9 Million Records Stolen From Human Resource Analytics Company Zeroed-In
Understanding the Darknet
The darknet is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access, which ensures anonymity and privacy for its users.
There, you’ll find a wide range of seedy content and illegal activities, along with products and services that most folks would prefer to avoid. Unlike the surface and deep web, you can’t access the dark web via a standard or specialized search engine. To access the dark web, you’ll need a specific set of tools – more about that later in the step-by-step section. The deep web is made up of content that search engines such as Google do not index.
What You Need to Access the Darknet
Because of this, tracking down the web addresses of deep web sites is a much more manual process. Aleksander Hougen, the managing editor at Cloudwards, is an expert in cloud storage and related technologies. His expertise extends to cloud backup solutions, secure data storage and the broader spectrum of cloud services. His educational background enables him to demystify technical topics, making them accessible and empowering for technology enthusiasts. The most well-known method of accessing the dark web is through Tor browser. The dark web sites on Tor have .onion attached right at the end of the web address, and can only be accessed by said web browser.
To learn how to access darknet, you’ll need to have a few essential tools and knowledge about the risks involved.
- Tor Browser: This is the most common method to access the darknet. It routes your internet traffic through a series of servers to anonymize your identity.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Using a VPN adds an extra layer of privacy, hiding your IP address from potential threats.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-focused OS, such as Tails or Qubes, that enhances your security while browsing.
- Knowledge of Darknet URLs: Darknet sites often have .onion domains. Familiarize yourself with these specialized sites.
Visit the official Tor Project website, where you can find the latest version of the Tor browser for your operating system. Download the appropriate version and follow the installation instructions provided. Remember that while these precautions can significantly enhance your anonymity on the Dark Web, no method is foolproof.
While NordVPN is undoubtedly a great service, it’s not without fault. In 2018, someone gained access to a third-party data center in Finland. NordVPN responded aggressively by upgrading its entire infrastructure to RAM-only servers and ending its reliance on rented servers. It also introduced a bug bounty program, hired a cybersecurity consulting firm to test its infrastructure, and then carried out a third-party security audit. While Tor is perfectly legal to use, it’s common knowledge that a lot of criminal activity does happen on it.
As a general rule, you should always use a VPN and only use Tor when you need to. A VPN protects your privacy without making it hard for you to browse the web and use the internet as you normally would. Choose Tor when you need to stay anonymous or want to get to the dark web. Because of this, it’s always advised to have a VPN (Virtual Private Network) active to keep your device and information safe.
Whistleblowers, journalists, activists, and political dissidents often rely on the Dark Web to communicate securely and protect their identities. The Dark Web can provide an avenue for free speech and privacy in places where their rights are restricted. Accessing the Dark Web requires this level of anonymity and security, and that’s where Tor becomes essential. The websites on the Dark Web have a special .onion suffix and are not accessible through regular browsers.
Mail providers Mailbox.org and Protonmail can also be accessed via an .onion link. This may be welcome news to those in states where security services have attempted to block ‘anonymous’ email websites like these from the open web. Since Tor can be used to access websites governments try to block, the dark web can be a useful tool for people living under dictatorships to access western media. The term ‘deep web’ doesn’t mean anything nefarious – it’s estimated to make up about 99% of the entire web. It refers to the unindexed web databases and other content that search engines can’t crawl through and catalog. The deep web is like an archive, containing an unsorted pile of websites and resources that are largely inaccessible to normal users.
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. Putting a stop to this kind of crime has been described as a “never-ending game of whack-a-mole” for law enforcement. But even with the odds seemingly stacked against it, the anonymity of the dark web can sometimes play to the law’s advantage. No ID and no location means you never really know who’s communicating with you. It’s also possible to anonymously surf the Clearnet with Tor browser. Tor is short for “The Onion Router”, which relates to how the software operates.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Access Darknet
Follow these steps to safely access the darknet:
- Install a reliable VPN to protect your identity and data.
- Download and install the Tor Browser from the official website.
- Open the Tor Browser, and adjust the security settings to your preference.
- Enter a .onion URL in the browser to access darknet sites.
- Exercise caution and avoid sharing personal information while browsing.
Staying Safe on the Darknet
While learning how to access darknet is essential, staying safe is equally important. Here are some tips:
- Avoid downloading files from unknown sources, as they may contain malware.
- Be wary of engaging in illegal activities and transactions.
- Use encrypted communications if you need to discuss sensitive information.
- Members of the TOR project vowed to patch network holes and strengthen the protocol.
- There are a few websites like HaveIBeenPwned.com and Experian that allow you to look yourself up for free using an email address.
- The term ‘deep web’ doesn’t mean anything nefarious – it’s estimated to make up about 99% of the entire web.
FAQs About Accessing the Darknet
1. Is accessing the darknet illegal?
Accessing the darknet itself is not illegal, but many activities on the darknet may be against the law.
2. Can I use regular browsers to access the darknet?
No, you need specialized software like Tor Browser to browse .onion sites.
3. How can I find darknet websites?
Darknet sites are often shared on forums and directories dedicated to the darknet. Be sure to vet sources carefully.
4. Will my ISP know I accessed the darknet?
If you use a VPN while accessing the darknet, your ISP will not be able to see your activity.
5. Can I browse the darknet on my smartphone?
Yes, there are mobile browsers like Orbot that facilitate access to the darknet, but they come with their own risks and limitations.
In conclusion, understanding how to access darknet requires the right tools, knowledge, and precautions to protect your privacy online. Always stay informed and practice safe browsing habits.
