements, communicate via email, find information, and maintain a presence on social media. The deep web is just the part of the internet you can’t find with a search engine. It’s not mysterious or spooky; it’s home to everyday things like scientific research, medical records, private financial information, and secure communications.
Some alleged services like the professional “hitmen” may just be scams designed to profit from willing customers. Reports have suggested the dark web offers many illegal services, from paid assassinations to trafficking for sex and weapons. Malicious software — i.e. malware — is fully alive all across the dark web. It is often offered in some portals to give threat actors the tools for cyberattacks. However, it also lingers all across the dark web to infect unsuspecting users just like it does on the rest of the web. Venturing further into the deep web does bring a bit more danger to the light.
One of the main resources for navigating through websites on the Darknet is through directories. TOR stands for “The Onion Router”, it got its name from the fact that in order to reveal the core user of the browser you’ll have to peel a lot of layers off, just like an onion. And then there’s the bad stuff – contract killers, child porn, drugs, and other nasty stuff which share the same benefits of anonymity as the good sites. This is probably going to be one of the longest posts I’ve written on 99Bitcoins, but also the most interesting of them all.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It exists on an encrypted network and requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. For those curious about this hidden corner of the internet, knowing how to find the dark web is essential.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Before exploring the dark web, you need to gather a few tools and knowledge:
- Tor Browser: A specialized browser that allows users to access .onion sites and anonymizes their internet activity.
- VPN: Using a Virtual Private Network can enhance your security and anonymity.
- Basic knowledge of internet security: Understanding the risks and how to avoid them is crucial when accessing unknown sites.
Steps on How to Find the Dark Web
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to find the dark web:
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser. Installation is straightforward—follow the prompts provided.
- Use a VPN: Before you open the Tor Browser, consider connecting to a VPN service to hide your real IP address.
- Launch Tor Browser: Once installed, open the Tor Browser and connect to the network. This may take a minute or two.
- Access .onion Sites: Use directories or Reddit communities that list .onion sites. Make sure to double-check the credibility of the sources.
Finding Reliable Directories
When searching for .onion sites, it’s essential to use reputable directories. Here are some known sources:
- The Hidden Wiki: A well-known directory offering links to various dark web sites.
- Dark Net Markets: Lists of marketplaces where users buy and sell goods anonymously.
- Reddit Communities: Subreddits like r/darkweb and r/deepweb often share resources and links.
Safety Precautions
- In attempting to access the Dark Web, there’s an invisible line that a person acknowledges they’re crossing – or maybe they don’t.
- You may accidentally reveal personal information or click on the wrong link and infect your computer with malware.
- By monitoring your credit report and other sensitive information, you can quickly discover if your leaked information has been used by criminals.
- All of these technical details serve to promote anonymity and protect dark web users’ privacy.
- However, considering that an average internet user has around 100 online accounts, remembering every single complex password is out of the realm of possibility – unless you have photographic memory.
Ensuring your safety while navigating the dark web is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Do not share personal information: Avoid revealing any identifying details, such as your name, address, or financial data.
- Be cautious with downloads: Files from the dark web may contain malware; be sure to scan them with trustworthy antivirus software.
- Stay anonymous: Use pseudonyms and avoid using accounts tied to your real identity.
- Educate yourself on scams: The dark web can be rife with scams; understanding common patterns can help you navigate safely.
FAQs About Finding the Dark Web
What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web includes all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines, such as private databases and webmail. The dark web is a small portion of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible without special tools.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities conducted on the dark web, such as drug trafficking or illegal arms sales, are. Users must be cautious and aware of their actions.
Can you be tracked on the dark web?
While Tor provides a significant degree of anonymity, no method is foolproof. Users should take additional precautions, such as using a VPN, to reduce their chances of being tracked.
By following these guidelines on how to find the dark web and prioritizing your safety, you can explore this hidden segment of the internet with increased awareness and reduced risk.
