People often use the dark web to keep their online activity anonymous. And this increased protection is what can motivate cybercriminals to use the platform for illegal activity. The dark web and its browsing aren’t considered illegal; it’s a place where people communicate anonymously without official government surveillance. Sites on the Dark Web are safely accessed by using dedicated software. The TOR Browser uses complex algorithms to anonymize a site’s IP address. It is imperative to download the browser from the TOR Projects dedicated site and no other.
The dark web is a mysterious and often misunderstood part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. While it is known for being a hub of illegal activity, it also has legitimate uses such as protecting the privacy of journalists and activists. If you are curious about exploring the dark web, here is a guide on how to find it:
You need to know exactly what you are trying to look for, how to look for it, and where. You have definitely heard there is a deep side to the internet where not everyone can access it. I opened up the HiddenWiki and tried to pick the most interesting sites I could find. Since this post is already bordering age appropriate content, I’m not going to link to actual websites, only try to share my own experience. Recently, it has been said that many Darknet users are switching to Monero since it’s a 100% private coin (unlike Bitcoin). TOR network was initially created by the US military to communicate anonymously.
How Does Tor Work?
1. Use a Tor Browser
The most common way to access the dark web is through a Tor browser. Tor stands for The Onion Router and is a free software that enables anonymous communication. By using a Tor browser, your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through a series of servers, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
Set Up An Email Alias To Protect Your Main Inbox
Steps to download and install a Tor browser:
- Go to the Tor Project website.
- Download the Tor browser for your operating system.
- Install the browser on your computer.
A handful of dark web search engines that do index .onion sites include NotEvil, Ahmia, Candle, and Torch. Even when using security measures and your own common sense, accessing deep web content still poses a risk. Antivirus will ensure that any viruses or malware downloaded from the dark web are removed. In case you’re wondering how to access the deep web, chances are you already use it daily.
2. Find Dark Web URLs
SecureDrop
Once you have installed a Tor browser, you will need to find URLs that lead to dark web websites. Unlike the surface web, dark web URLs are not indexed by search engines and are not easy to come by. However, there are a few ways to find them:
Is Tor Browser safer than Google?
In conclusion, while Google Chrome may be a more convenient option for everyday browsing, Tor Browser is the clear winner when it comes to privacy and security. By using a browser that prioritizes these features, users can protect their personal information and browse the internet with peace of mind.
Ways to find dark web URLs:
- Visit dark web forums and communities where users share links.
- Use dark web search engines like DuckDuckGo or NotEvil.
- Check out directories of dark web websites.
- The dark web lies within the deep web and can be defined as the part of the deep web that not only isn’t indexed by search engines, but also requires specialized tools like Tor Browser to access.
- However, it’s important to choose a reputable company when running a free scan — as some services may collect and sell any contact information that you provide.
- You’ll also encounter marketplaces where users sell or purchase everything from illicit drugs to services requiring upfront payment.
- Ponzi schemes, identity theft, credit card fraud, and other financial scams happen there, so if you fall victim to dark web scams, you can suffer significant financial loss and personal harm.
3. Exercise Caution
It is important to exercise caution when exploring the dark web as it is known for being a breeding ground for illegal activities. Here are some tips to stay safe:
Is DuckDuckGo a Tor?
DuckDuckGo is the default search engine in Tor Browser. DuckDuckGo does not track its users nor does it store any data about user searches. Learn more about DuckDuckGo privacy policy.
The dark web news site Deep.Dot.Web teems with stories of buyers who have been arrested or jailed for attempted purchases. The dark web has flourished thanks to bitcoin, the crypto-currency that enables two parties to conduct a trusted transaction without knowing each other’s identity. “Bitcoin has been a major factor in the growth of the dark web, and the dark web has been a big factor in the growth of bitcoin,” says Tiquet.
Tips for staying safe on the dark web:
- Never share personal information.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Use a VPN in addition to a Tor browser for added security.
- Be aware of the laws in your country regarding dark web activity.
While the terms dark web and deep web are often used interchangeably, they are two very distinct concepts. That’s most likely why the explorers put their blogs up on the dark web instead of on the surface web. It can save a version of a web page that will always be online even if the original post disappears.
Remember, the dark web can be a dangerous place, so proceed with caution and always prioritize your safety and privacy.
Can Google search the dark web?
To find out what info is on the dark web, Google uses a third-party vendor. This vendor has access to databases that show what content is currently available on the dark web.
