How To Get On The Dark Web: 11 Tips To Access It Safely
On the regular web, domains such as are translated into their actual IP addresses via the domain name system (DNS). Ponzi schemes, identity theft, credit card fraud, and other financial scams happen there, so if you fall victim to dark web scams, you can suffer significant financial loss and personal harm. And when a crime is committed, it’s much more challenging for law enforcement to track down the cybercriminals and get your money back. Most of that information is hidden simply because the vast majority of users won’t find it relevant. Much of it is tucked away in databases that Google is either not interested in or barred from crawling. A handful of dark web search engines that do index .onion sites include NotEvil, Ahmia, Candle, and Torch.
Instead of your connection request bouncing from its origin right to its destination, Tor sends your request on a much more roundabout route. You can use Tor almost exactly as you would a conventional browser, however, we would always recommend avoiding any unencrypted (HTTP) sites. Luckily, the latest version of the Tor Browser contains an add-on that forces it to access HTTPS versions of a site if they are available and this add-on is enabled by default. But before we go any further into sorting fact from fiction about this most controversial of online topics, perhaps it’s best we first delve into exactly what the dark web actually is.
Traders cash in on stolen credit card data dumps, initial access points to vulnerable systems, credentials, and intellectual property belonging to companies compromised during cyberattacks. When the dark web is mentioned online, it is usually in tandem with criminal marketplaces and arrests made by law enforcement agencies. Because privacy and anonymity are the hallmarks of the dark web, it’s easy to assume that everything that happens there is illegal. And while plenty of cybercrime does take place, the dark web is used legally as well. Researchers from Recorded Future estimated that while there are more than 55,000 existing onion domains, only 8,400 (or roughly 15%) of these sites were active.
Understanding the Dark Web
Deep web browsers are similar to Google and Edge, with access differences. Websites on the Dark Web bear the .onion extension rather than the top-level domains of .com, .net, .org, and so on. You can find the Tor Browser in the App Store, or just click this URL here. After installing it on your phone, fire it up and connect to the server. Each warning for data leaks also includes the type of information exposed and the essential steps to limit your exposure.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access, and it’s often associated with illegal activities. If you’re asking how do I get on the dark web, it’s important to understand both the risks and the steps involved.
And around the world, users may want to use Tor or the dark web to evade government censorship and surveillance. The dark web is a small subsection of the deep web that’s only accessible with special tools, software or authorization. Similar to the deep web, search engines don’t index material that’s on the dark web. CrowdStrike also offers comprehensive security solutions that help customers understand their digital presence and mitigate any risks. To see how CrowdStrike services could help you or your business stay safe online, start a free trial.
The Tor network makes it easier to hide your identity and allows people to anonymously create and host onion services. As a result, criminals often use the dark web to buy and sell illicit goods and services. Unlike the surface web, there aren’t great search engines for the dark web. You may need to find an onion site’s address on your own, and the names aren’t easy to remember. For example, the CIA’s onion address is ciadotgov4sjwlzihbbgxnqg3xiyrg7so2r2o3lt5wz5ypk4sxyjstad.onion, and the nonprofit newsroom ProPublica’s is propub3r6espa33w.onion.
Why Access the Dark Web?
People might want to access the dark web for various reasons:
- Accessing censored information or communicating privately.
- Conducting research on cybersecurity and underground markets.
- Exploring the culture of anonymity.
- Released to the public in 2004, Tor later became a browser offering easier access to the dark web.
- Let’s say you want to go on the dark web to see what information of yours, if any, is floating around.
- You may then watch the threat as it evolves in order to respond accordingly,” he says.
- The number and variety of cybercrime services available on the dark web are growing, according to Ivan Shefrin, cybersecurity expert at Comcast Business.
- These websites exist in directories that Google (and other search engines) are barred from crawling.
- We also have a guide on Dark Web scans to check if your personal data is exposed.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how do I get on the dark web:
- Download Tor Browser:
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor browser, which allows users to browse anonymously. Download it from the official Tor Project website.
- Install the Browser:
Follow the installation instructions for your operating system. Make sure to allow any necessary permissions.
- Connect to the Tor Network:
Once installed, open the Tor browser and connect to the network. This may take a few moments.
- Adjust Security Settings:
Before exploring, enhance your security settings within the browser for safer browsing.
- Visit Dark Web Websites:
Websites on the dark web typically have .onion domain endings. Use directories or forums that index these sites for navigation.
Safety Precautions
When considering how do I get on the dark web, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety:
- Use a VPN to further protect your identity.
- Keep your personal information private.
- Be aware of scams and potential malware.
- Limit downloads to prevent unwanted installations on your device.
FAQs
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities that occur there may be against the law.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the Tor network provides anonymity, no system is foolproof. Proper measures should be taken to mitigate risks.
Are there legitimate uses for the dark web?
Yes, many use the dark web for privacy-focused communication, whistleblowing, and sharing information in oppressive regimes.
Conclusion
Exploring how do I get on the dark web can open doors to unique information and communities, but it comes with risks that should not be taken lightly. Always prioritize your security and be cautious of the potential dangers involved in accessing this hidden part of the internet.
