How To Access Dark Web?
Understanding How to Access the Dark Web
Onion sites are hosted on a web server in the same way as ordinary sites, but you change web server configurations so that it only responds to your localhost. Then, you configure Tor to designate it as a Tor service, which will give you an onion link to your site. A 2019 study found that there were about 55,000 different onion sites, while only about 8,400 of them were active. Keybase also offers extremely user-friendly secure chat and file-sharing services through its app.
While there is no official naming convention for these things, a common definition of the Dark web is that part of the Deep web that you need specialized tools to visit. You can’t just look up some Dark web page in your regular search engine and dive head first into the darkness. You need a specialized browser and either a specialized search engine or direct knowledge of an address to reach Dark web pages.
That’s why search engines don’t index material that’s on the dark web, and content there can only be discovered with search engines and browsers specifically designed to excavate these hidden sites. As the name suggests, the dark web doesn’t refer to a specific site or page—it’s a type of network called a darknet. For instance, if you set up a private and secure network with a group of friends that isn’t accessible by normal internet browsers, it’ll be an example of a darknet.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines. It requires specific software to access and is often associated with privacy, anonymity, and sometimes illegal activities. If you’re curious about how to access the dark web, this guide will outline the necessary steps and precautions.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Furthermore, no entity has authority over the dark web or can impose regulations. This is precisely why the dark web is often linked with unlawful activities. Given the dangers that lurk on the dark web, it’s a no-brainer that you shouldn’t disclose any personal information like your name, email address, phone number, or financial details. If an email is required, use a burner mail account or an anonymous, secure email provider. It’s also important to note that browsing the dark web on a mobile device can be more dangerous than on a desktop or PC. Dark web sites can track your location (using GPS or WiFi location tracking) and access other information easily when you’re using a mobile device.
Before you delve into the dark web, it’s essential to equip yourself with the right tools:
- VPN: A Virtual Private Network helps mask your IP address, providing additional anonymity.
- Tor Browser: This is the primary browser for accessing the dark web, designed to route traffic through multiple servers to enhance privacy.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using privacy-focused operating systems like Tails or Qubes OS, which are built for secure operations.
From here, I recommend connecting to a VPN server first and then using Tor. This is something called Tor over VPN, where the VPN will mask the fact that you’re using Tor once you connect to a VPN server. Now that you know that using a VPN is mandatory for safe and secure dark web access, let’s see how to combine it with Tor to achieve the result you want. A corrupt node will expose your IP address and let hackers and snoopers steal your data. Besides, there are lots of them on the dark web, so this is something to keep in mind.
Understanding that the nature of the internet meant a lack of privacy, an early version of Tor was created to hide spy communications. Eventually, the framework was repurposed and has since been made public in the form of the browser we know today. 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. If you take the necessary steps to ensure safety and security, the dark web will be a safe place. However, if you use only Tor without a VPN, the risk of compromising your privacy is significantly bigger.
However, using a mobile device can potentially expose you to additional security risks, so it’s important to take additional precautions. Android users can also access the Dark Web directly from their devices. This process differs slightly from the desktop method and requires its own set of precautions. Your Wi-Fi network is another handy access point that hackers use to infiltrate your computers, steal your identity, and grab your personal details. In 2021, the average American spent over 8 hours on the internet daily.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Follow these steps to access the dark web safely:
- Install a VPN:
Choose a reputable VPN and install it on your device. Ensure that it offers no-logs policy and strong encryption.
- Download Tor Browser:
Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser. Be cautious of fake sites.
- Connect to the VPN:
Before launching the Tor Browser, connect to your VPN to enhance your privacy.
- Launch the Tor Browser:
Open the Tor Browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- Explore Dark Web Links:
Access .onion websites, which are unique to the Tor network. You can find directories that list these links.
- The deep web contains sites and pages that are often prevented from being indexed by search engines and contain unlinked content.
- Examples of the deep web include any websites that are behind a paywall or require log-in credentials.
- While accessing the Dark Web, it is essential to practice good browsing habits, such as avoiding clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.
- Moreover, VPN is a good alternative to using the darknet for privacy.
Safety Tips While Browsing the Dark Web
When accessing the dark web, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety:
- Do not share personal information: Maintain anonymity by avoiding the sharing of any identifying information.
- Be cautious of downloads: Files can contain malware; only download from trusted sources.
- Stay away from illegal activities: Engaging in illegal activities can have serious legal consequences.
- Use cryptocurrency for transactions: If transactions are necessary, use cryptocurrencies that prioritize anonymity.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
1. Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities found there is against the law.
2. Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web provides anonymity, it’s still possible to be tracked. Using a VPN and the Tor Browser can help mitigate this risk.
3. What are .onion sites?
.onion sites are specially formatted URLs that can only be accessed through the Tor Browser. They often house a variety of content unique to the dark web.
4. What should I do if I encounter something illegal?
If you come across illegal content, it’s best to exit the site immediately and avoid engaging with it.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be done safely if you take the necessary precautions and understand the risks involved. Remember to prioritize privacy and legality while exploring this hidden part of the internet.
