Clarke released Freenet, an early peer-to-peer network that facilitated anonymous communication via a decentralized network of Freenet’s users. Most people know about the dark web within the context of stolen identity and personal information. Since the dark web is anonymous and unregulated, it has become a marketplace for selling stolen passwords, IDs, and other forms of private information.
How to Use the Dark Web
- The Tor Browser uses several layers of encryption to strengthen your anonymity and has integrated the DuckDuckGo search engine, a system that makes a point of not saving or logging your search queries.
- That’s known as the “surface web.” Beyond lies the vast expanses of the “deep web” — millions of legitimate web pages that have not been indexed and are thus beyond the reach of standard search engines.
- Unlike other messaging apps, Signal encrypts your messages end-to-end, so no one, including the service provider, can see your messages.
- In theory this should make your deep web browsing (as well as your regular web browsing) entirely private from interlopers.
The dark web is a part of the internet that requires specific software to access and is often associated with illicit activities. However, it also serves legitimate purposes, such as privacy and the freedom of information. Understanding how to use the dark web safely is essential.
Whistleblowers often come to the dark web to find allies who can take their secrets and share them more publicly elsewhere. Government agencies and contractors can employ services like Peraton’s TORNADO to frequently check the dark web to understand if people are talking about them and what they are saying. TORNADO automatically and anonymously combs through the entire dark web every 30 days based on specific keywords that help identify information that may pose potential harm. Exploiting open source intelligence provides situational awareness. Let’s say you want to go on the dark web to see what information of yours, if any, is floating around. You can install the TOR browser on your system by using a virtual private network.
What You Need to Access the Dark Web
Before diving into how to use the dark web, it’s crucial to have the right tools and knowledge:
- Tor Browser: This is the most common way to access the dark web. It anonymizes your internet traffic.
- VPN: A Virtual Private Network adds another layer of privacy and security, masking your IP address.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a privacy-centric OS like Tails, which runs from a USB stick.
- Encryption Tools: To ensure your communications and data are secure, use tools like PGP (Pretty Good Privacy).
If you think you’ve fallen victim to identity theft or fraud, be sure to report the internet scam just like you would any other crime. Whether you post public YouTube videos for fun or profit, interactions with everyday netizens — especially trolls — are an inevitable part of the process. To use the dark web safely, use as many privacy-enhancing tools or programs as you can, and do not identify yourself in any way to anyone for any reason. While visiting any of the sites you find on those Wiki sites, do not maximize your browser, as it can help identify you by your monitor resolution. In this guide, we’ll show you what you need to know about how to access the dark web and how to keep yourself safe while you use it.
Now, you might’ve heard some scary stories about the Dark Web—rumors about illegal activities, black markets, and hackers abound. And while it’s true that some of this unsavory activity does take place, it’s not the whole picture. Many people use the Dark Web legally for a range of purposes, from championing free speech to simply wanting to browse the internet with more privacy.
Many identity thieves and hacking groups make money selling the information they steal on the dark web. Tor—short for “The Onion Router”—bounces information through a series of encrypted layers (like an onion) that offers users more anonymity. There are onion sites and services on the Tor network, and page addresses end in .onion. Even if you haven’t directly accessed the dark web yourself, that doesn’t mean you are exempt from dark web exposure. The reality is that millions of personal information, account records, credit card numbers and other sensitive documents are leaked on the dark web every day.
While ProtonMail has a solid commitment to privacy, its location has caused problems for users in the past. In 2021, it was forced by the Swiss courts to begin logging the IP addresses and browser fingerprint information of one of its customers. While NordVPN is undoubtedly a great service, it’s not without fault. In 2018, someone gained access to a third-party data center in Finland. NordVPN responded aggressively by upgrading its entire infrastructure to RAM-only servers and ending its reliance on rented servers.
Steps on How to Use the Dark Web
If you can find a page with a standard search engine (Google or DuckDuckGo) and visit it with a standard web browser (Chrome or Firefox), it is part of the Surface web. Ultimately, the Dark web has the allure of a place that most people can’t visit. Since you are reading this, we suspect that you feel the pull of this place and want to take a look for yourself. But you’ll have to be careful not to wander into something you don’t want to see. The SECO-Institute are one of Europe’s leading suppliers of cyber security training. They created the Dark Web Foundation Training and Certification, in conjunction with the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO).
Follow these steps for a safe and informed experience:
- Set Up Your VPN: Start by connecting to your VPN service to hide your IP address.
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website to ensure you download the latest version.
- Launch Tor and Connect: Once installed, launch the Tor browser and allow it to connect to the network.
- Access .onion Sites: Navigate to sites with .onion extensions, as they are specific to the dark web.
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information, and consider creating a fake identity for use in the dark web environment.
- Practice Cyber Hygiene: Use updated antivirus software and refrain from downloading suspicious files.
ATM Jackpotting Attacks: What You Must Know To Protect Your Finances
Safeguarding Yourself
When exploring the dark web, maintaining privacy and safety should always be a priority. Here are some tips:
- Disable Javascript: This can prevent exploitation by malicious sites.
- Be Wary of Links: Many links can lead to harmful sites; verify the source before clicking.
- Don’t Enter Personal Information: Anything you input can compromise your identity and safety.
- Use Cryptocurrency: If you need to make transactions, consider using cryptocurrencies for added anonymity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is using the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities that occur there are, such as buying illegal substances or engaging in hacking.
Can I get caught using the dark web?
While anonymity is a key feature of the dark web, you can still be monitored. Using proper tools and following safety practices minimizes this risk.
What can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including:
- Forums and communities focused on privacy rights
- Whistleblowing sites
- Marketplaces for illegal goods
- Encrypted email services
How can I ensure my safety on the dark web?
Utilize strong passwords, keep your software updated, use a VPN, and remain cautious while browsing.
In summary, knowing how to use the dark web safely is critical for anyone considering exploring this hidden part of the internet. By following the right practices, you can protect your privacy and stay informed.
