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Understanding the Dark Web
Using a VPN and Tor together can address the Tor weaknesses we have just discussed. A VPN encrypts your messages, then passes them to a VPN server that decrypts the message before sending it on to its final destination. In addition, the VPN server replaces the IP address in the decrypted message. This makes it look like the message originated at the VPN server instead of at your device.
However, identities are still not completely anonymous after accessing the TOR browser. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and websites can detect whenever anyone uses TOR because TOR node IPs are public. To browse on TOR safely and privately, users must employ a VPN or TOR Bridges.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software to access, making it a somewhat mysterious and often misunderstood aspect of online browsing. Many seek to know how do you find the dark web for various reasons, such as privacy, research, or other interests.
Dark Web Websites
Accessing the Dark Web
A VPN also helps protect your privacy by preventing your ISP from monitoring your connection. I recommend choosing a premium VPN with a verified no-logs policy that’s based in a privacy-friendly country and offers high-level encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Remember to connect to a VPN server before launching the Tor browser for maximum security.
If you’re curious about how do you find the dark web, here are some steps to safely explore this hidden part of the internet:
Next to a VPN, an antivirus is one of the most important dark web tools. Hence, several dark web pages contain harmful elements, such as child pornography and malware. Another way to access the dark web is using NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN. The Tor project recommends the Onion Browser, which we’re using for this tutorial. We recommend sticking to the Onion Browser, as other Tor browser apps on the AppStore may be fake or contain viruses that will infect your device.
- Although you will find mostly illegal and criminal sites, some of them are surely something we would not want to miss.
- Pirate Bay, a BitTorrent site that law enforcement officials have repeatedly shut down, is alive and well there.
- But it’s equally possible people will gladly accept more surveillance and less privacy in exchange for the illusion of safety and security.
- They do this through using “crawlers”, sometimes also known as “spiders” or “robots”.
- Millions of regular internet users access private databases such as email inboxes and credit card accounts daily.
It’s important to note that just because this type of content isn’t on the surface doesn’t mean it’s nefarious or has ill intent. A lot of the time, this content isn’t indexed because it includes pages that are meant to be hidden to protect consumer privacy, such as those that require login credentials. The internet is home to billions of websites — an estimated 1.7 billion to be exact, although that number changes every day as new sites are made and others are deleted. Your daily internet activity likely falls within the publicly available and readily accessible portion of the internet (otherwise known as the surface web).
Many also conflate the deep and dark web, which are entirely different in structure. The internet’s searchable and unsearchable areas can be divided into three main buckets. It may not be illegal to access the dark web, but doing so comes with considerable risks. The dark web is a place where stumbling into the wrong place (including illegal places) is easy to do. The dark web is infamous for illicit underground dark web marketplaces selling contraband across international borders. The Silk Road rose to notoriety in 2011 after a longform article was featured on the then popular site, Gawker.
- Download Tor Browser: To access the dark web, you need the Tor Browser, which allows for anonymous communication. It also enables users to reach .onion websites that are not accessible via standard browsers.
- Install the Browser: Follow the installation instructions specific to your operating system. Ensure you download the Tor Browser only from the official Tor Project website to avoid malicious versions.
- Connect to Tor: Open the Tor Browser and connect to the Tor network. This process may take some time as it establishes a secure connection.
- Explore .onion Links: Use dedicated directories and forums to find .onion sites. These links typically cannot be found through regular search engines. Some popular directories include The Hidden Wiki, Dark Web Link, and others.
Adding MFA can help keep others out of your account even if your username and password are leaked on the dark web. Some accounts automatically require MFA, but others offer it as an optional feature. You can check to see where your information appears with a free dark web scan. And while there might not be a simple way to get your information removed from the dark web, you can take measures to protect your accounts and identity.
Safety Considerations
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an extra layer of security by masking your IP address, making it more difficult for anyone to trace your online activities.
- Be Cautious: Not all content on the dark web is illegal or dangerous, but many sites can expose you to scams, malware, or other threats. Always approach with caution.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Maintain anonymity by never sharing sensitive information such as your real name, address, or financial details.
- Stay Updated: Dark web sites can frequently change or disappear, so staying informed through reliable sources is crucial.
FAQs about the Dark Web
Q1: What is the dark web used for?
A1: The dark web is used for various purposes, including privacy protection, anonymous communication, and accessing restricted information. However, it also has a notorious reputation for illegal activities such as black-market trading.
Q2: Is accessing the dark web illegal?
A2: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities conducted there may be against the law. It is essential to be aware of your country’s laws regarding online activities.
Q3: Can you get in trouble for browsing the dark web?
A3: Simply browsing the dark web is not illegal, as long as you avoid engaging in any illicit activities. However, be vigilant about the content you access and the information you share.
Q4: How do you safely find information on the dark web?
A4: Utilize trustworthy sources and directories, follow safety precautions such as using a VPN, and avoid suspicious sites that may compromise your security.
Conclusion
Navigating the dark web can be a daunting experience, but with the proper tools and precautions, you can explore safely. Understanding how do you find the dark web is the first step to demystifying this hidden corner of the internet. Always prioritize your safety and stay informed as you venture into this largely uncharted territory.
