Many people have heard of the mysterious dark web, a hidden part of the internet that is not easily accessible through traditional search engines. While the dark web has gained a reputation for being a hub of illicit activity, it is also home to legitimate websites and services that can be useful to those seeking anonymity and privacy online. If you are interested in checking out the dark web but don’t know where to start, here are some tips to help you get on safely.
Quick Guide: How To Access The Dark Web Safely?
What is the Dark Web?
Dark Web Links To Visit For The Tor Network Experience
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and requires special software to access. It is often used by individuals who want to remain anonymous online, as well as by criminals looking to engage in illegal activities. Despite its shady reputation, the dark web can also be a valuable resource for whistleblowers, journalists, and activists who need to communicate securely.
Getting On the Dark Web Safely
- Use a VPN: Before accessing the dark web, it is important to protect your identity by using a virtual private network (VPN) to mask your IP address.
- Download the Tor Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor browser, which allows users to browse anonymously and access hidden websites.
- Be cautious: While exploring the dark web, it’s essential to exercise caution and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files.
- Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the latest security threats and best practices for staying safe on the dark web.
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. Learn more about our various degree and certification programs today by requesting more information. Accessing the dark web is not necessarily riskier than browsing the surface or deep web.
Step 2/3: Set Up VPN
FAQs
The big downside is that your ISP will know you are using Tor, which is cause for concern in some places and will put many people off using this method. In this instance, too, it is important to use a logless VPN and pay with Bitcoin if you can to stay anonymous. The VPN over Tor technique is also susceptible to an end-to-end timing attack, though it’s highly unlikely.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web is against the law.
Can I be tracked while on the dark web?
Is it safer to use Tor with a VPN?
In short, it's much safer to use Tor with a VPN. Not all VPNs offer Tor features in their product. Out of the options we tested, NordVPN had the best overall functionality – and it includes a solid 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can see it for yourself with no risk involved.
While the dark web provides a higher degree of anonymity compared to the surface web, it is still possible to be tracked if proper precautions are not taken. Using a VPN and the Tor browser can help protect your identity.
- While the Dark Web has not fundamentally changed, it has gone even darker under the scrutiny of law enforcement.
- Scientific journals often put their articles behind a paywall or charge high fees for access, but Sci-Hub offers open-access to read or download research papers.
- Technically, the dark web is a niche or subsection within the deep web.
The dark web is also used by whistleblowers and by people living under authoritarian regimes to break through firewalls, and protect their identities while sharing sensitive information. More seriously, free VPNs – particularly those offered as standalone services – sometimes make money by selling your data to third parties. These aren’t the type of products you should use to keep you safe while exploring the dark web.
With these tips in mind, you can safely explore the dark web and discover the hidden corners of the internet without putting yourself at risk. Remember to always prioritize your online security and privacy when venturing into this mysterious realm.
Can you get Tor on Iphone?
Can I run Tor Browser on an iOS device? We recommend iOS app Onion Browser which relies on Orbot for a secure connection to Tor. Onion Browser and Orbot are open source, use Tor routing, and are developed by someone who works closely with the Tor Project.