Types Of Dark Web Search Engines
Understanding the Dark Web
Nathan is an internationally trained journalist with a special interest in the prevention of cybercrime. For VPNOverview he conducts research in cybersecurity, internet censorship, and online privacy. He contributed to developing our rigorous VPN testing and reviewing procedures. If you get NordVPN, you can also use the Tor network whenever you want with its Onion over VPN servers. These are special servers from NordVPN that first hide your IP address and then route your traffic through the Tor network. To access the dark web from a country where the Tor Network is banned or restricted, we suggest using obfuscated servers.
Then, there are plenty of legal sites to visit, from dark web search engines to Bitcoin wallets, privacy tools, and news sites. All you need to do is download and install Tor browser from the Play Store and connect to the Tor network. When you activate Onion Over VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a NordVPN server and then via the Tor network. As a result, you don’t need to use the Tor browser or any specialized browser to access dark web websites. And it doesn’t matter whether you’re using an Android phone or an iPhone.
For example, one of the most common ways to access both the deep web and the dark web is through Tor. The deep web fulfills a range of needs, from allowing people to host and access digital content away from the prying eyes of authoritarian governments, to facilitating a range of illegal activities. It’s important to note that while these browsers provide anonymity and privacy, they do not guarantee complete security. Users should take additional measures to protect their online identity and personal information when using the dark web.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It is a space where user anonymity is prioritized, often utilized for both legitimate and illicit activities. Accessing the dark web on a mobile device, while possible, requires careful consideration and several steps to ensure safety and privacy.
Prerequisites before Accessing the Dark Web
And instead of protecting the entry node, a VPN will protect the exit node in this case, which is already a much smaller problem than the entry node. Basically, they’ll need to configure this setup on a specific server, which will route your Tor traffic. Since you’re first using Tor and then VPN, it’s clear that the entry node will be visible to your ISP who will be able to tell that you’re using Tor. The important thing is that you download it from the official site or Google Play (Android)/Apple Store (Mac). It’s free to download, so you won’t have to pay a single cent to get it.
Remember that a VPN is not a guarantee of absolute anonymity and security. It’s still important to follow other safety precautions when accessing the dark web, such as using the Tor browser and avoiding suspicious links and downloads. However, using a reliable VPN can significantly increase your online security and privacy while accessing the dark web.
The Silk Road was shut down by law enforcement in 2013, but other dark web marketplaces have since emerged to take its place. You can choose 256-bit for maximum protection or 128-bit if you want a faster connection. There are multiple protocol options available and protection against IPv6 leaks and DNS leaks. Proton VPN is part of the Proton family of services provided by Proton Technologies AG. While ProtonMail has a solid commitment to privacy, its location has caused problems for users in the past. In 2021, it was forced by the Swiss courts to begin logging the IP addresses and browser fingerprint information of one of its customers.
It is worth noting that some pages on the deep web contain valuable personal data to cybercriminals. Securing this data prevents it from being compromised and possibly showing up for sale on the dark web. The average monthly traffic received by the deep web is 50% more than surface websites. The volume of public data on the deep web is 400 to 500 times greater than that of the surface web.
In 2015, the founder of a website called the Silk Road was sentenced to life in prison. To use the Deep Web/Dark Web safely, it is best to also ensure that you have VPN apps installed on your devices first. If you are trying to use Tor Network, you can do this by using special software, like Tor’s (official) Browser or Orfox/Orbot combined. Orbot is a free proxy app, and Orfox is an uber-secure Android web browser that was designed with a source code identical to Tor’s. You can use Tor independently, but Orbot and Orfox need to be used together.
Before diving in, it’s essential to equip your phone with the right tools and take protective measures:
- Secure Your Device: Ensure your phone’s operating system is up to date and has no malware.
- Install a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) will help safeguard your identity and encrypt your connection.
- Use a Privacy-Focused Browser: The Tor browser is the most common tool for accessing the dark web.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Access the Dark Web on Phone
Follow these steps to safely navigate the dark web:
- Download and Install a VPN: Begin by downloading a reputable VPN app from your device’s app store. Create an account and connect to a server.
- Download the Tor Browser: For Android users, you can download the Tor Browser directly from the official website. iOS users may need to use the Onion Browser.
- Open the VPN and Tor Browser: Launch your VPN, followed by the Tor Browser. Ensure the VPN is active before proceeding.
- Connect to the Tor Network: Follow the prompts in the Tor Browser to connect to the network, ensuring a secure path to access the dark web.
- Navigate to .onion Sites: Enter URL addresses that end in .onion, as these websites are specifically designed for use within the Tor network.
Best Practices for Safety
While accessing the dark web, observe the following safety tips:
- Never Share Personal Information: Maintain your anonymity by avoiding any form of personal identification.
- Be Aware of Scams: The dark web can be rife with scams. Always exercise caution regarding transactions and interactions.
- Do Not Download Files: Downloading unknown files can compromise your device, exposing it to malware.
- Use Encrypted Communication: If you need to communicate with others, consider using encrypted messaging services.
Common FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web on Phone
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is legal in most countries; however, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is not.
Can I use any smartphone to access the dark web?
Yes, both Android and iOS smartphones can access the dark web; however, ensure they are secured and equipped with necessary tools.
How do I ensure my privacy while using the dark web?
- After connecting, click on “run the test.” To test whether the browser is working properly or not, just type “what is my ID” in the search bar and DuckDuckGo will disable the IP address.
- Users who use desktop are advised to Use Tor browser to access the contents of Dark Web.
- One of the great things about Tor is that it can be used to access both the dark web and the surface web.
- It is crucial to check the status of the antivirus before ushering into the deep web.
Utilize a reliable VPN, do not share personal details, and stick to well-known .onion sites.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
If you stumble upon illegal content, it’s best to exit the site immediately and avoid engaging with it. Report the site to authorities if necessary.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web on your phone opens up a unique and complex environment filled with potential risks and rewards. By following the proper steps and prioritizing your security, you can navigate this obscure realm more safely and responsibly. Always stay informed and cautious whenever dealing with online privacy and security.
