This is not a request, it’s a prerequisite, and this is done through a special web browser called, surprisingly enough, TOR. As long as there’s a demand for the ability to privately browse the internet and, more importantly, host websites anonymously, the deep web will exist. 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 use the widest definition of the deep web, then it’s a vast ocean of websites.
Many people, including researchers, are surprised to learn that what they consider the internet is actually just the tip of the iceberg and only accounts for a percentage of all the data online. 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.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to access the dark web safely and securely.
Step 2
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and are only accessible through specialized software. It is often used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, it also has legitimate uses, such as providing a platform for whistleblowers and journalists to communicate securely.
Tor websites are located at this far end of the deep web, which are deemed the “dark web” and are only accessible by an anonymous browser. The deep web rests below whats dark web the surface and accounts for approximately 90% of all websites. This would be the part of an iceberg beneath the water, much larger than the surface web.
Tor And The Onion Browser
In some cases, this is because they would be in danger if their identity became known – for example in countries where the government forbids a free press or where there is political censorship. Searches or messages sent via the Tor browser do not go directly to their intended destination. Instead, they are relayed through “nodes,” which are other computers how to surf the dark web operated by Tor users. At each node, a layer of encryption is taken off and the message is then sent on to the next. Each node knows the identity of the previous node and the one that comes next, but does not know the others in the chain. Therefore it’s extremely difficult to track a message’s entire journey or to work out where it started and who sent it.
A logless VPN, which doesn’t store any traffic logs nor session logs is highly preferable. Traffic logs are a bigger concern than session logs, but neither are good. So, if you want to know how to access the dark web safely, you need to understand that the vast majority of the dark web, or dark net, is only accessible through the Tor browser. It’s like an iceberg – The visible tip above water, known as the “surface web” represents the familiar, searchable content. But lurking beneath lies the expansive, mysterious “deep web” or“dark net” – the gigantic submerged part that remains invisible to standard searches. It is technically not illegal to access the dark web through the Tor browser.
Whether you are accessing your email account, private backups, or your credit card statements, that data is stored on the deep web. Due to the value of the private data that is stored on the deep web, it is vital that it is always secured extremely well using encryption. Notorious ransomware groups are the ones that use onion.ly links most often. This is because when a victim’s computer is infected by ransomware, attackers demand ransom through dark websites.
Do I Need A VPN If I Access The Dark Web On My Phone?
How to Access the Dark Web
To access the dark web, you will need to use the Tor browser. Tor is a free, open-source software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing your internet connection through a series of volunteer-run servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
- Download and install the Tor browser from the official website.
- Launch the Tor browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- Once connected, you can use the Tor browser to access dark web websites. These websites will have a .onion extension.
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
The dark web can be a dangerous place, and it is important to take precautions to protect yourself. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address.
- Do not use your real name or any personal information when creating accounts or interacting with others.
- Be wary of any websites or individuals that ask for personal information or payment.
- Use antivirus software to protect your computer from malware and other threats.
- Regularly update your operating system, web browser, and other software to ensure that you have the latest security patches.
FAQs
Can I access the dark web on my phone?
Who controls the dark web?
The dark web is also unregulated, meaning that it is run and upheld by a vast network of individuals around the world. This network contains thousands of volunteers who operate proxy servers to route dark web requests.
Yes, you can access the dark web on your phone using the Tor browser. However, it is not recommended as mobile devices are more vulnerable to attacks.
- And just as an onion has many layers, Tor has many levels of encryption.
- However, it’s worth noting that DuckDuckGo may display fewer dark web search results than other search engines.
- Many dark web websites contain only information rather than the ability to buy or sell something.
- Launched in 2011, it is known to be one of the first online platforms of the dark web.
- Finding out whether your data has been breached is a complicated process.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, it is not illegal to access the dark web. However, some activities on the dark web are illegal, and you could be breaking the law if you engage in them.
Can I be traced on the dark web?
It is difficult to trace someone on the dark web, but it is not impossible. Using a VPN and taking other precautions can help protect your anonymity.
Can I use my regular email on the dark web?
No, it is not recommended to use your regular email on the dark web. Instead, create a new email account specifically for use on the dark web.
What should I do if I suspect I have been hacked?
If you suspect that you have been hacked, disconnect from the internet immediately and run a virus scan. Change all of your passwords and contact a professional for further assistance.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be a useful tool for research, communication, and privacy. However, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your information. By using the Tor browser, a VPN, and taking other security measures, you can browse the dark web safely and securely.
What makes a website illegal?
If your website doesn't include a privacy policy, you could be breaking federal law. If your website isn't *GDPR compliant, then you could be breaking international law. Not to be all “gloom and doom,” but that's a pretty big deal.
