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. Cryptocurrencies and “privacy networks” like TOR have actually a lot in common.
The dark web has gained a notorious reputation for being a hub of illicit activities, but it also contains valuable information and resources that can be accessed safely and legally. If you are curious about exploring the dark web, here are some steps you can take to do so securely.
How To Access The Dark Web On Phone (iOS & Android) In 2024
For those interested in accessing the safer parts of the dark web, there are censored dark web search engines that filter out the more illicit dark web sites. And there are also tools for those interested in an uncensored dark web search experience. If you go premium, you’ll lose the ads and gain additional data insights and access to historical versions of websites. Haystak is one of the best dark web search engines on the Tor network. When you visit dark web sites, you’re connecting to websites on darknets, which are specifically designed for anonymity.
1. Download a Secure Browser
Tor Browser is the most popular choice for accessing the dark web. It routes your internet traffic through multiple servers, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity. You can download Tor Browser for free from their official website.
How To Access The Dark Web On An IPhone
File transfer services are used mostly by journalists and informants to share sensitive information-containing files. The Tor browser’s layered encryption system makes tracking the identity and location of users impossible. People can share files, talk, and blog anonymously in a highly encrypted environment. Moreover, VPN is a good alternative to using the darknet for privacy.
2. Understand the Risks
What Secrets Are Hidden In The Dark Web?
Before diving into the dark web, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. The dark web is unregulated and can be a breeding ground for illegal activities. Make sure to take necessary precautions to protect your identity and data while browsing.
3. Browse Safely
Once you have installed Tor Browser, you can start browsing the dark web. Use search engines like DuckDuckGo to find websites on the dark web. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files to prevent malware attacks.
External Links
4. Stay Anonymous
- The Tor browser uses the Tor network, which was developed in the mid-1990s by US Naval Research Laboratory employees.
- The links above may also change without notice, as onion links get updated often.
- ExpressVPN protects your internet traffic using 256-bit AES channel strong encryption together with 4096-bit DHE-RSA keys and a SHA512 hash authentication.
- IP2 is faster than Tor and offers stronger peer-to-peer security, as it uses one-way tunnels to encrypt traffic — meaning, only inbound or outbound traffic could be intercepted, not both.
- But lurking beneath lies the expansive, mysterious “deep web” or“dark net” – the gigantic submerged part that remains invisible to standard searches.
Keep your identity hidden while exploring the dark web by using a virtual private network (VPN) in conjunction with Tor Browser. This will further mask your IP address and encrypt your internet connection, ensuring your anonymity.
5. Be Cautious
How much does Tor cost?
Tor is free, open-source software that allows you to browse the internet (including the dark web) anonymously. It does this by routing your traffic through a series of volunteer-run servers, making it difficult for anyone to track your real IP address.
Remember that the dark web is not monitored or regulated like the surface web. Exercise caution and common sense when interacting with others or making transactions on dark web marketplaces. Avoid sharing personal information or engaging in illegal activities.
The peer-to-peer routing structure is more advanced, and it does not rely on a trusted directory to get route information. I2P uses one-way tunnels, so an eavesdropper can only capture outbound or inbound traffic, not both. Due to all the nodes that your traffic passes through, Tor by itself significantly limits bandwidth. Adding a VPN to it, even a fast one like IPVanish will make it even slower, so please be patient. Another vital precaution is to ensure that your .onion URLs are correct. Onion URLs generally contain a string of seemingly random letters and numbers.
6. Disconnect Securely
When you are done exploring the dark web, make sure to disconnect from Tor Browser and close all browser windows. This will help minimize the risk of any potential security threats or unauthorized access to your device.
By following these steps and remaining cautious, you can safely explore the dark web and discover its hidden depths without compromising your online security.
Is my password on the dark web?
Other Ways to Check if Your Email and Password Are on the Dark Web: Use a Reputable Dark Web Scan Tool: There are several reputable platforms available online that can scan the dark web for your data. Some examples include HaveIBeenPwned, Experian, and IdentityGuard.