Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for privacy-focused communication.
- Endpoint security programs like Kaspersky Security Cloud are comprehensive to cover both identity monitoring and antivirus defenses.
- In essence, the deep web is made up of any content that isn’t available via an internet search engine, as it hasn’t been indexed.
- The creator of Dark Search is currently working on a way to let dark web users access restricted dark web forums via onion search engine links.
Command Buy-In for Additional Training — Participants noted a need to persuade law enforcement command staff to initiate dark web training and investigations. Command buy-in may be essential to commitments of funding and training time. The workshop participants prioritized needs using a formula that took into account both the perceived importance of a particular need and the perceived likelihood of meeting that need successfully. Yes, it’s possible to access the Dark Web on a mobile device using applications such as Orbot and Orfox for Android, and Onion Browser for iOS.
How Do You Get to the Dark Web?
Although the deep web and the dark web may seem intimidating and dangerous, they’re actually surprisingly simple services to get started with and use. Many use the technology to engage in illicit activities, but there are many legitimate reasons for accessing the deep net, especially in countries with poor digital privacy laws such as the United States. The Silk Road was a marketplace on the dark web that launched in 2011, where you could purchase all sorts of illegal goods. The vast majority of transactions consisted of illegal drugs, but you could also find weapons, personal information, child pornography and stolen credit card details. Allegedly, it was also possible to hire hit men on the site, though it’s never been proven that any of these contracts were actually fulfilled. The deep web — also known as the deep net — is a collective term for non-indexed websites that are invisible to traditional search engines.
Accessing the dark web requires specific tools and knowledge. Below are steps to help you navigate safely.
That said, it can be difficult for users to find the material they are looking for on the dark web. Addresses tend to be a mix of random numbers and letters, making them challenging to remember or access manually. Addresses also change frequently due to the transient nature of many dark web actors. Finally, because the dark web routes all traffic through a series of proxy servers, which are operated by thousands of volunteers around the world, the search process is typically very slow. To access the dark web, users need a special browser, the most common of which is Tor, short for “The Onion Routing” project, which launched in 2002 and serves millions of users. Another is I2P (Invisible Internet Project), which specializes in the anonymous hosting of websites on the dark web.
I also like that the security guides are very easy to read — the format is easy to scan, complicated terms are explained very well, and there are videos and screenshots. It’s great how the site has a Security Scenarios section too, where it offers personalized security tips for specific audiences (activists, academic researchers, journalists, and more). The link checker lets you test a .onion link to see if it’s active or not. Some dark web links take ages to load or don’t work on the first try, so this tool lets you quickly check if they’re active. There’s a list of 100+ dark web links, and each site comes with a quick, helpful description. The traffic is routed via the closest nodes in the open net to create efficient routing.
Setting up a VPN is easy, and there are plenty of commercial VPNs for PC and other devices available. Further explore why enterprise dark web monitoring is worth the investment. According to the 2021 Dark Web Price Index, these are typical prices, in U.S. dollars, of goods and services sold on the dark web.
- Download Tor Browser
- Install the Tor Browser
- Connect to the Internet
- Navigate to Dark Web Sites
- Enhance Your Security
The deep web is generally safe and secure to use; owners of private websites or services are responsible for maintaining their security. That said, cybercriminals increasingly target this part of the internet because of the lucrative personal data lying within. That’s why basic online hygiene has become critical to protecting yourself online. The dark web is a term used to describe websites that aren’t indexed by standard search engines.
The first step in accessing the dark web is to download the Tor Browser. This browser allows you to access .onion sites, which are exclusive to the dark web.
Here too, the TLDs are not the familiar ones used in the surface web – websites here have the .i2p extension. We have prepared for you a few simple but compulsory steps you need to follow if you are about to access the deep web. When we said above “the remainder of the internet” is the deep web, it gives you the idea that there are only two parts of the internet, the surface, and the deep web.
After downloading, install the browser just like you would with any other software. Make sure to follow installation instructions carefully.
Datapro
Once installed, open the Tor Browser and connect to the Tor network. This process may take a few moments.
Use specific URLs to access dark web sites. These URLs typically end in .onion. Make sure to find reliable sources for these links.
Consider additional security measures such as using a VPN for anonymity or disabling scripts within the Tor Browser to reduce risks.
Tips for Navigating the Dark Web Safely
- Never share personal information.
- Be cautious with links; avoid clicking on unknown URLs.
- Use encrypted communication tools for additional privacy.
- Download files only from trusted sources.
FAQs About the Dark Web
What is the purpose of the dark web?
The dark web serves various purposes, including privacy for whistleblowers, activists, and individuals in oppressive regimes.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web can result in legal consequences.
Can I access the dark web from any device?
Yes, but it is recommended to use a dedicated device for security reasons. Avoid using your primary computer to mitigate risks.
Conclusion
Understanding how do you get to the dark web is crucial for safety and privacy. By following the necessary steps and adhering to best practices, one can explore the dark web more securely.
