How To Access The Dark Web With NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN
“There are many dark webs already,” says Douglas Lubhan, VP of threat intelligence at BlackFog. “Basically, any network that is shielded from internet search engines and restricts access to it is a dark web. It means that data breach activity has become more organized in hacking forums, chat apps, and paste sites. “Threat actors increasingly request and share data that fit specific categories, leading to a more structured landscape for illicit data trading,” Boutboul says. A lot can be found in the shadows of the internet from sensitive stolen data to attack tools for sale, the dark web is a trove of risks for enterprises.
It tends to conjure vague notions of bad people secretly doing bad things. But while it certainly is a place where illegal activities are facilitated, it can also be a force for good. Tor can be a safe tool for protecting your online privacy and anonymity when used correctly and responsibly. However, it’s not a guarantee of absolute security, and you should be aware of its limitations and potential risks.
Understanding the Dark Web
Despite this, many people prefer not to advertise to their Internet Service Provider that they are accessing the dark web. Before engaging in any dark web activities, I recommend researching sites ahead of time — use your regular browser to look online and see which sites are reputable. There’s tons of information provided online by security experts recommending trustworthy.onion links.
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines, known for its anonymous browsing and hidden websites.
Accessing the dark web can provide a wealth of information and resources, but it also involves significant risks.
Within the deep web is another part of the internet called the dark web. Dark web sites are so well-hidden they can’t be accessed with normal browsers such as Chrome, Firefox or Safari. The dark web can only be accessed using a special browser called Tor. It’s not easy to find what you’re looking for on the dark web, especially if you want to do it safely. You should only ever access websites you know are safe because they’re vetted by websites or other sources that you already know are safe.
It encrypts your traffic, making it nearly impossible for anyone to intercept or monitor your online activity. When you use Tor, which routes your internet traffic through many different relay “nodes,” your online activity is obscured because you’re browsing anonymously. Tor also supports various privacy extensions, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to track users on the dark web.
Even email services such as Gmail are part of the deep web, as search engines cannot access the data on the platform. Using a VPN, such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN, can offer an extra layer of security when accessing the dark web. It encrypts your connection and masks your IP address, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we’ve tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it’s currently offering 49% off. Free VPNs don’t offer the same security and reliability as premium ones.
How to Go on the Dark Web
To ensure safe access to the dark web, follow these steps:
1. Prepare Your System
Before diving into the dark web, take steps to secure your device:
- Update your operating system and software to minimize vulnerabilities.
- Install a reputable antivirus program and ensure it is active.
- Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to enhance your privacy.
2. Download and Install Tor
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website to download the browser.
- Follow the installation instructions provided on the site.
3. Configure Your Security Settings
Once you have the Tor browser installed:
- Adjust the security settings to your comfort level. The Tor browser offers three levels of security: Standard, Safer, and Safest.
- Consider disabling scripts and other features that could expose your identity.
4. Browse the Dark Web
When you’re ready to explore, use these tips:
- Recognize that many dark web sites use the .onion domain, which is accessible only via Tor.
- Access directories like Hidden Wiki to find links to popular dark web sites.
- Be cautious: not everything on the dark web is illegal, but many sites contain illegal content.
5. Stay Safe While Browsing
It’s essential to prioritize your safety:
- Never share personal information.
- Be wary of downloading files, as these can contain malware.
- Use encrypted communication services if necessary, like Signal or TorChat.
Risks Involved in Accessing the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web comes with certain risks:
- Potential exposure to illegal activities and law enforcement.
- The risk of encountering scams or malicious sites.
- Privacy concerns, such as tracking and data harvesting.
FAQs
What is the dark web?
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines, requiring specific software like Tor for access.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
- Riseup provides email and chat services that keep no record of your activity.
- Onion sites are “crawled” and added to the list provided their “robots.txt” file permits it, and if it is not on their blacklist of sites with abuse material.
- Most of the web is actually the deep web, and whenever we enter login credentials and passwords to view web content, we’re accessing a part of the deep web.
- We hope that you’ll be able to join us forthe upcoming web conferences that we’re offering throughout the year.
Accessing the dark web is not illegal, but many activities and content found there may be illegal.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
If you come across illegal content, it’s best to exit the site immediately and refrain from further interaction.
How can I protect my identity on the dark web?
Using a VPN, never sharing personal information, and practicing safe browsing can help protect your identity.
Exploring the dark web can be intriguing, but it requires careful navigation and respect for the law. Always stay informed and vigilant to ensure a safe experience.
