Secure Drop
Understanding the Dark Web
Hosting over 5,300 stores across North America alone, AutoZone is a recognizably local option for car owners stateside. This week, the cybersecurity environment continued to be rocked by the global MOVEit data breach. Various Stanford Health groups had information taken in the MOVEit event, up to 1.6 million patient records. Robeson Health Care Corporation (RHCC) is a healthcare network serving North Carolina residents. They offer behavioral, dental, general, and outreach services in nine locations across six counties.
- Nira has also attained its International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) certification.
- But again, your ISP won’t be able to see any of the content you’re reading or what you are sending and receiving through the Tor network.
- Now that you know how to access the dark web, you should also consider the risks you may encounter once you’re there.
- You can pay your bills, schedule your next family vacation, and order groceries with the click of a button.
- Scammers use this data for malicious activities like identity theft and account takeover.
The dark web represents a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. Many associate it with illicit activities, but it also serves legitimate purposes, such as privacy protection and communication security.
Some legitimate websites and forums offer information and resources that could be restricted where you live. Yes, the police can still track you on the dark web if they need to, although it’s extremely hard to do so. The Tor browser you use to access the dark web can mask your identity and location. The average user won’t be able to identify you on the dark web, but the authorities can still track you down with high-level technologies. There are a lot of VPNs in the market, but not all VPNs were created equal. We recommend using Clario’s VPN, which is a highly-rated, easy to use and reliable VPN software.
And since most of the dark web URLs are hard to remember, it’s better to use service websites like The Hidden Wiki that offers a collection of dark web links. It comes with advanced features like full leak protection, RAM-only servers, and perfect forward secrecy, and it also has a no-logs policy that has passed several independent audits. 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. ExpressVPN provides high-end security features that are ideal for surfing the dark web.
For some users — like journalists or whistleblowers — the dark web is about identity protection. It’s where individuals can share anonymous tips with the press on secure drop sites. Special agents like Swensen are looking for the kinds of users who want this full cloak of anonymity in order to mask their illegal activity. Traditional search engines return results because they contain indexes of links to websites.
How to Get the Dark Web
Your internet service provider and the websites you visit can detect when Tor is being used because Tor exit IP addresses are public. It contains pages that are intentionally hidden from search engines, all of which require you to use anonymity software, like the Tor Browser, to access them. However, the dark web can facilitate illegal acts, such as accessing illegal images or videos, money laundering, and selling illegal items like drugs, firearms, or stolen credentials. Many .onion websites are designed to steal your personal information. Scammers create websites, forums, or marketplaces designed to mimic real websites or services. Tor is a safe and popular way to access the dark web, but there are still alternatives out there.
Browsers with the appropriate proxy can reach these sites, but others can’t. Think of the dark web, then, as a small subset of the deep web that regular browsers can’t access. When you access the dark web, you’re not surfing the interconnected servers you regularly interact with.
For more information, read more about the most secure email service providers in my other post. It has been estimated that a large percentage of dark web traffic is related to illegal pornography that includes underage victims. As you are now familiar with the three different sections within the entire world wide web, let’s take a closer look at how you can access the dark web anonymously. We’ve also previously mentioned the “dark users” that use the dark web for illegal reasons, but the less said about them, the better. The release of Freenet in 2000 is considered by many as the start or founding of the dark web.
If you want to explore the dark web, here are the essential steps you should follow:
- Download a Special Browser
- Install the Browser
- Connect to the Tor Network
- Understand the Risks
- Use a VPN
- Navigate with Care
Some alleged services like the professional “hitmen” may just be scams designed to profit from willing customers. Reports have suggested the dark web offers many illegal services, from paid assassinations to trafficking for sex and weapons. Malicious software — i.e. malware — is fully alive all across the dark web.
You need a specific browser to access the dark web. The most common one is the Tor Browser, which anonymizes your internet activity. Download it only from the official Tor Project website to avoid malware.
Once downloaded, install the Tor Browser on your computer following the on-screen instructions. Ensure you close all other applications that use the internet to enhance your anonymity.
Open the Tor Browser and click on the ‘Connect’ button to establish a connection to the Tor network. This process may take a couple of moments.
Before diving into the dark web, recognize the potential dangers, including exposure to illegal activities, scams, and malware. It is advisable to take precautionary measures.
While the Tor network provides anonymity, pairing it with a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) enhances your privacy. Ensure the VPN does not keep logs of your activity.
Access websites that end with the .onion domain, which are specifically hosted on the Tor network. Use links from trusted sources or directories to avoid malicious sites.
Safety Tips for Browsing the Dark Web
- Be Wary of Scams – Many sites on the dark web are fraudulent. Always verify sources before providing any information.
- Avoid Personal Information – Never share personal details, including your real name and address.
- Use Cryptocurrency – If you consider making transactions, use cryptocurrencies for additional anonymity.
- Stay Updated – Keep your Tor Browser and other security tools up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
What is the purpose of the dark web?
The dark web is used for activities requiring privacy, such as whistleblowing, political activism, and secure communication.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, many illegal activities occur within it. Engaging in such activities is against the law.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the Tor Browser and VPNs provide anonymity, total anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Always practice caution when navigating.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
Exit the site immediately and consider reporting it to law enforcement, as engaging with illegal content can have serious consequences.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web can be intriguing and informative, but it comes with significant risks. By following the outlined steps and prioritizing safety, you can explore this hidden part of the internet responsibly. Always remember that while the dark web offers privacy, it can also expose you to harmful content and illegal activities.
