If you ever discover that your email or any other sensitive information was found on the dark web, first — don’t panic. It’s a scary situation to be in, but it’s not the end of the world, and you can take quick steps to secure as much of your data as possible. Here are a few things you should do to mitigate any cybersecurity risks. Zabasearch is an extraordinarily effective invisible web people search engine. If you want to check what people can find out about you now on surface-level search engines, take advantage of your instant free Reputation Report Card scan.
Understanding the Dark Web
Starting from your email address, a persistent malicious hacker or scammer can scrape numerous details that can be used for financial fraud, identity theft, and many more types of cyber attacks. Despite its menacing name, the Dark Web is not illegal per se, nor is it unlawful to access it. However, the undeniable fact is that most of the activities that happen on the Dark Web are related to criminal actions. This colossal amount of information exists on the Deep Web (or “hidden web”), where almost all online activities take place.
Founded in 2013, the site’s mission is to help users around the world reclaim their right to privacy. This is a superb resource where people can anonymously and privately ask questions. Think of it as a dark web version of Reddit and you are on the right track! It is a good place to get help and ask questions about the dark web when you are a total noob. Anybody wanting to connect to the dark web on an iPhone or iPad is advised that there is no official Tor app at the moment.
Approximately 90% of all websites are on the deep web, and many are used by entities such as corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits. What’s known as the dark web exists within the deep web; it’s an area of the internet that is only accessible by users who have a Tor browser installed. In general, most average internet users will never need to access content on the dark web, although it is perfectly legal to use Tor.
Getting on the darknet requires no special knowledge, yet, knowing how to do it SAFELY is crucial. With the cover of ExpressVPN, using Tor to get on the dark web is an easy task. In this case, you’ll get unlimited bandwidth, impenetrable security, a no-logs policy, and blazing-fast speeds. With these benefits, gaining access to the dark web will be a breeze, which cannot be said about free providers that I simply can’t recommend.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. Accessing it requires specific tools and knowledge. Below, you will learn how to find the dark web safely and securely.
Traffic logs are a bigger concern than session logs, but neither are good. The dark web, an even more puzzling sublayer, exists within this hidden world. It’s designed as an environment to elude detection, where site owners and visitors hide their identities.
- The dark web’s anonymity makes it a safe space for whistleblowers, which also makes it a valuable source of information for the government.
- And just as there are reasons to remain anonymous in real life, there may be reasons you wish to remain anonymous on the internet.
- According to a description from Tulane University, the Dark Web was leveraged by the United States Department of Defense as a means of communicating anonymously.
- This could be to observe patterns, identify new vectors, or simply to create additional pipelines of new .onion URLs to feed into custom crawling engines for advanced users.
- While the dark web is often depicted as an anarchic forum for criminal activity, that’s not necessarily true.
Essential Tools Required
To explore the dark web, you will need the following tools:
- Tor Browser: This is the most common tool for accessing the dark web. It anonymizes your online activity.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Adding a VPN can enhance your privacy and security when browsing.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a live OS like Tails, which leaves no traces on the computer.
Steps on How to Find the Dark Web
Follow these steps to access the dark web securely:
- Install the Tor Browser: Download the official version from the Tor Project’s website.
- Choose a VPN: Select a reliable VPN provider and install its software.
- Connect to the VPN: Always connect to the VPN before opening the Tor Browser.
- Open the Tor Browser: This will connect you to the Tor network.
- Navigate the Dark Web: Use .onion sites to access content unique to the dark web.
Finding Dark Web Links
Once you’ve accessed the dark web through the Tor Browser, you will need links to navigate:
- Dark Web Directories: Websites like The Hidden Wiki offer lists of dark web sites.
- Forums and Communities: Engage with community forums where users share links.
- Specialized Search Engines: Tools like Ahmia or Not Evil can help find specific content.
Dynamic MTU: How We Fixed A Common Cause Of Browsing Problems
Safety Precautions
When accessing the dark web, safety should be your priority:
- Never share personal information.
- Do not download files unless you trust the source.
- Be wary of scams and phishing attacks.
- Use encrypted communication tools when interacting with others.
FAQs about the Dark Web
What is the purpose of the dark web?
The dark web serves various purposes, including privacy for political activism, illegal trade, and forums for sensitive discussions.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web can lead to legal consequences.
Can you get caught while browsing the dark web?
While the Tor network provides anonymity, there are still risks. Law enforcement can track users involved in illegal activities, so exercise caution.
How do I exit the dark web safely?
Simply close the Tor Browser and any associated applications. It’s also advisable to disconnect your VPN for added safety.
By following the above guidelines on how to find the dark web, you can navigate it while minimizing risks to your privacy and security.
