How To Access The Dark Web Without Using Tor
Understanding the Dark Web
- Accessing the dark web on an iPhone is as easy as using a Windows device, and you only need to follow 3 steps to get on the dark web.
- The dark web news site DeepDot is always full of stories of buyers who have been arrested or jailed for attempting illegal purchases.
- For example, Facebook and the New York Times have websites accessible through the Darknet.
- This is due to the ever-evolving nature of the dark web — search engines there simply can’t keep up with the changes, often providing irrelevant or repetitive results.
- First, you’ll need to download a special browser like Orbot or Onion Browser 🌐.
The dark web is a segment of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access its content, often due to its use for both legitimate and illicit activities. Knowing how to access the dark web safely is essential for anyone interested in exploring it.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Onion routing is a sophisticated means to prevent tracking your location, but there’s no such thing as perfect online anonymity. As you might expect, Bitcoin is the top cryptocurrency being used on the Dark Web. Chainalysis says that $790 million worth of cryptocurrencies were used to shop in darknet markets during 2019. While some studies have claimed that illegal Bitcoin activity is as high as 44%. Tails is a mere 1.3 GB download, so on most connections it will download quickly. You can install it on any USB stick that has at least 8 GB of space.
The Deep web (also known as the Invisible web or the Hidden web) is the part of the World Wide Web that is not visible to standard search engines like Google or DuckDuckGo. While no one knows the exact amount, the total amount of content on the Deep web is believed to be many times as great as that of the Surface web. We’ve often seen estimates that the Deep web is 10 to 20 times as large as the Surface web. You can access the Dark web safely, but just diving in blindly is a bad idea. This is like going spelunking without the proper equipment — you’re likely to get hurt, possibly very badly. We’re going to get you oriented for this journey as fast as possible, then give you the tools you need to get down to the Dark web and look around for yourself.
Anyone can access the deep web by using specialized search engines, dedicated web directories, and other sources that can help you find the data or information. You should also consider this if you choose to visit the dark web. The Tor browser can conceal your true location by shunting your traffic through various relays. But it can’t stop you from entering personal information on websites to say where you are.
To safely navigate the dark web, follow these steps:
- Download Tor Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor network. Download the Tor Browser from the official website to ensure you have a safe version.
- Install the Tor Browser: Follow the installation prompts. It’s available for various operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Connect to the Tor Network: Open the Tor Browser and click ‘Connect’ to establish a connection to the Tor network. This may take a few minutes.
- Adjust Privacy Settings: It’s important to check your Tor settings. Consider using the highest security level to minimize risks.
- Access Dark Web Sites: Use specific URLs that end with .onion. These sites are only accessible through the Tor Browser.
Having open and honest conversations is crucial to helping young people develop safer behaviours online. Explain that there is a lot of illegal content in the Dark Web, and that you do not want them to be exposed to this. Young people are also at risk of exploitation and abuse by sex offenders who use all parts of the internet to target victims. However, there is evidence to show that offenders are more likely to interact with victims on the ‘Open Web’ than on the ‘Dark Web’.
However, in November 2020, the FBI tracked down and seized more than a billion dollars’ worth of Bitcoin related to the site. Our team of experts thoroughly test each service, evaluating it for features, usability, security, value for money and more. Unlike the “normal” web, almost every other website on the Darknet has the “Bitcoin accepted” sign displayed on it.
This service has servers in nearly 100 countries and offers great speeds, making it one of the top choices for going on the dark web. Aside from that, it has a no-logging policy audited by Deloitte, 256-bit encryption, an ad blocker, and even IP/DNS leak protection. Thus, through the dark web, you can buy illegal substances, order a hitman, watch underage pornography, and engage in all sorts of illicit activities. Needless to say, we don’t recommend indulging in this nasty side of the darknet.
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
When accessing the dark web, it’s important to prioritize your safety. Here are some tips:
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network adds an extra layer of anonymity by encrypting your internet connection.
- Never share personal information: Avoid disclosing any personal identifiers, including your real name or location.
- Be cautious of downloads: Files from the dark web can be malicious. Only download files from trusted sources.
- Use secure communication: For any communication on the dark web, utilize encrypted messaging services.
Common FAQs about the Dark Web
Q: Is accessing the dark web illegal?
A: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities on it, such as buying drugs or weapons, is against the law.
Q: What kind of content can I find on the dark web?
A: The dark web hosts a variety of content, from forums and market exchanges to blogs and news outlets, often covering topics that may not be available on the surface web.
Q: Can I use regular search engines to find dark web sites?
A: No, traditional search engines do not index dark web sites. You must know the specific .onion addresses or use directories available on the dark web.
Q: How can I access the dark web without Tor?
A: While Tor is the most common method, there are other tools like I2P or VPNs that can facilitate access. However, Tor remains the safest option for users new to the dark web.
Conclusion
Knowing how to access the dark web opens up a unique part of the internet, but it should always be approached with caution. By following safety guidelines and using the right tools, users can explore this hidden world while protecting their identity and security.
