How To Access Dark Web Using Tor
Understanding the Dark Web
You may be surprised, but you go to the deep web every day because it makes up about 90% of the entire web. For example, your Facebook posts are not indexed and cannot be found through Google search. Your mailbox and online banking are unreachable through a web browser – all this is a deep web. In other words, these are parts of the Internet that are not themselves hidden, but other users cannot access them. Sometimes the term “deep web” is misused when what is meant is “dark web”. Because of its anonymity, the dark web is filled with illegal services and is used by numerous criminal groups, including ransomware gangs.
An attacker can add subverted nodes to the volunteer-run Tor network and cause various kinds of problems. It is designed for anonymous web browsing, and has various features (and limitations) that help achieve this. The Surface Web (also referred toy as the Visible Web, the Indexed Web, the Lightnet, and the Clearnet) is the part of the World Wide Web that most of us are familiar with.
As a leading cybersecurity vendor, CrowdStrike cautions all organizations and individuals to refrain from using the dark web. If you take the necessary steps to ensure safety and security, the dark web will be a safe place. However, if you use only Tor without a VPN, the risk of compromising your privacy is significantly bigger. While the deep web can be accessed using a conventional browser, getting on the darknet requires Tor and a quality VPN like ExpressVPN. Sadly, free providers aren’t considered quality given their annoying limitations that reduce their usability.
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. The most common way to safely access the dark web is by connecting to a VPN and then opening the Tor browser. Needless to say, it has 3 security audits – 2 from PwC and 1 from Deloitte, both of which are backed by a plethora of security features that millions of users enjoy. All three providers are super reliable and capable of keeping you safe and secure while your browse the dark web. We like this provider because it offers special Onion Over VPN servers that allow you to go on the dark web instantly, as long as you have Tor installed. NordVPN even has Threat Protection, a bundle of features containing antivirus, anti-malware, and an ad blocker.
Not only that, but by using a VPN connection over Tor, all traffic will appear not to have come from a decentralised location, but from the location of your VPN server. This is why the only reason you should be using a VPN to access the dark web is because your dark web browser of choice is blocked either by your country or your local network. Any other reason to use a VPN to access the dark web is most likely routed in illegal activity and there are no consumer rights on the dark web. Exploring dark web marketplaces can provide insights into the underground economy and shed light on the motivations and activities within this hidden realm. However, it is essential to remember that engaging in illegal activities within these marketplaces can have serious consequences.
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. It consists of various websites that require specific software to access, making it an intriguing space for both legitimate and illegitimate activities.
Because of the protection offered by the Darknet and its hidden services, activists in oppressive regimes are free to exchange ideas and organize themselves. Accessing the dark web on Tor makes it much more difficult for police to track your online activity. In the last few years, international crime agencies have successfully worked together to shut down dark web marketplaces and arrest criminals. It’s possible to browse the dark web without ever stumbling upon disturbing content like this.
How to Access the Dark Web
Accessing the dark web requires careful consideration and a series of steps to ensure safety and anonymity. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to connect to the dark web:
- Download the Tor Browser: The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor network. You can download the Tor browser from the official Tor Project website.
- Install the Browser: Follow the installation instructions. Ensure it is installed correctly, as this will be your primary access point to the dark web.
- Configure Security Settings: Open the Tor browser and adjust its security settings. This is crucial for enhancing your privacy.
- Connect to Tor: Launch the browser and connect to the Tor network.
- Access .onion Websites: Use specific .onion URLs to access dark web content. These sites are only reachable through the Tor network.
Not only that, but there isn’t just one dark web; the dark web is made up of many darknets, which can be anything from small peer-to-peer networks to huge popular networks like Tor. Let’s start with a classic installation, by accessing the Tor Project website, via a browser. The default browser that ships with Ubuntu is Firefox, which is what we’ll use.
Ensuring Safety While Browsing
When connecting to the dark web, it’s imperative to prioritize your safety.
- Use a VPN: Although Tor provides anonymity, combining it with a VPN adds an extra layer of security.
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid providing any personal information on the dark web.
- Be Wary of Downloads: Files downloaded from the dark web can contain malware. Always scan files before opening them.
- Stick to Trusted Sources: Only visit reputable sites to reduce the risk of scams or harmful content.
Common Applications of the Dark Web
The dark web is used for various purposes, ranging from anonymity to accessing information that may not be available on the surface web.
- Whistleblowing: Platforms on the dark web allow individuals to report issues without revealing their identity.
- Privacy-Focused Communication: People looking for private communication channels may use dark web tools.
- Research: Journalists and researchers can access sensitive information about government actions and corporate conduct.
- For added peace of mind, your Aura plan comes equipped with a $1,000,000 insurance policy that covers eligible losses resulting from identity theft.
- Using a VPN in conjunction with the Tor (The Onion Router) browser is the best way to access the dark web safely.
- Some antiviruses also include a “sandbox” feature, where you can quarantine files downloaded from Tor until you’re sure they can be opened safely.
- And if they do, you can’t just go for it because it requires additional setup which requires help from the provider.
- Therefore, it’s crucial to use caution and common sense while browsing the dark web.
- Owenson acknowledges Tor has legitimate uses for privacy and circumventing censorship; however, his research suggests the vast majority of activity is criminal in nature.
FAQs about Connecting to 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 the dark web is against the law.
2. Can you be traced while using the dark web?
While Tor encrypts your browsing and masks your IP address, complete anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Using additional protection like a VPN can help.
3. What should I do if I encounter illegal content on the dark web?
If you come across illegal content, it’s advisable to exit the website immediately and consider reporting it to the appropriate authorities.
Connecting to the dark web is a significant decision that entails risks and responsibilities. By understanding the steps and precautions needed, users can navigate this hidden realm more safely.
