In this digital age, where smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, it’s crucial to understand that there is more to the internet than what meets the eye. While most of us use our iPhones for browsing the web, social media, and online shopping, there exists a hidden side of the internet known as the Dark Web, which can also be accessed using an iPhone.
NordVPN’s Double VPN routes your traffic through two of its VPN servers, and this adds a second layer of encryption and changes your IP address twice. These specialized servers are easily identified in NordVPN apps by the heading Onion Over VPN. Instead, you install the overlay network package, which then runs in your regular browser. Still, it’s important to note that Freenet doesn’t offer any dedicated overlay network apps. Fortunately, if you use the settings above, you’ll be as safe as possible for browsing the dark web on an iOS device.
What is the Dark Web?
The Dark Web refers to a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and cannot be accessed through traditional browsers such as Safari or Chrome. It operates on encrypted networks and requires specific software or configurations to access. The anonymity provided by the Dark Web has made it a haven for cybercriminals, illegal activities, and a marketplace for various illicit goods and services.
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Accessing the Dark Web on an iPhone
Contrary to popular belief, accessing the Dark Web on an iPhone is not as straightforward as downloading an app from the App Store. Due to Apple’s strict policies and security measures, accessing the Dark Web requires additional steps and caution.
Step 1: Install a Secure and Trusted VPN
Our research team uses this site to find trustworthy .onion links to dark web forums, marketplaces, cryptocurrency exchanges, and more. There’s an abundance of phishing websites, scams, and criminals actively searching for new users vulnerable to exposure. To access the dark web using a VPN, we recommend using the Onion over VPN method, which involves connecting to a VPN server before connecting to the Tor Browser.
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A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is crucial when accessing the Dark Web as it ensures your online activity is encrypted and provides an additional layer of anonymity. Choose a reputable VPN service that offers strong encryption protocols and does not keep logs of user activity.
Step 2: Download a Tor Browser
The Tor Browser is often the preferred choice for accessing the Dark Web due to its ability to mask IP addresses and route internet traffic through multiple relays. Luckily, there are several Tor Browser apps available on the App Store that can be downloaded on your iPhone.
Step 3: Connect to the Tor Network
Once you have installed the Tor Browser on your iPhone, launch the app and connect to the Tor network. This step might take a few moments as the app establishes a secure connection. It is crucial to note that the Tor network is slower compared to traditional internet connections due to its routing mechanisms.
The Dark Side of the Dark Web
While the Dark Web can be intriguing for some, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with exploring this hidden side of the internet. The Dark Web is notorious for hosting illegal activities such as drug trafficking, hacking services, counterfeit goods, and even human trafficking.
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Law enforcement agencies around the world actively monitor the Dark Web, making it increasingly dangerous for individuals engaging in illicit activities. Additionally, cybercriminals often lurk within these networks, waiting for an opportunity to exploit unsuspecting users.
Staying Safe and Secure
If you choose to delve into the Dark Web using your iPhone, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and security. Here are a few tips to help you stay protected:
1. Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your accounts have unique and strong passwords to minimize the risk of being hacked.
2. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Be cautious when clicking on links within the Dark Web, as they may lead to malicious websites or phishing attempts.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but many people neglect this simple yet critical step. Regular updates often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities in your system, making it harder for cybercriminals to exploit. Whether it’s your operating system, your browser, or the Tor software you’ll be using to access the Dark Web, make sure everything is up to date. Antivirus software and firewalls are another essential component of your safety toolkit.
3. Regularly Update Your iPhone: Keeping your iPhone’s software up to date is essential to protect against potential vulnerabilities.
Due to its decentralized structure, there is no real way to “shut down” the deep net, just like you can’t really shut down the regular internet. If you need a great Tor VPN, I recommend ExpressVPN — all its servers allow Tor traffic, it has excellent security and privacy features, and it provides fast browsing speeds. You also get strong security features, as the VPN has RAM-only servers, perfect forward secrecy, an audited no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection. But I think it’s a shame how it’s missing WebRTC and IPv6 leak protection (ExpressVPN has full leak protection) — still, I never experienced any leaks in my tests. Surfshark is also really user-friendly, as its apps are all intuitive and make it very simple to find and connect to servers.
4. Practice Anonymity: Avoid sharing personal information or using real names while navigating the Dark Web.
Conclusion
The Dark Web is an intriguing and mysterious realm of the internet that can be accessed on an iPhone with the right tools and precautions. However, it’s crucial to remember that this hidden side of technology comes with significant risks. Proceeding with caution, being aware of the potential dangers, and prioritizing your safety is essential when exploring the Dark Web.
