The dark web was once the province of hackers, law enforcement officers, and cybercriminals. However, new technology like encryption and the anonymization browser software, Tor, now makes it possible for anyone to dive dark if they’re interested. If we continue to visualize the entire web like an iceberg, the open web would be the top portion that’s above the water.
Understanding the Dark Web: A Comprehensive Guide
Reportedly, an attacker has been adding thousands of compromised nodes to the Tor network since January 2020. Tor network exit nodes strip off the final layer of encryption protecting a message before sending it on to its final destination. This means the node can see the contents of the message, even though it doesn’t know who sent the message. While many people trust the Tor network to provide them with anonymity while using the internet, the network is not perfect. It has been hacked, and there are other ways that hostile forces (from hackers to national security agencies) have been able to compromise the security of the Tor network.
According to the 2021 Dark Web Price Index, these are typical prices, in U.S. dollars, of goods and services sold on the dark web. While the terms dark web and deep web are often used interchangeably, they are two very distinct concepts. While Tor by itself is a robust and secure privacy tool, combining it with a VPN is an ironclad way to ensure that your privacy isn’t compromised.
I also recommend using an antivirus (like Norton 360) to protect your device from malware infections. Staying safe on the dark web requires even more vigilance than the public internet. Scammers and criminals are lurking everywhere to take advantage of the unwary.
The free plan comes with Tor-friendly servers in the US, the Netherlands, Romania, Poland, and Japan. This makes it hard to connect to nearby servers, so you might experience noticeable slowdowns — luckily, you get access to VPN Accelerator, which can boost speeds on distant servers. Surfshark is also really user-friendly, as its apps are all intuitive and make it very simple to find and connect to servers. CyberGhost is a great choice if you’re new to VPNs, as it has user-friendly apps for all major platforms. The apps have an intuitive interface that makes it simple to find and connect to a VPN server to start securely surfing the dark web. Also, all settings and features have helpful explanations, which is great.
The term browse the dark web often evokes curiosity and concern. The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and is accessible only through specific software, mainly Tor. This hidden section of the internet has gained notoriety, but it also hosts a wealth of information and resources.
A VPN Is Needed For Absolute Anonymity
What Is the Dark Web?
Dark Web websites host illegal activities like drug and weapon marketplaces, accessible via search browser programs like Tor which obscure network addresses. Contrary to popular belief, not every single dark web site is infested with users who sell drugs and weapons. There are many websites on the dark web, from secure email services to news outlets, online libraries, and everything in between. Of course, there are shady places as well, but as long as you use common sense, you can easily stay out of legal trouble on the dark web.
The dark web is a small portion of the deep web, which itself is a segment of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines like Google or Bing. Here are some key points to understand:
- It consists of websites that require specific software to access, such as Tor.
- Many of these websites operate anonymously, providing a layer of privacy for both users and operators.
- It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for free speech and political activism.
Some countries and governments implement strict online censorship and block access to foreign news outlets. The BBC website is a prime example of a news source that isn’t accessible in certain oppressive countries. Needless to say, even with a VPN, we strongly discourage you from visiting illegal dark web sites. There are plenty of cases of child pornography, hacker sites, and illegal chatrooms on the dark web. Moreover, Ahmia can also be used to view statistics, insights, and news about the Tor network.
How to Browse the Dark Web Safely
If you’re considering to browse the dark web, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are essential precautions to take:
- Use a VPN: Before accessing the dark web, utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your IP address.
- Employ Tor Browser: Download the Tor Browser from its official website to ensure a secure browsing experience.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never disclose personal details while navigating.
- Be Wary of Links: Many sites on the dark web can lead to malware or scams, so exercise caution.
Reasons to Explore the Dark Web
While many people focus on the dangers, there are legitimate reasons to browse the dark web:
- To Combat Censorship: Individuals in oppressive regimes may use the dark web to access information and communicate freely.
- Whistleblowing: Platforms on the dark web allow whistleblowers to share sensitive information without revealing their identity.
- Collecting Information: Researchers and journalists may explore the dark web to gather data and insights on specific topics.
Myths About the Dark Web
Numerous myths surround the dark web, leading to misunderstanding. Here are a few:
- Myth: The dark web is only for illegal activities.
Fact: While illegal activities are present, it also supports free expression and anonymity. - Myth: Browsing the dark web is inherently illegal.
Fact: Simply accessing the dark web is not illegal; it depends on what you’re doing there. - Myth: The dark web is entirely anonymous.
Fact: While it does offer anonymity, users can still be tracked if precautions aren’t taken.
- This approach helps mitigate risk and reduce the chances of another security event occurring again.
- There are many ways to access the Dark Web, including one technique known as onion routing.
- IBM Security X-Force, for example, reported that 29% of its ransomware engagements in 2020 involved REvil.
- Sites on the surface web are also indexable and can be easily found using search engines.
- Using the Tor browser is simple, but knowing when to fire it up is more complicated.
- 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 the Dark Web
Q: Is it illegal to browse the dark web?
A: No, browsing the dark web is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities is against the law.
Q: What do I need to access the dark web?
A: You’ll need the Tor Browser and a reliable VPN to ensure your privacy and security.
Q: Can I be tracked while on the dark web?
A: Yes, if you do not take the necessary precautions, you could potentially be tracked.
Q: Are there legitimate websites on the dark web?
A: Yes, there are various legitimate resources on the dark web, including forums for support and privacy-focused services.
Conclusion
Exploring the dark web can be intriguing, but it is essential to approach it carefully and responsibly. When you browse the dark web, always prioritize your safety and stay informed about the potential risks. Whether you’re seeking information, advocating for free speech, or simply curious, understanding the complexities of the dark web enhances your experience.
