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How to Use Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines and requires specific software to access. Exploring it safely requires knowledge and precaution. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use dark web.
Getting that hot new movie may be tempting, but it could very easily come with a side of malware. Interestingly, the surface web only makes up around 4% of the total internet, meaning the internet is a lot more than what you see on the surface. Think of it as an ocean — there’s the top layer of water you can see and then there’s the vast world beneath. For questions about services, capabilities, careers, contracts, or to express a concern, contact us using the link below. When the COVID-19 outbreak began in Wuhan, China, information about the outreach was initially censored, and doctors were restricted from speaking out about the threat. Concerned about the potential spread of the virus, Chinese netizens posted updates to the dark web, knowing it would be much harder for their government to trace the leaked information.
Understanding the Dark Web
You use the deep web every day when you check your email or shop online, but you’ll need the Tor Browser to use the dark web. Some of the more famous Tor websites are about exploring tunnels in American universities. Riseup supports the causes of “human liberation, the ethical treatment of animals, and ecological sustainability.” Riseup also provides organizational tools, mailing lists, and more. As a bonus, ProPublica is one of the most polished web experiences you’ll have on the dark web. You can also use Tor to read The New York Times and other news sites or use their SecureDrop integration for whistleblowing purposes.
“You could also build trust with members of these groups or forums, but that is usually something that law enforcement officials acting undercover do,” he says. Due to the lack of oversight, though, scams and malware are prevalent on the dark web. We would advise you to avoid visiting the dark web unless absolutely necessary. Download this white paper to learn how CrowdStrike Falcon® Intelligence Recon can help identify potentially malicious and criminal activity across the dark web.
The dark web is often confused with the deep web, but they are not the same. While the deep web includes all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines (like databases and private corporate sites), the dark web refers specifically to websites that are intentionally hidden and require special software to access.
Paul Syverson, David Goldschlag, and Michael Reed were the three mathematicians at the Naval Research Laboratory who began working on the concept of onion routing. Just like Mariana Trench in the south Pacific Ocean is the deepest place on earth, the Dark Web is the deepest point of the internet. More or less, the Dark Web can be considered a two-way sword that can contribute to both legal and illegal activities. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of what is the Dark Web, some of the popular activities taking place on the Dark Web, and how it can be accessed on PC or mobile. But even though technologies such as Tor are used to facilitate illegal activities, the technology itself isn’t inherently good or bad. It’s become popular with journalists and activists and even regular citizens who value privacy and freedom of expression.
Plus, the dark web relies on randomized network infrastructure, creating virtual traffic tunnels. All of these technical details serve to promote anonymity and protect dark web users’ privacy. It’s important to note that the dark web should not be confused with the deep web, which is a part of the internet individuals access regularly. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to different things. Deep web content — which isn’t picked up by search engines, either — includes pages that typically require additional credentials to access. Your online banking accounts and email accounts, for instance, are examples of deep web content.
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“. The Onion Router (hence the Tor acronym) uses three layers of encryption and a specific internet traffic routing mechanism to ensure complete anonymity. It combines strong layers of encryption with the ability to randomly bounce internet traffic through the Tor network of relays. Most of the digital content in the world is not accessible via web search engines.
The Dark Web is not entirely malicious, but it’s also not a safe place to visit. Novices and experts alike should exercise care and caution when visiting the Dark Web. The Dark Web is used frequently by good actors for legitimate reasons.
Essential Tools for Accessing the Dark Web
To access the dark web, you will need:
- Tor Browser: A modified web browser that allows users to access .onion sites, which are only reachable through the Tor network.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Enhances your security and anonymity by encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a live operating system like Tails, which runs from a USB stick and leaves no traces on the host machine.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely explore the dark web:
- Install the Tor Browser: Download it from the official Tor Project website to avoid malicious versions.
- Use a VPN: Before opening the Tor Browser, connect to a VPN to increase your privacy.
- Open the Tor Browser: Launch it and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- Navigate Carefully: Use search engines specific to the dark web, such as DuckDuckGo on Tor, to find .onion sites.
- Maintain Security: Avoid downloading files or clicking on unfamiliar links to prevent malware infections.
Safety Precautions
While navigating the dark web, keep the following safety tips in mind:
- If the signal goes through the Tor network first, your ISP will be able to see that you are attempting to connect to a Tor node.
- The total number of users visiting the dark web increased in mid-April of 2023 to 2.7 million.
- Google may be synonymous with online search but the internet is much larger than a single search engine.
- Dark net websites are called “Tor hidden services”, and they can be distinguished from normal websites by their URLs.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Remain anonymous and never reveal your identity.
- Avoid Illegal Activities: Engaging in illegal purchases or activities can lead to serious legal consequences.
- Use Encrypted Communication: If communicating with others, use encrypted email services like ProtonMail.
- Disable Scripts: Within the Tor Browser, disable scripts to prevent tracking and potential attacks.
Common Uses for the Dark Web
While often associated with illegal activities, the dark web serves various legitimate purposes, including:
- Whistleblowing: Activists and journalists can use the dark web to share sensitive information without revealing their identities.
- Privacy Protection: People in oppressive regimes may use it to access information freely.
- Research: Cybersecurity professionals study trends and threats that exist within the dark web.
FAQs
What is the difference between the dark web and the deep web?
The deep web refers to all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines, while the dark web is a small portion of the deep web that requires special tools to access.
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.
How do I find .onion sites?
You can find .onion sites through specialized dark web search engines or directories designed for that purpose.
Exploring the dark web can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and precautions, one can navigate it safely and responsibly.
