Do I Have To Use A VPN?
A web browser used to access the Dark Web is designed to work with the Tor network to browse both the Dark Web and normal websites anonymously, without leaking user information. This ”Tor browser” is the most well-known implementation of onion routing used on the Dark Web. There are many ways to access the Dark Web, including one technique known as onion routing. Onion routing uses multi-layered encryption to create anonymous communication over a computer network.
Understanding the Dark Web
TheHiddenWiki is an example of a TOR website directory which you can access through a normal browser as well. Keep in mind that some sites have already been taken offline so not all of them will work. One of the main resources for navigating through websites on the Darknet is through directories. There are different “privacy networks”, all composed of individual computers allowing them to create a “decentralized web”. There are many different privacy networks, however, in this post, we will focus only on the most popular one – the TOR network. This is probably going to be one of the longest posts I’ve written on 99Bitcoins, but also the most interesting of them all.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines. It exists on an encrypted network and can only be accessed using specific software, configurations, or authorization. For those asking, how do I get to the dark web safely and securely, here are the key steps to follow.
Why Visit the Dark Web?
SecureDrop is an open-source submission system that nonprofit organizations (NGOs), journalists, and news organizations can use to share and receive sensitive files securely. It’s used by 50+ news organizations, including ABC, Bloomberg News, CBC, and The New York Times. ProPublica has a clearnet site, but its dark web version won’t see your IP address, so you get better privacy. You can also use its .onion link via the Tor network to access the site in restrictive countries, where it might be unavailable. You can also get a free encrypted email address with 50 MB of storage, but I recommend using ProtonMail instead because it’s available on the dark web and its free plan comes with up to 1 GB of storage. This isn’t just a matter of heading to “darkweb.com” and having a snoop — you’ll need specific software and a dedicated browser.
Before venturing into this hidden part of the internet, it’s essential to understand why people may want to visit the dark web:
- Privacy: Users may seek anonymity for various reasons, including political activism, journalistic research, or personal privacy.
- Information Access: Certain information may be restricted or censored on the standard web.
- Marketplaces: Various goods and services are available, some of which are illegal.
Recently, people have started identifying the dark web as the hotbed of criminal activity, and there’s a reason for that. As for how much dark web content actually constitutes illicit material? A study conducted by the University of Surrey in 2019 found that harmful dark web listings accounted for around 60% of all listings. You would, of course, assume that using a VPN to access the dark web would be a no-brainer, but it’s not quite as simple as that.
Surfshark also offers a complete security package if you choose to go with Surfshark One or One+ subscriptions. Both of them include antivirus, webcam protection, and real-time data breach alerts on top of the Surfshark VPN package. I still believe that going into Tor without dark web links at hand is a fool’s errand. But some people insist on search engines, and several Tor engines exist.
The term dark web first appeared in print in a 2009 newspaper article describing these criminal applications. To connect to a hidden service, a Tor client queries the directory service for the service descriptor. It randomly chooses an introduction point from the list in the service descriptor.
So essentially, you’re looking for onion websites (links ending with .onion), and I’ll hook you up. Although all these steps may seem excessive, always remember that once your information is on the dark web, it’s almost impossible to remove it altogether. Websites on the darknet don’t last long and are reincarnated often under a different name. As such, bad actors can replicate your data multiple times for profit. Looking for lists of best forums related to hacking and what to get their .onion addresses? Search the web for lists of .onion sites and you’ll find some places to start across the first results you will find .deepweblinks and .thehiddenwiki.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
To answer the question, how do I get to the dark web, follow these steps carefully:
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Download the Tor Browser
The primary way to access the dark web is through the Tor (The Onion Router) browser. This software anonymizes your internet activity and allows you to access .onion websites.
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Install and Configure
Once downloaded, install the Tor browser. Ensure that you configure it correctly for maximum security to avoid exposing your identity.
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Use a VPN
For an additional layer of security, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). This helps mask your IP address and encrypts your traffic.
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Accessing Dark Web Links
After setting up the Tor browser, you can navigate to specific dark web links or directories that compile .onion sites. Ensure you are entering links from trustworthy sources.
Safety Precautions
When venturing into the dark web, prioritize your safety. Consider the following precautions:
- Stay Anonymous: Do not share personal information or use your regular social media profiles.
- Beware of Scams: The dark web is rife with scams; exercise caution when purchasing anything.
- Use Secure Payments: If making purchases, use anonymous cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
FAQs
Q: Is the dark web illegal?
A: While accessing the dark web itself is legal, many activities conducted there, such as selling illegal drugs or weapons, are against the law.
Q: Can I be tracked on the dark web?
A: While the dark web offers anonymity, it is not entirely foolproof. Authorities can potentially track users if proper precautions aren’t taken.
- Researchers Daniel Moore and Thomas Rid of King’s College in London classified the contents of 2,723 live dark web sites over a five-week period in 2015 and found that 57% host illicit material.
- 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.
- It is also one of the top recommendations in our list of secure browsers.
Q: What type of content can I find on the dark web?
A: The dark web hosts a range of materials, including markets, forums, and information resources, both legal and illegal. Caution is necessary.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web requires careful preparation and awareness of the risks involved. By asking how do I get to the dark web and following the necessary precautions, users can navigate this complex digital landscape more safely.
