Step 1: Download And Install A Dark Web Browser
Understanding the Dark Web
For example, if you log on to your medical provider’s website to send messages to your doctor or to check your latest test results, that’s the deep web. Same goes for reading internal memos on your company’s corporate intranet. Not because it’s dark or dangerous, but because it’s not available to see without proper login credentials. Deep web content makes up most of the internet — by some estimates, 96 percent or more, says CSO Daily. Internet safety is more than just protecting your personal information; it’s about maintaining your device’s health and securing your digital footprint from possible cyber threats. The Dark Web, while it has its legitimate uses, can also be rife with malware, hackers, and illegal activities, which necessitates robust safety measures.
There’s a fascinating thread on Reddit (not remotely safe for work) where dark web users share their stories. Some of the tales are enough to make you tape over your webcam and disable your router just in case. Think of it as the dodgy bit of town where sensible people don’t go after dark.
Instead, it passes user data through a randomized link of encrypted servers called nodes. On the other hand, one cannot visit the dark web without purpose-built software. This is because the dark web is placed on darknets, an overlay network that exists ‘on top of” the regular internet. While the content on the dark web has the potential to be more dangerous, this content is usually walled off from regular users. However, it is entirely possible for regular users to accidentally come across harmful content while browsing the deep web, which is much more easily accessible.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines like Google or Bing. It requires specific software and configurations to access. Understanding how to navigate this hidden part of the web safely is crucial for anyone interested in exploring its contents.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
So with all this illegal activity taking place on to the dark web — is it really okay to log ont? While the nature of the dark web has led to abuses and exploitations by bad actors, this underside of the internet is not illicit by nature. The dark web can be a beacon of free speech in authoritarian countries. Dark web sites are not indexed by search engines, so there are no search engines to guide users.
Before you can begin your journey into the dark web, you need to gather the necessary tools:
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. Keep these updated, including Tor and your anti-malware and VPN software. If you go looking for trouble on the dark web, chances are you’ll find it. If you stick to using it for legitimate and legal purposes and proceed with caution, you can have a perfectly safe and secure experience.
You can use the VPN rated #1 for the dark web with no restrictions for a month—great if you want to try this no-log provider’s Onion over VPN servers for yourself. The easiest way to access Tor is through a special browser, known as the Tor Browser. You might want to hide your Tor Browser download using a VPN and your existing browser’s private/incognito mode.
- Tor Browser: The most commonly used browser for accessing the dark web is the Tor browser, which anonymizes your internet traffic.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN adds an additional layer of anonymity and security.
- Secure Device: Make sure your device is free from malware and updated to protect your personal information.
- Knowledge of Safety Practices: Familiarize yourself with safe browsing practices to minimize risk.
Launched in 2011, it is known to be one of the first online platforms of the dark web. The developers of Tor and organisations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) argue that the principal users of Tor are activists and people simply concerned with maintaining their privacy. Certainly, Tor has been used in the past for journalists to talk to whistleblowers and activists, or in making submissions through sites like SecureDrop to a variety of news organisations. Tor provides secrecy and anonymity by passing messages through a network of connected Tor relays, which are specially configured computers. As the message hops from one node to another, it is encrypted in a way that each relay only knows about the machine that sent the message and the machine it is being sent to. The FBI discovered and exploited vulnerabilities in the TOR network.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how do you get to the dark web:
- Download the Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor browser for your operating system.
- Install the VPN: Before launching the Tor browser, turn on your VPN to mask your IP address.
- Open Tor Browser: Once everything is set up, open your Tor browser.
- Connect to the Tor Network: Follow the prompts to connect to the Tor network, which may take a few moments.
- Access .onion Websites: Use the Tor browser to navigate to special websites that end with .onion, which are exclusive to the dark web.
Important Considerations
While exploring the dark web, keep the following considerations in mind:
- Legal Risks: Some activities on the dark web are illegal. Familiarize yourself with the laws in your country.
- Scams and Fraud: Be cautious of scams; not all sites on the dark web are trustworthy.
- Privacy Protection: Never share personal information. Protect your identity at all costs.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
- Even one of the best search engines, called Grams, returns results that are repetitive and often irrelevant to the query.
- The Tor browser you use to access the dark web can mask your identity and location.
- Tor stands for “The Onion Router,” with the onion serving as a reference for the different layers of the internet.
- There are a few websites like HaveIBeenPwned.com and Experian that allow you to look yourself up for free using an email address.
What is the difference between the surface web and the dark web?
The surface web consists of websites readily accessible through standard search engines, while the dark web requires specific tools to access and is not indexed by conventional search engines.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities that occur there may be against the law.
Can you get hacked on the dark web?
Yes, there is a risk of encountering malicious software and being hacked. Practicing safety measures like using a VPN and maintaining good security hygiene is important.
What should I avoid on the dark web?
- Illegal marketplaces
- Scams or phishing sites
- Sending personal information
- Public forums that aim to spread misinformation
Conclusion
Exploring the dark web requires careful preparation and awareness. By understanding how do you get to the dark web and adhering to safety guidelines, you can navigate this hidden part of the internet with greater security.
