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Understanding the Black Web
What’s known as the dark web exists within the deep web; it’s an area of the internet that is only accessible by users who have a Tor browser installed. In general, most average internet users will never need to access content on the dark web, although it is perfectly legal to use Tor. Dark web monitoring refers to the process of searching for and tracking down specific information found on the dark web. It can even be infuriating to see that information brokers’ activities aren’t even illegal because they claim to be using information that already exists in the public domain. They target the illicit sale of personal data, malware and cybercrime tool development and sales, as well as ‘cybercrime-as-a-service’. “The goal is to identify, disrupt and prosecute cybercriminals domestically, and through international law enforcement partnerships,” an AFP spokesperson says.
The *black web*, often confused with the *deep web*, encompasses a part of the internet that requires specific software to access, providing anonymity to its users. Venture into it with caution, as it hosts both legal and illegal activities.
If you want to be 100% sure you won’t install any malware on your PC while on the dark web, you can use a virtual machine (VM). In short, a virtual machine is an emulation of an actual PC using your existing computer or the cloud. So we do not recommend you do this if you just want to visit the dark web once or twice. If a hacker manages to get into your system via the dark web, all of this information is in danger. Comparatively, portable operating systems like Tails, Whonix, ZeusGuard, and Qubes OS prevent unwarranted data collection and surveillance, limiting the data at risk in case of a breach.
Well, the word “dark web” has a sinister ring to it, and for a good reason. The dark web is a section of the internet containing hidden websites that are not accessible through standard web browsers. So instead, you’ll have to rely on browsers and search engines to find these sites. The internet most of us use daily — and probably assumed until now is the entirety of the internet — is actually what’s known as the open web or surface web. It is the format of the web we’re all used to, composed of open pages easily accessed by traditional search engines on any browser.
To get an idea of how your business is doing overall when it comes to online security, take our free, online Cybersecurity Risk Assessment. Once you’re done, reach out to us to learn how to improve your score. Create a separate email address you can use for logging in to unimportant accounts. If one of these less important sites experiences a data breach, your primary email won’t be the one floating around on the Dark Web. Proton VPN has decent connection speeds and has tools for giving long-distance connections a bump.
After extensive tests, we’ve found NordVPN to be best suited for accessing the dark web on a phone as it’s mobile-friendly, secure, and offers specialized dark web servers. McAfee provides everyday internet users with the tools they need to surf safely and confidently. Basically, it’s a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. As an average internet user, you won’t come across the dark web since you need a special browser to access it. It’s certainly not something you need to stress about in your day-to-day browsing, and you shouldn’t let it scare you off the internet.
Why Access the Black Web?
The technology behind this anonymous connection is known as “onion routing,” which utilizes a layered approach to obscure data and protect users’ locations on the network. Like I2P, Freenet is a self-contained network within the network that can’t be used to access sites on the public web. It can only be used to access the content uploaded to the Freenet, which is a peer-to-peer distributed data store. Once you upload something, it stays there indefinitely even if you stop using Freenet, so long as it is popular. Tor over VPN requires you to place some trust in your VPN provider but not your ISP, and is best if you want to access .onion websites. VPN over Tor requires you to place trust in your ISP but not your VPN and is best if you want to avoid bad Tor exit nodes.
Downloading the Tor Browser is no more complicated than downloading Google Chrome. The basic code of the browser is actually based on Mozilla’s Firefox browser, so anyone who has spent time with that classic browser will be well at home here. Additionally, check your antivirus software is updated and working on your device. It will be more difficult to intercept your data, track your internet activities, or infect your computer in this manner. It is quite easy to gain access to the dark web, but it is also very easy to fall into problems as a result of it. As a result, it’s critical always to consider your online security and privacy.
- However, it’s important to note that the Dark Web is not safe and secure, and users should be cautious when browsing and avoid engaging in illegal activities.
- Also unlike Google, the black web search engine doesn’t track your search data, habits or information to improve an advertisement program, meaning you can browse anonymously.
- As discussed above, the dark web contains both interesting and terrible content.
- If you have an understanding or interest in Bitcoin, then this is the website for you.
- On Tor, you can type in any URL you’d like to visit, including .onion domains on the dark web.
- If you can’t get a personal recommendation from someone you trust, verify the URL from multiple different sources.
Many individuals may wish to explore the black web for various reasons, including:
- Anonymity – Ensuring personal information remains confidential.
- Research – Exploring topics that may not be available on the surface web.
- Free Speech – Accessing information in countries with heavy censorship.
Getting Started: How to Get on the Black Web
To successfully navigate the *black web*, follow these steps:
Get A Reliable VPN
1. Download and Install Tor Browser
The *Tor Browser* is essential for accessing the black web. This browser allows users to surf the internet anonymously.
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor Browser compatible with your operating system.
- Install the browser by following the provided instructions.
2. Configure Your Connection
Once installed, you’ll need to configure your connection:
- Open the Tor Browser.
- Select “Connect” to establish a connection to the Tor network.
- Wait for the browser to connect, indicating your access to the black web.
3. Ensure Security Measures
Before exploring the black web, it’s prudent to consider your security:
- Use a VPN – This adds another layer of encryption.
- Avoid sharing personal information to maintain anonymity.
- Disable scripts in the Tor Browser settings to enhance security.
4. Explore .onion Websites
Once connected to the Tor network, you can access websites with the *.onion* domain:
- Use directories like Ahmia or Hidden Wiki to find links to various services.
- Be cautious of the sites you visit; research their credibility.
Staying Safe on the Black Web
Engaging with the black web involves risks. Consider these safety tips:
- Be Wary of Scams – Many sites may attempt to defraud users.
- Avoid downloading files unless you trust the source.
- Do not engage in illegal activities, as this can lead to serious consequences.
FAQs
What should I not do on the black web?
Never share personal information, participate in illegal activities, or download unknown files.
Is it illegal to access the black web?
Accessing the black web is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities is prosecutable.
Can I be traced while using the black web?
While the Tor network provides anonymity, complete safety cannot be guaranteed. Always prioritize your security measures.
Conclusion
Understanding *how to get on the black web* requires knowledge and caution. Equip yourself with appropriate tools and safety practices to navigate this hidden part of the internet responsibly.