How To Use Tor: A Quick Tour Of The Software
Tor is an open-source browser that allows people to access web pages on the dark web. The name “Tor” is an acronym that stands for The Onion Router, and the term “onion” isn’t as random as it sounds. This special browser uses layers of connections—like an onion—to keep the actions of its users secret while exploring the web.
The users of the dark web are typically aiming to block governments from snooping on them. This can often be for political reasons, but also because they may be involved in illegal activities, such as the ones listed above. The deep web contains sites and pages that are often prevented from being indexed by search engines and contain unlinked content. It can also reside in web archives, non-HTML pages, and so forth. The deep web is made up of content that search engines such as Google do not index. Such data includes medical records, financial information, research papers, private forums and networks, and other content.
IBM estimates that REvil’s profits in the past year were $81 million. The affiliates distribute the ransomware packages through the dark web. These attacks often include stealing victims’ data and threatening to release it on the dark web if the ransom isn’t paid.
Understanding the Dark Web
- In one example, Comparitech uncovered a fraudulent bitcoin mixing site on the dark web that featured prominently in Google search results.
- Tor users in the USA, in particular, may want to use a VPN, which will be faster and more reliable.
- Prior to her role at Bluestone Analytics, Ms. Everington served as a data scientist at Elder Research, a consulting firm that specializes in solving unique problems in a variety of industries.
- With a readable site name like that, people will know what to expect when they click on the link.
The dark web refers to a portion of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires specific software to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, but also hosts various legitimate forums and resources.
But if you are a blogger in say Beijing, you wouldn’t want your Dark Web site indexed anyway by a search engine for the government to track you. You would instead rely on word of mouth from trusted supporters to find you. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies can track Tor users through traffic analysis. Agencies can determine users’ location by analyzing the data flow within the TOR network. This method allows law enforcement agencies to trace activities back to specific individuals on the TOR network.
Why Access the Dark Web?
People may want to access the dark web for several reasons, including:
- Privacy: To maintain anonymity and safeguard personal information.
- Information: To access content that is censored or restricted in certain countries.
- Community: To engage with like-minded individuals in niche forums.
For example, if you log on to your medical provider’s website to send messages to your doctor or to check your latest test results, that’s the deep web. Same goes for reading internal memos on your company’s corporate intranet. Not because it’s dark or dangerous, but because it’s not available to see without proper login credentials. Deep web content makes up most of the internet — by some estimates, 96 percent or more, says CSO Daily.
These can include the previously mentioned illegal offerings, but can also include ultra-private information designed to be shared only with certain parties. There’s a significant risk to dark web users of being exposed to malware (malicious software) infections. There are several programs that hackers frequently use on the dark web.
When you envision the dark web, it may conjure up images of hackers trading stolen Social Security numbers or drug dealers advertising their products online—and that’s not completely wrong. While the dark web can be a helpful tool for sourcing legitimate products or ensuring private communication, it’s also a hotspot for illegal internet activity. What makes the deep web different from the dark web is that the former is made up of pages that are not indexed but are still accessible if you visit them directly. The Tor Browser is currently available only for Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux. Once connected, you’ll have access to dark net websites called “Tor hidden services”. Instead of “.com” or “.org”, Dark Web addresses trail with a “.onion“.
How to Access the Dark Web Safely
Accessing the dark web carries inherent risks, such as exposure to illegal content and potential cybersecurity threats. Here’s a guide on how to access the dark web safely.
The dark web is just the name for all of the Tor hidden services on the internet, including websites with .onion URLs that can only be accessed with the Tor Browser. Many of the sites on the dark web are perfectly legal and legitimate. This means you are depending on your VPN provider 100% to keep you secure. Not a problem if you use a trusted VPN provider, perhaps, but it should generally be a case of VPN vs. Tor? In addition to Tor’s three layers of encryption, the browser also deletes your browsing history, erases your tracks and prevents sites from identifying and tracking you, explains Wired.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Use a VPN: Before accessing the dark web, install a reputable Virtual Private Network (VPN) to mask your IP address.
- Download Tor Browser: The Tor Browser is necessary for navigating the dark web. Download it from the official site to ensure you are using a secure version.
- Verify Tor Settings: After installation, check the browser settings to ensure maximum security, including disabling scripts.
- Access .onion Sites: Websites on the dark web typically use the .onion extension. Only visit sites from known or reputable sources.
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information. Use pseudonyms and consider creating a new email for engagements.
- Use Security Software: Keep your device updated with antivirus software to help protect against malware.
Safety Precautions
Implement additional safety measures:
- Be Skeptical: Not everything on the dark web is trustworthy. Exercise caution when evaluating sources.
- Avoid Downloads: Downloading files from the dark web can expose you to malware.
- Limit Your Time: Minimize the amount of time spent browsing the dark web to reduce risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is legal; however, engaging in illegal activities while on it is not.
Can I be traced while using the dark web?
While it is designed to provide anonymity, it is possible to be traced if proper precautions are not taken. Using a VPN and the Tor Browser significantly reduces this risk.
What kind of content can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a mix of legal and illegal content, including forums, marketplaces, and blogs. Always proceed with caution and adhere to legal boundaries.
Are there legal uses for the dark web?
Yes, the dark web can be used for various legal purposes, such as whistleblowing, journalism, and accessing information in heavily censored regions.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be done safely with the right knowledge and precautions. Always prioritize your security, privacy, and legal boundaries while navigating this hidden part of the internet.
