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Understanding the Dark Web
However, internet service providers are unable to decrypt Tor traffic, so they cannot know exactly what you’re doing with Tor. Websites are also unable to identify you if you use the Tor Browser and optimize its security settings. Your internet service provider and the websites you visit can detect when Tor is being used because Tor exit IP addresses are public. An easy way to figure out whether a website is on the dark web is to see if it ends in .onion. Normal websites on the surface and deep web usually end in .com, .org, or .co. Websites hosted on the Tor network end in .onion (to indicate the network’s multiple layers of encryption).
You can only access some of these websites with the help of a special, anonymized browser. Instead of ending in .com or .co, darknet websites end up with .onion extension. According to Wikipedia, that’s “the main use of top-level domain suffix designating an unidentified hidden service reachable using the Tor network,” Wikipedia. However, browsers with proper proxy can reach these darknet websites; with a normal browser, you can’t reach there. You’ve probably heard whispers about this mysterious realm of the internet, but do you know what it really is? The Dark Web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines like Google.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It is often associated with illicit activities but also provides a platform for privacy and free expression.
The standard dark web browser is Tor Browser, which directs your browser traffic through the Tor network so you can reach the darknet. As your traffic passes through Tor, it’s encrypted and bounced between at least three relay points, known as nodes. This helps obscure the origin of the data (and makes it hard for anyone to find your IP address). But as a result, Tor Browser will feel much slower than a normal web browser.
Indeed, the vast majority of activity taking place there is illegal. In terms of cybersecurity, the Dark Web is a place where Ransomware-as-a-Service kits and phishing methodologies are traded and leveraged daily. Despite the dark web sometimes catering to criminals, some of the marketplace items are entirely legal. For example, art and jewelry can be found on the dark web (and not necessarily after being stolen).
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web consists of encrypted networks and sites that require specific software or configurations to access. It is different from the surface web, which is accessible to anyone using a standard browser.
Sci-Hub gives access to millions of scientific papers, mostly ones from behind paywalls. However, due to copyright infringement, Sci-Hub is considered illegal and banned in many countries. A favorite of journalists and their anonymous sources, SecureDrop makes it easy to share confidential information without revealing your identity. Many news publications, like the ones listed above, have a SecureDrop on their .onion sites. Founded around 1999 by activists in Seattle, it has since grown to over six million users worldwide. It publishes a newsletter in multiple languages and not only runs onion services for its website but all its email and chat services.
The deep web is the part of the internet you can’t access through search engines like Google and Bing. Also referred to as “non-indexed” content, it’s any content hidden behind some kind of access control such as a log-in or code word. It contains 7,500 terabytes of information, compared with only 19 terabytes of information in the “surface” web. To look at it in a different way, it makes up between 90% and 95% of the internet.
How to Access the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web requires specific tools and precautions. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to access the dark web safely.
According to the Privacy Affairs Dark Web Price Index, attackers can make a lot of money from stolen personal information on anything from credit cards to Netflix accounts. Currently, the going rate for stolen credit card information with a balance of up to $1,000 is only $70, while cards with a balance of up to $5,000 cost $110. “The index shows how cheap it is to get data on the dark web,” says Biswas. Data is the most common commodity sold on the dark web, according to Nirmit Biswas, senior research analyst at Market Research Future. “Account credentials, credit card information, addresses and social security numbers have all been hacked. Someone might not even realize they’ve been hacked, yet their company and employee information could be sold,” Biswas says.
You can also use the Tails operating system to further protect yourself. If you’re just browsing the dark web out of curiosity, Tor, or a Tor and VPN configuration is safe enough. If you’re trying to hide from an oppressive government or want to be a whistle-blower for something illegal, take as many steps as you can to be safe. If you exercise due caution and use a combination of the Tor browser and common sense in which sites you access on the dark web, yes, the dark web is safe to use.
- Download the Tor Browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the appropriate version for your operating system.
- Install the Tor Browser on your device.
- Understand the Risks:
- The dark web can contain dangerous content.
- Be aware of the legal implications in your country.
- Ensure your data is secure and private.
- Use a VPN:
- A Virtual Private Network (VPN) adds an extra layer of security.
- Choose a reputable VPN service that does not log your activity.
- Connect to the Tor Network:
- Open the Tor Browser and connect to the Tor network.
- Wait for the connection to establish securely.
- Access .onion Sites:
- Use .onion URLs to visit dark web sites.
- Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of websites.
Tips for Staying Safe on the Dark Web
- On one hand, it’s a haven for illegal activities, such as black markets, drug trading, and other forms of illicit trade, thanks to its anonymity.
- I’m assuming you’ve heard the terms Darknet, Dark web or Deep web before.
- Crawling is the process by which search engines scour the internet for new content and websites.
- Here’s a look at several of the illegal items you can buy — with prices — courtesy of Privacy Affairs’s Dark Web Price Index 2021.
- Websites are usually labeled with registry operators like “.com” and “.org” and can be easily located with popular search engines.
- On the other hand, the TOR browser is a web browser that uses the TOR network to offer users private and anonymous internet browsing.
While exploring the dark web, it is crucial to remain vigilant. Here are some essential tips:
- Never share personal information.
- Avoid downloading files to prevent malware infections.
- Use cryptocurrency for transactions for additional privacy.
- Educate yourself on common scams.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web
1. Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities on it is against the law.
2. What do I need to access the dark web?
You need the Tor Browser, a VPN for privacy, and an understanding of safe browsing practices.
3. Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web offers a higher level of anonymity, security measures should always be in place to protect your identity.
4. What kind of content can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, marketplaces, and blogs. Some content is illegal or harmful, so caution is advised.
In conclusion, knowing how to access the dark web safely involves using the right tools and being aware of the potential risks. Always ensure you take proper precautions to navigate this hidden part of the internet responsibly.
