Yes, but you need to be cautious because there are many malicious sites on the dark web. The best way to do that is to get the link from legitimate sources, like The Hidden Wiki. What’s more, you should always use a VPN (like ExpressVPN) with Tor to protect yourself from IP leaks. I also recommend using an antivirus (like Norton 360) to protect your device from malware infections. PIA has servers in 91 countries that all support Tor traffic, so it’s very easy to find nearby VPN servers for good speeds.
Internet criminals buy and sell personal data on the Dark Web to commit fraud. Mohit is a legal and public policy researcher whose work focuses largely on technology regulation. At VPNOverview, he writes about cybersecurity, cryptocurrencies and sports events. However, you can still access the Tor network using alternate browsers, like OrNet or Onion Browser. The deep web refers to the section of the internet that is hived off behind barriers, such as subscriptions or log in requirements. Accessing the deep web requires a specific URL or webpage as well as the necessary authentication details.
Understanding How to Access the Dark Web
Tails never writes anything to the computer’s hard drive, running only from the RAM of the computer, which is wiped clean when the computer is shut down. Users who wish to gain access to such information are protected by the same anonymity the publishers of the content enjoy. Well-known news websites, such as ProPublica, have launched deep websites. Meanwhile, Facebook also offers dark web access to their social network. NordVPN offers a 30-day, no-risk trial subscription when you sign up on this page. This provides a full month’s access to all of the features of the #1 VPN for the Dark Web.
The surface web, also known as the visible web or indexed web, refers to the part of the internet that is easily accessible and indexed by traditional search engines. It consists of websites and web pages that are openly available to the public. Examples include news sites, social media platforms, online shopping websites, and any website that can be found through a search engine.
The dark web refers to a portion of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires special software to access. This hidden segment is often associated with anonymity, privacy, and, unfortunately, illegal activities. However, it can also host forums, marketplaces, and communities that focus on free speech and privacy rights. If you’re interested in learning how to get the dark web, follow these detailed steps to do so safely.
Unlike the regular internet, the dark web doesn’t use standard URLs or search engines. Instead, sites have complex .onion addresses, making them difficult to find without the exact URL. Dark web sites use encryption software so their visitors and owners can remain anonymous—it’s why the dark web is home to so much illegal activity. Over 2.7 million active users browse the dark web every day, and many do so for legitimate reasons.
- In 2020, around 115 million debit and credit cards were stolen from the US.
- The dark web is a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden, requiring a specific browser—Tor—to access, as explained below.
- Based on Mozilla’s Firefox, this browser hides all that pinging about in the background.
- The dark web is an encrypted portion of the internet not visible to the general public via a traditional search engine such as Google.
The risk of being a visitor to this content could lead to being placed on a watchlist or immediate targeting for a jail sentence. On the software end, the use of Tor and other anonymized browsers is not strictly illegal. In fact, these supposed “dark web” browsers are not tethered exclusively to this portion of the internet. Many users now leverage Tor to browse both the public Internet and the deeper parts of the web privately. The reputation of the dark web has often been linked to criminal intent or illegal content, and “trading” sites where users can purchase illicit goods or services. Once a user installs a dark web browser on a device, it functions like a regular browser.
Since this is sensitive information and requires a unique login, it doesn’t need to be made publicly available via search engines. So, why would someone not want their website to be picked up by a search engine? The individuals and organizations on the dark web often engage in illegal activities and want to keep their identities hidden — something that is difficult to do with an indexed website.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin your journey into the dark web, gather the necessary tools:
Can I Access The Dark Web With A Free VPN?
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Protects your identity and encrypts your internet traffic.
- Tor Browser: A modified web browser that allows access to .onion sites.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using Tails OS or a similar operating system focused on privacy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access the Dark Web
- Install a VPN: Before connecting to the internet, install and run a reliable VPN to ensure that your online activity remains private.
- Download the Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser. Ensure that you only download it from the official source to avoid malware.
- Install the Tor Browser: Follow the installation instructions. Once installed, launch the browser.
- Connect to the Tor Network: When you open the Tor Browser, it will prompt you to either connect directly or configure settings. For most users, connecting directly is sufficient.
- Browse safely: Use the Tor Browser to navigate .onion websites. These sites are unique to the dark web.
Safety Precautions While Browsing
While exploring the dark web, it’s critical to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential precautions:
- Do not share personal information: Steer clear of sharing any identifiable information.
- Use secure communication: Utilize encrypted messaging services for communication.
- Be cautious of downloads: Avoid downloading files from unknown sources to protect your device from malware.
- Verify website authenticity: Check for trusted directories or forums to find .onion sites. Beware of scams.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web
Is the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities that take place on it can be. Engaging in illegal transactions or activities is punishable by law.
Can I access the dark web without a VPN?
While it is possible to access the dark web without a VPN, it is highly discouraged. Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security and anonymity.
What types of websites can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of websites, including:
- Forums for discussions on various topics.
- Marketplaces for legal and illegal goods.
- Whistleblower platforms.
- Privacy-focused blogs and news outlets.
How do I find reliable dark web sites?
To find legitimate dark web sites, refer to trusted forums or directories. Engage with the community to get recommendations and insights.
Conclusion
Learning how to get the dark web can be a fascinating exploration of the less visible parts of the internet. However, it is crucial to navigate this space carefully. By taking the necessary precautions and remaining informed, you can have a safer experience in the dark web environment.