Much of the Deep web consists of databases and intranets that are not accessible without some sort of permission. Most of the rest consists of websites that cannot be reached using standard internet protocols. Those hard-to-access websites are collectively known as the Dark web. You can access the Dark web safely, but just diving in blindly is a bad idea. This is like going spelunking without the proper equipment — you’re likely to get hurt, possibly very badly. We’re going to get you oriented for this journey as fast as possible, then give you the tools you need to get down to the Dark web and look around for yourself.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that requires specific software and configurations to access. It is not indexed by conventional search engines and is often associated with anonymity and privacy.
Most of the dark web’s bad rep comes from all the illegal trade that’s happening there. Hackers and criminals take advantage of anonymity to sell all kinds of illicit goods and services. Once you have the necessary tools, you can visit dark web sites by adding their domains to the Tor browser’s address bar. It may be wise to connect to a VPN server before browsing via Tor (though expect to experience a slower connection). And you should also think about malware protection because getting infected on the dark web is much easier.
You can’t just look up some Dark web page in your regular search engine and dive head first into the darkness. You need a specialized browser and either a specialized search engine or direct knowledge of an address to reach Dark web pages. While Tor is an open-source project, your activity can still be traced back to your IP address. The best way to prevent your browsing activity from alerting authorities is to avoid sites with illegal activity altogether — another reason to only visit sites you’ve researched and trust. To avoid encountering disturbing or illegal situations, I advise against entering darknet sites before thoroughly researching them.
What is the Dark Web?
Is The Dark Web Illegal?
The dark web is a segment of the deep web, which encompasses all parts of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines. Unlike the surface web, the dark web allows users to browse the internet anonymously, making it a place for both legitimate and illicit activities.
Just remember that when you login to and use Facebook, the service still knows who you are. Thus, the dark web version of Facebook is there for bypassing censorship, not for gaining anonymity on the social media platform. The Hidden Wiki is a version of Wikipedia that is on the dark web.
In order to browse the dark web, you need to take preemptive steps toward anonymity. In particular, you will need a VPN connection and a secure web browser (such as the Tor Browser). Depending on your needs, you may want to use your VPN to download the secure browser of your choice.
How to Get to the Dark Web:
Not surprisingly, the dark web also sells the technical tools and information to set up another dark web. “There are many dark webs already,” says Douglas Lubhan, VP of threat intelligence at BlackFog. “Basically, any network that is shielded from internet search engines and restricts access to it is a dark web.
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. And when a crime is committed, it’s much more challenging for law enforcement to track down the cybercriminals and get your money back. If you want to access the Tor network on your iPhone or iPad, you can use the Onion Browser app. The mobile app uses DuckDuckGo as its default search engine and is supported by the Orbit framework to provide secure access to the Tor network. VPNs are also used for accessing geo-locked content hosted by streaming services. The best VPN options are paid-for and subscription-based, as many free options will either throttle your speed or collect your data.
Accessing the dark web requires careful steps to ensure safety and security. Follow this guide to safely navigate to the dark web:
- Use a VPN:
Before accessing the dark web, it’s essential to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to hide your IP address and encrypt your internet connection.
- Download Tor Browser:
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser. This browser is specifically designed for anonymous browsing.
- Install the Tor Browser:
After downloading, install the Tor Browser. Ensure you are downloading it from the official website to avoid malware.
- Configure Security Settings:
Once installed, configure the security settings to enhance privacy. Set security to the highest level to block potentially dangerous content.
- Start Browsing:
Open the Tor Browser and use .onion links exclusively to access websites on the dark web. Regular web URLs will not work.
- You can choose 256-bit for maximum protection or 128-bit if you want a faster connection.
- Download this white paper to learn how CrowdStrike Falcon® Intelligence Recon can help identify potentially malicious and criminal activity across the dark web.
- We reported on Mr. Cooper—one of the nation’s largest mortgage providers—a month ago.
- Sci-Hub is mostly useful for academics who know the PMID, DOI, or URLs of papers they want to access.
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
While navigating the dark web, it’s crucial to remain vigilant. Here are some safety tips:
- Avoid Personal Information: Never share personal information that can be used to identify you.
- Be Aware of Scams: Many sites on the dark web are fraudulent. Exercise caution when interacting with anyone.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If making transactions, consider using cryptocurrencies for anonymity.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure that your Tor Browser and VPN are always up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
1. Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities that occur there can be illegal, such as buying drugs or stolen goods.
2. Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web provides anonymity, it is still possible to be tracked. Using a VPN and the Tor Browser significantly lowers the risk.
3. What types of websites are on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of sites, including forums, marketplaces, and blogs. While some content is illegal, there are also legitimate uses, such as whistleblower platforms.
4. Do I need special hardware to access the dark web?
No special hardware is necessary. A standard computer and an internet connection, combined with the Tor Browser and a VPN, are sufficient.
Following these steps and precautions can help you learn how to get to the dark web while minimizing risks. Stay informed and cautious during your browsing experience.
