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Regardless of being a business, parent, or any other user of the web, you’ll want to take precautions to keep your information and private life off the dark web. With many Tor-based sites being overtaken by police authorities across the globe, there is a clear danger of becoming government target for simply visiting a dark website. If you choose to pursue exploring any sites on the dark web, you put yourself at risk of being singled out and targeted for hacks and more.
Understanding the Dark Web
This part of the internet rests below the surface and, like the bulk of an iceberg unseen underwater, actually accounts for 90% of all websites. No, The Deep Web mainly consists of Databases and Documentaries of Public/Private organizations or individuals. The “surface web” is the portion of the internet that is easily traceable and indexed by search engines. Only 4% of the Internet is covered by the surface web; the rest is made up of the dark web and other forms.
You can use TOR to surf the pedestrian web (the everyday Internet you and I know and love) anonymously, or you can use it to access the Darknet. 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. With all our technology and connectedness comes a price, vulnerability. Now more than ever before, our credit and identities are at risk from cybercriminals, thieves, and hackers. Everyone’s heard some form of the age-old adage, “Information is power. ” Today, managing data is what gives organizations huge advantages over their competitors. Identity theft is a real and distressing crime that’s becoming a greater risk as more sensitive data moves to online locations.
Accessing the dark web is not necessarily riskier than browsing the surface or deep web. And depending on what you’re using the dark web for, it may actually be safer because of its heightened privacy protections. To use the dark web safely, stick to recommended security practices, like clicking only on trusted links and using antivirus software. The Hidden Wiki is a surface website offering a collection of dark web links — but the links don’t always work, and they may not be safe. Use it to get an idea of what sort of dark websites you may be interested in visiting. But before visiting any sites on the dark web, get comprehensive cybersecurity software to protect yourself from any threats you may encounter.
The BBC and other well-known news services are blocked in some parts of the world. But people can still access independent media via BBC Tor Mirror and similar dark web news portals. The BBC Tor Mirror is an international version of the BBC that focuses on world affairs, and it’s extremely useful for those who live under strict censorship laws. Onion sites are websites on the dark web that use the “.onion” top-level domain instead of “.com,” “.net,” “.gov,” etc.
Hackers don’t always attack companies and individuals to use the breached data themselves. They can sell that stolen information on the dark web to other scammers and criminals. 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 personal information may seem invaluable to you, cybercriminals trade personal information for a mere few dollars on the black markets that exist on the Dark Web.
- JavaScript is the reason Google can suggest search results in real time while you’re typing because it’s able to see your keystrokes, one by one.
- Archive.today is considered an important tool to track changes across government and corporate websites, preserve cultural heritage, and keep knowledge outside of autocrats’ reach.
- Top safety measures should be taken when accessing a potentially dangerous place like the dark web.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific tools and configurations to access. This hidden subsection of the internet is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves legitimate purposes, such as privacy protection and communication for whistleblowers.
Simply accessing the dark web and using the Tor browser may already raise government suspicion. The advantage of using a dedicated computer just to browse the dark web is that your main computer isn’t exposed to any of the threats or risks tied to entering the dark web. In case of an attack, you can be sure that any of the data or information stored on your main computer will be safe.
Tor websites are located at this far end of the deep web, which are deemed the “dark web” and are only accessible by an anonymous browser. Locating surface web websites is possible because search engines can index the web via visible links (a process called “crawling” due to the search engine traveling the web like a spider). It’s in people’s nature to be thoroughly interested in hidden and obscure stuff. And while the surface internet is populated with interesting and varied sites, due to this nature, people often want to know how to get on the dark web safely and securely. If you want to improve your security further, you could also use a VPN at the same time as Tor.
How to Access the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web can seem daunting, but with the right tools and precautions, you can navigate it safely. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access the dark web.
- Download the Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is essential for accessing the dark web. It allows users to browse anonymously and reach .onion websites. - Install and Configure
Follow the installation instructions carefully. Once installed, run the browser and configure your settings for optimal anonymity. - Connect to the Tor Network
Upon opening the Tor Browser, it will connect to the Tor Network automatically. Ensure it says “Connected” before proceeding. - Find .onion Links
To browse the dark web, you need specific links, known as .onion URLs. These can be found on various directories. - Use a VPN
For an added layer of security, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This will help mask your IP address even further.
Safety Precautions
When venturing into the dark web, safety is paramount. Follow these precautionary measures to protect your identity and data:
- Never Share Personal Information: Avoid using real names or sharing personal details.
- Be Wary of Downloads: Downloading files can expose your device to malware and security risks.
- Use Encrypted Communication: For messaging, utilize encrypted platforms to keep conversations secure.
- Stay Informed: Knowledge is power. Stay updated on dark web trends and threats.
Common Misconceptions About the Dark Web
Several misconceptions surround the dark web, contributing to misunderstandings about its purpose:
- All Dark Web Content is Illegal: While there is illegal activity, many sites focus on privacy and freedom of speech.
- The Dark Web is Untraceable: While it enhances anonymity, law enforcement can trace activities under certain conditions.
- You Can Access the Dark Web Using Regular Browsers: Regular browsers do not support the unique .onion domains.
FAQs
Can anyone access the dark web?
Yes, anyone with the right tools, such as the Tor Browser, can access the dark web.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web is against the law.
What type of information can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, marketplaces, and blogs focusing on privacy, technology, and social justice issues.
Is it safe to browse the dark web?
Browsing the dark web can be risky. Implementing safety measures and using encryption tools can help mitigate these risks.
Conclusion
Understanding how to access the dark web and doing so safely is essential for navigating this complex part of the internet. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can explore the dark web while prioritizing your security and privacy.
