Tor
You don’t have to follow these precautions before using your VPN every time, though you can do so. Dark web sites, on the other hand, almost always use the .onion TLD. Without it, private information like court records and business intranets (the backend side of things that only employees can access) would be out in the open. A VPN also changes your IP address before you connect to the Tor Network, making it even more difficult for anyone to figure out your real IP address. This means you can use ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, Lightway, for the best possible speeds when using Tor to browse the dark web. ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN to use when browsing the dark web.
Remember, being engulfed in the ugly secrets of the Dark Web is as dangerous as drowning in an ocean. If you are interested in gaining knowledge on the cybersecurity domain, check out this Ethical Hacking Certification from Intellipaat. To be sure your activity on the dark web is protected, using a reputable VPN that doesn’t keep logs is recommended.
Understanding the Black Web
A vast number of URLs have domain endings such as “.onion”, which means that the URLs are only accessible by Tor users. The same anonymity that publishers enjoy on the dark web can be utilized by users who want to read the available information. Again, people who live in countries where the freedom of the internet is limited, for example in China, can really benefit from using Tor. You might have heard scary stories about illegal stuff on the Dark Web, like drug trading and human trafficking. Some legitimate websites and forums offer information and resources that could be restricted where you live.
Now, I’d like to recommend NordVPN, which offers strong security features like 256-bit encryption, and it also has an easy-to-use app. It is therefore highly recommended to use VPN software to get onto the dark web safely. A VPN will encrypt your traffic and hide your IP address, making it impossible for anyone to track you online. Yes, it is safe to access the dark web on your iPhone if you use a VPN and access it for good things. Despite claiming to offer privacy, they can track what you do on the darknet and potentially sell that info to anyone interested.
Anybody wanting to connect to the dark web on an iPhone or iPad is advised that there is no official Tor app at the moment. Instead, Tor Project recommends iOS users to connect using the iOS Onion Browser app. It is vital that you only ever download the Tor browser from the official Tor website because there are malicious versions circulating online that contain malware. If you download Tor from anywhere but the Tor website, it is possible that you could become infected.
The term black web often refers to a combination of the dark web and the deep web. While the deep web encompasses all parts of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines, the dark web is a small portion of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers.
Should you decide to access the dark web from your mobile phone, I highly encourage you to protect yourself with a VPN. While Tor is an open-source project, your activity can still be traced back to your IP address. The best way to prevent your browsing activity from alerting authorities is to avoid sites with illegal activity altogether — another reason to only visit sites you’ve researched and trust. Hackers on the dark web can easily access your personal data using trojans, phishing, and other types of fraudulent websites or programs. Sometimes all it takes is a simple misclick before all the information stored on your computer gets leaked.
Differences Between the Deep Web and the Dark Web
To better comprehend how to get on the black web, it is vital to understand the distinctions between these segments:
- Deep Web: Contains private databases, email accounts, and sensitive information.
- Dark Web: Accessible only with specific software and configurations, often hosting illegal activities and illicit marketplaces.
How to Access the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web requires some specific steps and precautions. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get on the black web securely:
- This browser, often known as The Onion Router, is a free and open-source program that allows users to browse the internet anonymously.
- If you download Tor from anywhere but the Tor website, it is possible that you could become infected.
- This anonymity, coupled with access difficulties and a high barrier to entry, facilitates all manner of illicit activities such as drug and human trafficking, weapons deals, and money laundering.
- If you plan to make a purchase on a dark net marketplace or dark web commerce sites, you’ll need to create a fake identity.
1. Install a Secure Browser
The most common method to access the dark web is through the Tor browser, designed to anonymize your browsing activity.
- Download the Tor browser from the official website.
- Install it on your device following the instructions provided.
2. Configure Security Settings
Before diving into the dark web, ensure that your security settings are optimized:
- Adjust privacy settings within the Tor browser.
- Consider using a VPN for an added layer of anonymity.
3. Navigate to Dark Web Websites
Websites on the dark web use specific domain endings, such as .onion. You can find directories of these sites:
- Visit forums or trusted sources that list .onion links.
- Be cautious; many links can lead to illegal content or scams.
Safety Precautions
Accessing the dark web carries inherent risks. To ensure a safer experience, follow these guidelines:
- Never share personal information.
- Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.
- Be wary of scams and phishing attempts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including:
- Forums and discussions on numerous topics
- Marketplaces for illegal goods and services
- Whistleblowing platforms
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
While simply accessing the dark web is not illegal, engaging with illegal activities or content can lead to severe legal consequences.
What are the risks of using the dark web?
Risks associated with the dark web include:
- Exposure to illegal content
- Potential for cybercrime
- Compromise of personal data
Conclusion
Understanding how to get on the black web requires knowledge of the necessary tools and significant caution. While there are legitimate uses for the dark web, such as privacy protection and freedom of speech advocacy, users should remain aware of the potential dangers it poses.
