Comparison Of The Best VPNs For Accessing The Dark Web In 2024
Understanding the Dark Web
If you’ve followed the news in the last two decades, you’ve probably heard stories and seen headlines about the deep web or dark web. However, you might have found yourself asking, What is the deep web? As news outlets rarely concern themselves with explaining exactly what it is besides being a place where you can anonymously acquire illegal goods. While you may want to access the black market or encrypted email services, you must remember that safety should be paramount.
The dark web is also a dynamic and ever-changing space, with new sites and services constantly emerging and others being taken down by law enforcement or other actors. Therefore, any estimate of its size is likely to be imprecise and quickly outdated. Most people know about the dark web within the context of stolen identity and personal information. Since the dark web is anonymous and unregulated, it has become a marketplace for selling stolen passwords, IDs, and other forms of private information. For all the illegal activity and secrecy that takes place on Tor, you may be surprised to learn its origin story.
Not all websites on the dark web are legitimate, and some may pose a risk to your security. Stick to secure and reputable websites to avoid any potential threats. Next, navigate to the onion icon again and select “Security Settings.” Ensure you check the “Safest” setting to avoid any security issues while browsing the dark web.
- Despite there being no official iOS app built by Tor Project, they have endorsed Onion Browser—an open source Tor browser.
- Tor is the best onion browser because it hides your network traffic with Tor routing by constantly changes your IP, and leaves no traces to reveal your identity.
- As the Dark Web operates on the principle of anonymity, it is essential to take certain precautions to ensure your online activities remain untraceable.
- Facebook’s encrypted site, located at facebookcore, is a feature-rich method of accessing the social network using end-to-end encryption.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. Accessing this hidden layer requires specific software and methods, making it a unique environment for both privacy-focused individuals and those looking for illicit activities.
Using a special browser known as The Onion Router (Tor), users can explore these hidden sites and engage in both legal and illicit activities under the cover of an anonymous IP address. Here’s a look at how the dark web works and the many ways in which people use it, both legally and illegally. The dark web is the part of the internet that’s not indexed by public search engines like Google. It’s made up of forums, marketplaces, and websites you can’t find with a Google search and requires specialized software to access, such as the Tor Browser.
What You Need for Access
Most of the digital content in the world is not accessible via web search engines. Yes, you can access the dark web on a smartphone, but you’ll need an appropriate browser, like Tor browser for Android or Onion browser for iPhone. Remember that phones can get viruses just as easily as computers, and the chances of getting a virus likely increase when you’re browsing dark web mobile sites, no matter your platform. Since the dark web itself isn’t searchable, many sites help people navigate by acting as modified directories of onion sites.
The experience is reminiscent of searching the web in the late 1990s. Even one of the best search engines, called Grams, returns results that are repetitive and often irrelevant to the query. Link lists like The Hidden Wiki are another option, but even indices also return a frustrating number of timed-out connections and 404 errors. The terms “deep web” and “dark web” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Deep web refers to anything on the internet that is not indexed by and, therefore, accessible via a search engine like Google.
Before learning how to access the dark web, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and knowledge:
The dark web is a hive for criminal activity due to its anonymous nature and the fact that it is extremely hard to track down anybody who accesses it. In fact, research performed at the University of Kent in 2015 revealed that 57% of the dark web hosts illicit material. The dark web is a part of the deep web that can be accessed anonymously using Tor browser.
- Tor Browser: The pivotal tool for accessing the dark web, offering anonymity by routing your connection through multiple servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): This enhances your security, encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address.
- Disabling Scripts: Before accessing dark web sites, it’s advisable to disable JavaScript in your browser to prevent potential vulnerabilities.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Once you have the necessary tools, follow these steps on how to access the dark web:
- Install the Tor Browser: Download the Tor Browser from the official website to ensure you are getting a legitimate version.
- Connect to a VPN: Launch your VPN software and select a server location. This adds an extra layer of security.
- Open Tor Browser: After the installation, open the Tor Browser. It may take a moment to connect to the Tor network.
- Browse the Dark Web: Use specific .onion domains to access websites. Search engines and directories, like DuckDuckGo or Ahmia, can help you find content.
- Stay Safe: Avoid sharing personal information and clicking on suspicious links.
Safety Tips While Exploring
While browsing the dark web, consider the following safety tips:
- Use Secure Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for any accounts.
- Be Wary of Downloads: Files downloaded can contain malware—exercise caution before opening any.
- Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your Tor Browser and any other security tools.
- Don’t Engage in Illegal Activities: Remain aware of the laws in your country regarding your activities online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the dark web illegal?
The dark web itself is not illegal, but many of the activities conducted there can be. It is important to avoid exchanging illegal materials or engaging in unlawful activities.
2. Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
While the Tor network provides anonymity, it does not guarantee complete security. Usage of a VPN in conjunction can further protect your identity.
3. What is a .onion website?
A .onion website is a special domain that can only be accessed over the Tor network, providing anonymity for both the user and the host.
4. Why should I use a VPN with Tor?
A VPN masks your IP address, adding an additional layer of anonymity and security while browsing the dark web.
By understanding how to access the dark web safely, you can explore its vast expanse while minimizing risks. Always prioritize your security and legality when engaging with this hidden part of the internet.
