Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by standard search engines, requiring specific tools and knowledge to access.
The major issue with these websites is that a whopping 50 percent are fake, and there’s no way of telling for sure if they’ll deliver or not. It makes up about 6% of the internet, and it’s where you find everything from illegal marketplaces to forums for whistleblowers. You could certainly go much deeper into the topic, but we hope the information provided here has given you a basic understanding of what the deep web/dark web are, how they function and why they exist. More importantly, you should now know how to access these hidden sectors of the internet at your leisure.
It often conjures images of illicit activities, but the dark web also serves legitimate purposes, such as providing a platform for privacy and freedom of speech.
This can have a detrimental impact on your device or, even worse, expose your personal information. Freenet is another Tor alternative, but more of an anonymous place for peer-to-peer content sharing. Users can form their own private groups for content sharing, called darknet mode. Or, they can use opennet mode to be randomly assigned to other peers on the network. However, you won’t be able to use I2P to access as many sites as Tor.
China uses what is known as the “Great Firewall” limit access to popular sites for this exact reason. The risk of being a visitor to this content could lead to being placed on a watchlist or immediate targeting for a jail sentence. Carrying on with the analogy, big search engines could be considered like fishing boats that can only “catch” websites close to the surface. Everything else, from academic journals to private databases and more illicit content, is out of reach. This deep web also includes the portion that we know as the dark web.
Changing your password and setting up MFA should be enough to keep your account secure even after a breach. However, in a worst-case scenario, you might have to create a new email address and update all your details across different platforms. Unfortunately, if your email address has been compromised, there’s nothing you can do to remove it from the dark web. It’s impossible to track down the person responsible for the breach and ask them to remove your data from this unregulated corner of the internet. Firstly, log in to all your financial accounts and check whether everything looks fine.
For iPhone users, the key to accessing the Dark Web is a Tor-based browser called Onion Browser. It’s developed by Mike Tigas, with support from the Tor Project and the Guardian Project. Like Tor, it allows you to browse the web anonymously and access .onion sites.
How to Get into the Dark Web 2024
To access .onion sites, you need a private network and browsers — in other words, you need Tor (more below). When accessing the Dark Web, using a secure browser specifically designed for anonymity, such as the Tor Browser, is crucial. This browser routes your internet connection through the Tor network, providing a layer of encryption and anonymity to protect your online activities.
The dark web is filled with locked-down forums, where information is shared and bartered. The average internet user will not be involved in this world since access is by invitation only. The more nefarious activities on the dark web tend to happen in these chat forums. Because of that, intelligence gathering also tends to require personal participation in these chat forums to get the real scoop. Federal agencies often track anonymous chat participants to glean clues for investigations or piece together a suspect’s identity.
If you’re considering exploring this unique digital landscape, follow these steps on how to get into the dark web 2024:
1. Download and Install the Right Software
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor browser.
- Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor browser.
- Install the browser by following the on-screen instructions.
- Ensure you are downloading the latest version for security and privacy.
2. Use a VPN for Enhanced Security
While Tor provides anonymity, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) adds an extra layer of security.
- Choose a reputable VPN provider that does not keep logs of user activity.
- Connect to the VPN before launching the Tor browser.
How To Browse The Dark Web On A Mac
3. Configuring Tor
After installing the Tor browser, you need to configure it for optimal security.
- Open the Tor browser and click on the “Configure” button if prompted.
- Follow the instructions to ensure you are connected securely.
4. Browse Wisely
Once you’re in the Tor browser, you can start exploring dark web sites.
- Only visit sites ending in “.onion,” as these are specific to the Tor network.
- Use directories and forums to discover trusted websites.
5. Stay Safe and Maintain Privacy
Safety on the dark web is paramount. Here are some tips:
- Never share personal information, including your real name or address.
- Avoid downloading files or clicking unknown links, as they may contain malware.
- Be cautious about engaging in forums or chats; anonymity does not imply safety.
FAQs on How to Get into the Dark Web 2024
- The files are automatically encrypted, and the sender’s IP is not logged.
- Dark web websites offer privacy, anonymity, content, and goods that you can’t get on the surface web.
- Users’ internet traffic is sent through an encrypted network of volunteer-maintained relays around the world.
- Reuters, Fox, NBC, CNN – all of them keep open dark web channels to receive anonymous tips from whistleblowers.
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for various purposes, including protecting privacy, whistleblower communication, and, unfortunately, illegal activities.
Is accessing the dark web legal?
Yes, accessing the dark web itself is legal, but engaging in illegal activities while there is not.
Can I be tracked while on the dark web?
While Tor provides anonymity, it is not foolproof. Using a VPN alongside Tor is recommended for better privacy.
What precautions should I take?
Always prioritize your security:
- Use a VPN.
- Keep your software up to date.
- Be aware of phishing scams and hacking attempts.
By following this guide on how to get into the dark web 2024, you can navigate the challenges and risks associated with this hidden part of the internet.
