How To Protect Yourself Online
- That way, you can change your passwords and protect your accounts before anyone can use your data against you.
- That’s the desktop edition, but there’s a version for Android and an unsupported onion browsing app for iOS.
- Examples of such users include political activists and journalists.
- By following these measures, you can navigate the Dark Web with an added layer of anonymity, ensuring your online activities remain private and secure.
Understanding the Dark Web
Anyone can access the dark web, and it’s not that complicated to do so. Just remember, if you want to explore the dark web, be very careful. 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.
However, since iOS is a more closed-off ecosystem than Android, the process and precautions are slightly different. Others, such as people who have been cyberstalked or are concerned about the security of online banking, may use it to reduce their risk of becoming a victim of crime. Because of this, it’s always advised to have a VPN (Virtual Private Network) active to keep your device and information safe. Contradictions are very common around the Darknet, as you can find security experts and criminal hackers on the same discussion board exchanging ideas. I opened up the HiddenWiki and tried to pick the most interesting sites I could find. Since this post is already bordering age appropriate content, I’m not going to link to actual websites, only try to share my own experience.
Endpoint security programs like Kaspersky Security Cloud are comprehensive to cover both identity monitoring and antivirus defenses. Identity theft monitoring is critical if you want to keep your private information from being misused. Passwords, physical addresses, bank account numbers, and social security numbers circulate in the dark web all the time.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines and requires specific software to access. It is often shrouded in mystery and misunderstood, leading to both curiosity and caution among users.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Although websites can’t identify you and ISPs can’t decrypt your internet traffic, they can see that Tor is being used. Needless to say, it has 3 security audits – 2 from PwC and 1 from Deloitte, both of which are backed by a plethora of security features that millions of users enjoy. All three providers are super reliable and capable of keeping you safe and secure while your browse the dark web. We like this provider because it offers special Onion Over VPN servers that allow you to go on the dark web instantly, as long as you have Tor installed.
Before diving into how to access the dark web, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools:
- Tor Browser: This is the primary tool used for accessing the dark web. It anonymizes your connection by routing it through multiple servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN enhances your security by encrypting your internet connection and disguising your IP address.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-focused operating system, like Tails or Whonix, to further enhance your security.
For example, the deep web is often a platform used by political activists who own a blog. But it also contains other news and religious sites, private discussion forums, and medical records. Typically, any reference to the visible web will be to common websites with a familiar internet domain extension. Google considers the majority of the content on the entire web highly irrelevant and useless to its users. That’s why such a large percentage (as much as 94%) of the entire web is not returned in Google Search. I also like that ExpressVPN offers split-tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which use your local network.
Android and iOS phones are also much less customizable than their desktop counterparts. They don’t have access to the same software used for browsing the dark web safely. For example, iOS isn’t even compatible with the official Tor Browser.
“It’s a web browser. Use it like one. It’s that simple,” says Muffett. That’s the desktop edition, but there’s a version for Android and an unsupported onion browsing app for iOS. The dark web is infamous as a dangerous place, where drugs are bought and hitmen hired, but it can be a safe way to browse the internet if your privacy is serious concern. Getting that hot new movie may be tempting, but it could very easily come with a side of malware. Once again, be cautious about what you download or do on the dark web – everyone is more or less anonymous there, so there is little accountability.
It’s essential to use caution and follow security best practices to avoid becoming a victim of cybercrime or malware. One of the most popular marketplaces on the dark web is the Silk Road, which was shut down by law enforcement in 2013. Since then, several other marketplaces have emerged, such as Dream Market and Wall Street Market. Make sure you have a unique and strong password for each website you visit on the dark web. Reusing passwords can leave you vulnerable to hacking and identity theft. These VPNs are compatible with Windows, Mac, IOS, Android and any other device with an Internet connection.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Now that you have the necessary tools, follow these steps:
- Install the Tor Browser: Download and install the Tor Browser from the official website to ensure you’re using the latest and most secure version.
- Use a VPN: Connect to a VPN before launching the Tor Browser for an added layer of security.
- Launch the Tor Browser: Open the Tor Browser. It will automatically connect to the Tor network.
- Access .onion Websites: Use only trusted sources to find .onion websites, which are designed for the dark web.
- Keep Your Activities Private: Avoid sharing personal information or engaging in risky activities to ensure your privacy.
Common Risks of the Dark Web
While the dark web can be a source of useful information, it is also fraught with risks:
- Malware: Many sites on the dark web can infect your device with malware.
- Scams: Various fraudulent schemes can deceive users into losing money or personal information.
- Legal Risks: Accessing illegal content can have serious legal consequences.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities conducted on the dark web can be illegal.
Do I need to use a VPN to access the dark web?
While not mandatory, using a VPN is highly recommended for enhanced privacy and security.
What are .onion websites?
.onion websites are special domains only accessible through the Tor Browser, providing anonymity for both users and website operators.
Accessing the dark web requires caution and responsibility. Always prioritize your privacy and security while navigating this hidden part of the internet.
