BBC News (and Other Leading News Sites)
Exploring Websites on the Dark Web
Hidden Answers is a highly popular site on the dark web where you can ask for advice, answer other users’ questions, or simply discuss any topic you like. Think of it like a dark web version of Reddit or Quora, but with complete anonymity. Keybase is a reliable messaging application that is not an email service but is a secure way to share information found on the Tor network with friends and other contacts. Similar to popular messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp, it allows you to send and receive messages securely while keeping your communication confidential. Nicolae has a soft spot for computers and everything tech-related.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It can be accessed using specific software and configurations, commonly through Tor (The Onion Router). This segment of the internet is often associated with both illicit activities and communities advocating for privacy and freedom of speech.
Understanding the Dark Web
Websites on the dark web operate under a veil of anonymity, making it challenging to establish ownership or credibility. These sites are characterized by unique web address formats, typically ending in .onion. Here are some key features:
- If you set up a private and secure network with a group of friends, that could be an example of a darknet.
- The dark web is a part of the internet that’s difficult to access without special software—and can be difficult to navigate once you gain access.
- As such, most of the attention is placed on online marketplaces for drugs, exchanges for stolen data, and other illegal activities when people think of the dark web.
- However, others may be taking advantage of the dark web’s reputation to trick users out of large sums of money.
- The major advantage of using a live OS such as Tails is that, on shut down, the OS wipes itself from the thumb drive you’ve installed it.
The place is as messy and chaotic as you would expect when everyone is anonymous, and a substantial minority are out to scam others. The dark web is a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden, requiring a specific browser—Tor—to access, as explained below. No one really knows the size of the dark web, but most estimates put it at around 5% of the total internet. Again, not all the dark web is used for illicit purposes despite its ominous-sounding name.
- Anonymity: Both users and website operators maintain a high level of privacy.
- Diverse Content: Sites range from forums and marketplaces to whistleblowing platforms and blogs.
- Security Risks: Users may encounter scams, malware, and illegal content.
Your information is sensitive—it’s incredibly easy for hackers or cyber criminals to gain access to your personal or financial information with your knowledge. The deep web is just a secure, back-end platform where you’ll find things like document-sharing sites, your email, and other secure log-in sites. It’s the part of the Internet that doesn’t show up on a standard search page. Their reports track where and what type of your personal and credit information appears online.
So go ahead and explore the dark web, but always exercise caution and good judgment. ProPublica, a five-time Pulitzer Prize-winning news outlet, is now available on the dark web, making it the first major news organisation to do so. With their presence on Tor, ProPublica allows users to remain anonymous and access their content, even in countries with censorship laws.
If you want to use Tor privately, you can use either a VPN or Tor Bridges (Tor nodes that are not publicly indexed). Tor users in the USA, in particular, may want to use a VPN, which will be faster and more reliable. Internet providers and websites can detect when Tor is being used because Tor node IPs are public.
Onion sites are not indexed on the regular surface web or “clearnet.” Unlike regular websites, you can’t search .onion sites using a regular browser, and they’re not registered in a central database. To access .onion sites, you need a private network and browsers — in other words, you need Tor (more below). The Tor Onion Browser is essential for accessing the dark web, designed for user anonymity. Unlike the regular internet, the dark web doesn’t use standard URLs or search engines. Instead, sites have complex .onion addresses, making them difficult to find without the exact URL.
Popular Types of Websites on the Dark Web
A variety of websites can be found in this hidden internet space. Here are some of the most common categories:
- Marketplaces: These are platforms for buying illegal goods, including drugs and hacking tools.
- Forums: Community-driven sites where users discuss various topics ranging from technology to politics.
- Whistleblowing Platforms: Secure portals for individuals to report wrongdoing without fear of retribution.
- Informational Sites: Resources that promote privacy and digital security tips.
How to Access Dark Web Websites
Accessing websites on the dark web requires a few steps to ensure both security and proper connectivity:
- Download Tor: Install the Tor Browser from the official website to begin accessing .onion sites.
- Use a VPN: For an added layer of security, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to anonymize your internet traffic.
- Find Reliable Links: Due to the ephemeral nature of dark web content, utilize directories or trusted forums to discover active websites.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Engaging with websites on the dark web can pose legal challenges. While some content promotes free speech and privacy advocacy, other sites facilitate illegal activities. Here are some considerations:
- Legal Risks: Visiting or interacting with illegal content can lead to serious legal consequences.
- Ethical Implications: Consider the moral aspects of participating in dark web activities, especially regarding privacy and potential harm to others.
FAQs
What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web includes all areas of the internet that are not indexed by search engines, such as databases and password-protected sites. The dark web is a small portion of the deep web that requires specific software to access and is often associated with illicit activities.
Is it safe to browse the dark web?
While browsing the dark web can be relatively safe if proper precautions are taken (like using a VPN and avoiding illegal content), the potential risks of encountering malware and scams remain high.
What types of illegal activities occur on the dark web?
Many websites on the dark web engage in illegal activities such as:
- Drug trafficking
- Weapon sales
- Human trafficking
- Hacking services
Conclusion
Websites on the dark web offer a mix of anonymity, safety, and danger. While they can serve important functions related to freedom of expression and privacy, they also present risks that users must navigate with caution. Understanding the landscape of the dark web is crucial for anyone curious about this hidden aspect of the internet.
