Why Would I Want To Access The Dark Web?
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web refers to a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines, requiring specific software to access. It’s often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves legitimate purposes, such as preserving privacy and anonymity for users in oppressive regimes.
How to Access the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web involves a few carefully planned steps to maintain safety and anonymity. Below is a guide on how to access the dark web securely:
Whether it’s your operating system, your browser, or the Tor software you’ll be using to access the Dark Web, make sure everything is up to date. Antivirus software and firewalls are another essential component of your safety toolkit. Antivirus software will protect your device from malicious software, while firewalls help prevent unauthorized access to your system.
Requirements Before You Start
If my attorney stood up in court and said “four out of 10 things Sam does every day are legal,” I would fire them. But we can’t ignore that criminal activity also occurs on the surface web, and nobody talks about the surface web as though it’s wholly evil. The Tor network and onion sites are indeed used for terrible things. Tor software protects not just the client side, but the server side as well. Using open-source Tor tools, a server owner can hide their real IP address, rendering it impossible to find out the site’s physical location and protecting it from intervention by the authorities.
Before diving into the dark web, make sure you have:
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): This adds a layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Tor Browser: The most common tool for accessing the dark web.
- Antivirus Software: Essential to protect your device from malware.
Because of its extra anonymity, the dark web is a haven for privacy-conscious users, like whistleblowers, activists, investigative journalists, and ordinary people living under repressive regimes. It’s also a playground for cybercriminals, illegal activities, and shady stuff. The VPN allows Tor traffic on 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, which is great. But I had much faster speeds with ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access. NordVPN allows Tor traffic on all servers and also has Onion Over VPN servers in 2 countries (Switzerland and the Netherlands). Onion Over VPN servers automatically route your traffic through the Tor network, so they allow you to visit dark web sites in regular browsers like Firefox and Chrome, which is very convenient.
The absolute best VPN for the dark web is Private Internet Access, because its zero-logs policy has been proven multiple times by subpoenas and real-world cases. Each time, PIA has been unable to hand over any user data to the authorities. Unfortunately, you can’t use a VPN service at the same time as Orbot, so you won’t be able to use an existing VPN subscription for this method. To access the dark web on a mobile device, we recommend using a VPN with the Tor Browser on Android, or using the Onion Browser and Orbot on iOS.
And, you have less space and capabilities to install protective measures. You can buy a wide range of legal goods and services on dark web marketplaces. There are also some illegal things for sale, as detailed in the Dark Web Price Index 2021. When making purchases on the dark web, protect yourself by using anonymized account information and cryptocurrency whenever possible. The dark web was created not long after the first message was sent in 1969 over the original internet, ARPANET.
- Passwords, physical addresses, bank account numbers, and social security numbers circulate in the dark web all the time.
- It was largely the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009 that transformed the dark web into a sanctuary for criminals.
- A VPN hides your actual IP address by redirecting your internet connection through a separate server.
- Any good IT article on computers and network security will address the importance of strong, secure passwords.
- There’s information on live marketplaces and even includes some trustworthy links.
Although no one knows your identity when using TOR, some people like to add an additional layer of protection and connect to TOR via a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The reason for that is that even though you’re anonymous, you can still be identified as using TOR for “something”. When you access the pedestrian Internet, you are directly communicating with websites. But when you’re accessing a website through TOR it’s like asking another user to ask another user to ask another user to fetch the webpage information for you. While we’ve spent a lot of time discussing how to access the Dark Web safely, it’s equally important to understand the risks involved.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to access the dark web safely:
- Download and Install a VPN:
- Choose a reliable and trusted VPN service.
- Install the software according to the service’s instructions.
- Connect to the VPN:
- Select a server location and connect.
- Download Tor Browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website to download.
- Make sure to verify the download for authenticity.
- Install and Open Tor Browser:
- Follow the installation prompts.
- Once installed, open the Tor Browser.
- Adjust Security Settings:
- Set your security level in the Tor browser according to your needs.
- Start Browsing:
- Use onion (.onion) links to access dark web sites.
Safety Precautions
When exploring the dark web, it’s crucial to adhere to safety measures:
- Never share personal information.
- Avoid illegal activities to remain secure.
- Use strong passwords for any registrations.
- Be cautious of suspicious links and downloads.
FAQs
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for various purposes, including:
- Privacy protection.
- Communication in oppressive regimes.
- Whistleblowing platforms.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is against the law.
Can my activity be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web provides anonymity, skilled investigators can still track activity. Always use a VPN and secure your devices.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to access the dark web can be a gateway to understanding a unique segment of the internet. However, exercise caution and remain informed to navigate safely and responsibly.
