How Does Tor Browser Work?
You could also use NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN and visit the dark web on any browser, like Safari. While the deep and dark web are somewhat similar (i.e., they don’t usually appear on search engines), they’re also very different. Given the dangers that lurk on the dark web, it’s a no-brainer that you shouldn’t disclose any personal information like your name, email address, phone number, or financial details. If an email is required, use a burner mail account or an anonymous, secure email provider.
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. The danger comes in when you download illegal materials which contain viruses or malware, like trojans, worms, or keyloggers. All sites on the dark web end with “.onion,” as opposed to “.com” or “.org” commonly seen on the surface web. That’s a deliberate ploy so that only browsers with specific proxies are allowed to access those sites. It’s also very difficult to remember the URLs of sites on the dark web, which is another way to maintain their anonymity.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a haven for privacy-focused individuals. However, accessing the dark web requires specific steps and precautions. Below is a comprehensive guide on how do you get to the dark web.
By simply entering the wrong URL or accidentally downloading a malicious file, you could install infectious viruses or malware. This can have a detrimental impact on your device or, even worse, expose your personal information. Not all mass thefts of data facilitated by the dark web have been motivated by money. The publicizing of Snowden’s actions led to a global spike of interest in Tor and a resulting rapid expansion of the network’s user base. Onion services (formerly known as Tor Hidden Services) are the hidden services that you can reach through the Tor network and a compatible web browser. It has been hacked before, and there is evidence that it is being hacked right now.
ARPANET was a computer communications system that later took on a tentacle-like structure that made communicating between devices possible. Though the dark web seems like an invention of the new millennium, its history dates back farther than one might think. A few pioneers built the dark web into what it is today, a hidden underbelly of the Internet with content ranging from innocuous to downright illegal.
What You Need
ExpressVPN is our pick for the best VPN overall, thanks to its fast and reliable connection and the wide range of platforms it works on. A VPN will mask your location and stop the online breadcrumbs that can lead back to you. Connections made while a VPN is active will also be encrypted, helping you stay protected from eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks. You can usually select the location you want to appear to originate from and VPNs will use a collection of servers and relays to make tracing your IP difficult. The dark web, however, requires special software to access, as explained below.
And if you have no idea what to do if your identity is stolen, Aura has your back. That’s why people who try Aura’s Dark Web Scanner are shocked to see how much of their sensitive information is exposed just by running a scan of their email address. A hacked Uber rider account goes for just $4, and a Netflix account with a paid one-year subscription is worth $44. More out-of-reach commodities such as a French passport can cost up to $4,000. The most notorious of all Dark Web marketplaces was Silk Road which, at its peak, catered to over 100,000 buyers. Developed in the mid-1990s to keep U.S. intelligence communications from prying eyes, the Tor Project is the preferred method to access Dark Web content.
- The anonymity offered by Tor allows both hosts and users to cloak their identities.
- For example, I looked up google.com and was able to find a snapshot of Google’s home page from 2008.
- The dark web, by contrast, is configured on darknets, which are online networks that can be accessed only with special software and techniques.
- With Tor node IPs being public, Internet providers can detect when it is being used.
Before you venture into the dark web, ensure you have the following:
- VPN Service: This provides an additional layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Tor Browser: The primary tool for accessing the dark web, allowing users to browse anonymously.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a live operating system like Tails for enhanced security.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely access the dark web:
- Install a VPN:
- Choose a reputable VPN service.
- Make sure it does not keep logs of user activity.
- Download the Tor Browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the browser suitable for your operating system.
- Configure the Tor Browser:
- Open the Tor Browser and configure the settings as recommended.
- Ensure your VPN is active before you open the Tor Browser.
- Connect to the Tor Network:
- Click “Connect” when prompted by the Tor Browser.
- Wait for the connection to be established, which may take a few moments.
- Navigate the Dark Web:
- Use specific .onion websites that are accessible only via Tor.
- Access directories and search engines designed for the dark web to find content.
Important Security Tips
While navigating the dark web, prioritize your safety with these precautions:
- Never share personal information.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Be cautious of downloads, as they may contain malware.
- Use encrypted messaging services for communication.
- Regularly update your software and security settings.
FAQs about the Dark Web
Q: Is it illegal to access the dark web?
A: Accessing the dark web is not illegal, but many activities within it are. Ensure you know the laws in your jurisdiction.
Q: Can I be tracked on the dark web?
A: While Tor provides anonymity, combining it with a VPN significantly enhances your security. However, complete anonymity is never guaranteed.
Q: What can I find on the dark web?
A: The dark web hosts various content, including forums, markets, and whistleblowing platforms. However, exercise caution and avoid illegal activities.
Q: How can I stay safe while using the dark web?
A: Always use a VPN, avoid sharing personal information, be cautious about the links you click, and employ strong security tools.
Conclusion
Understanding how do you get to the dark web is crucial for those interested in exploring this hidden part of the internet. By taking necessary precautions and following the outlined steps, you can embark on your journey safely.
