Content
The lack of regulation leaves the dark web rife with offensive content and unsafe websites. There are different levels of security in the browser that are worth considering. To review security settings, click on the onion logo in the top left and select “Security Settings”, which will bring up a slider offering a choice of the default of standard, or safer and safest. In “safer” mode, JavaScript is disabled on HTTP sites, some fonts are disabled, and all audio and video won’t run automatically, you’ll have to click to play. Slide up to the “safest” level, and as well as those settings, JavaScript is disabled on all sites. Onion sites are hosted on a web server in the same way as ordinary sites, but you change web server configurations so that it only responds to your localhost.
Understanding the Dark Web
Some of this data has been gleaned from major breaches, like UC Accellion’s data breach affecting more than 148 million consumers. Consumers who find their information on the Dark Web should take appropriate action, such as changing passwords, checking credit reports, and contacting banks. However, remember that these details were likely there long before these breaches happened. Similarly, Data Breach Scanner will monitor all the credentials and credit card details stored in your NordPass vault.
In theory this should make your deep web browsing (as well as your regular web browsing) entirely private from interlopers. However, since your traffic is routed through nodes that you don’t have any control over, you are at the mercy of whoever operates these nodes. The terms “deep web” and “dark web” are commonly used interchangeably. Although this is accurate in terms of the underlying technology, there is a slight difference. The deep web refers to non-indexed webpages as a whole, while dark web refers more specifically to the parts of the deep web where you can engage in illicit activities. If you use the widest definition of the deep web, then it’s a vast ocean of websites.
The dark web was originally a domain exclusively used by cybercriminals and governments. Today, this is no longer true–advanced encryption technologies have made the anonymization of web surfing a hassle-free affair for regular users. The deep web is defined as the internet section that is not indexed by web crawlers. The dark web, on the other hand, is defined as a subsegment of the deep web that can be accessed only with special tools. While the former is used chiefly for legitimate day-to-day online activities, the latter is more anonymous and known for illegal transactions. This article reveals the top five key differences between the dark web and the deep web.
Beneath VT is an educational and entertainment blog dedicated to exploring the steam tunnels beneath Virginia Tech. I included Beneath VT in this guide because it stands out from other sites on the dark web, and it’s also interesting and fun to read. Legal.Cases lets you pick court decisions from 10+ country categories (including the US, the UK, and Russia). There’s also an International category, where you can find cases from tons of other countries like Austria, Romania, and Portugal. Dark web domains are generated in a cryptographically secure way, so they look like random strings of 16 characters or more (like 3g2upl4pq6kufc4m.onion, for example).
The most well-known method of accessing the dark web is through Tor browser. The dark web sites on Tor have .onion attached right at the end of the web address, and can only be accessed by said web browser. However, there are methods used to access dark web sites without using Tor. In this article, we will cover how we can access dark web sites with a regular browser, as well as the methods used to identify and research actual dark web sites belonging to hacker groups. Your connection is encrypted Tor which adds a layer of privacy to your traffic, but this doesn’t mean every link is safe. Cybercriminals use the dark web to lure you in with suspicious links and malicious content.
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines and requires specific software to access. It is known for hosting various types of content, both legal and illegal.
The VPN also has Smart Rules, which is a feature that lets you personalize your VPN connections. For example, you can configure the CyberGhost VPN app to automatically connect to a desired VPN server and open the Tor browser app on launch. I also like that ExpressVPN offers split-tunneling, which lets you choose which apps use the VPN and which use your local network. I used ExpressVPN’s split-tunneling feature to only send dark web traffic through the VPN, which increased my speeds by 5–10%.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Before learning how to find dark web, it is crucial to have the right tools and knowledge:
- Tor Browser: The primary tool for accessing the dark web, allowing users to surf anonymously.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Adds an extra layer of privacy and security while navigating.
- Cryptocurrency: For transactions on the dark web, many sites prefer Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
- Security Software: Ensure that your device has an updated antivirus and anti-malware protection.
🥇1 ExpressVPN — Best For Visiting Sites On The Dark Web In 2024
Steps on How to Find Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely navigate the dark web:
- Download and install the Tor Browser from its official website.
- Use a VPN to ensure privacy. This is especially important in case of potential monitoring.
- Launch the Tor Browser, and connect to the Tor network. This may take a few moments.
- Access Websites: Use directories or search engines optimized for the dark web, such as:
- Ahmia: A search engine that indexes .onion sites.
- Not Evil: Another search engine for locating hidden services.
- Be Cautious: Always protect your identity and personal information. Do not share sensitive details.
Popular Dark Web Sites
- Meanwhile, many users are trying to use a limited number of relays—some of which will be low quality.
- Thanks to the Dark Web Monitoring service provided under the SOCRadar Digital Risk Protection module, we can be your eye on the Dark Web.
- However, with any browser you use, there are risks involved in using the dark web so I advise that you browse with the added security of a VPN.
While browsing the dark web, you might come across various sites and forums. Some common types include:
- Marketplaces: For buying products, both legal and illegal.
- Forums: Discuss various topics, including privacy, technology, and hacking.
- Blogs: Information about different subjects, often written anonymously.
Safety Tips for Navigating the Dark Web
Staying safe while exploring the dark web is paramount:
- Never reveal personal information.
- Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources to prevent malware infections.
- Use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Be aware of scams and fraudulent schemes prevalent in the dark web.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I access the dark web without Tor?
No, you cannot access dark web sites with standard browsers. You need the Tor Browser specifically designed for this purpose.
Is the dark web illegal?
The dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities conducted there, including drug trafficking and illegal sales, are against the law.
Is it safe to browse the dark web?
While browsing the dark web can be done safely, risks are involved. It’s essential to follow best security practices to protect your identity and personal information.
How do I stay anonymous on the dark web?
Using a VPN, the Tor Browser, and practicing good digital hygiene are key strategies to maintain anonymity while exploring.