Traditional search engines return results because they contain indexes of links to websites. The dark web is a hub for threat actors’ activity; users can endanger themselves when they engage with malicious actors or fail to take the necessary steps to protect themselves. Careless usage of the dark web can expose a user’s personally identifiable information (PII); users could even discover that their PIIs were leveraged in illegal transactions without their knowledge. Risk also arises when a user downloads pirated content containing malware like trojans, worms, and keyloggers, allowing themselves to be tracked and monitored. The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. You’ve no doubt heard talk of the “dark web” as a hotbed of criminal activity — and it is.
With the rise of technology, accessing information has never been easier. However, there is a hidden side of the internet known as the dark web, where illegal activities thrive and dangers lurk for unsuspecting users.
Can I access websites on the dark web on my phone, iPad, or Chromebook?
Not everyone who heads below the surface web, however, is trying to buy stolen passwords or rent a botnet for hire. Some Tor users are simply trying to read the news, access an ad-free search experience or play a game of chess. But while browsing the dark web won’t get you into any legal trouble, engaging in illicit activities would.
What is a Dark Web Site?
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The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google. It requires special software, such as Tor, to access. Dark web sites are known for their anonymity, making them a breeding ground for illegal activities such as drug trafficking, weapons sales, and human trafficking.
- NordVPN’s Double VPN feature routes traffic through two servers instead of one.
- Your traffic is relayed and encrypted three times as it passes over the Tor network.
- The dark web helps people to express themselves publicly without compromising their identity.
- A host is basically a website’s house, or where it lives and takes up space.
- Freenet allows users to create a peer-to-peer platform with free storage space collectively.
The Risks of Visiting Dark Web Sites
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When you visit a dark web site, you are putting yourself at risk of encountering harmful content or becoming a victim of cybercrime. Hackers often target visitors to dark web sites, attempting to steal personal information or infect devices with malware.
Various studies have estimated the language breakdown of the surface web, but such measurements of the dark web are rare. Spidering the Tor network provides a way to measure the breakdown of written languages on onion sites. We estimate that English is the main language for 86% of onion sites, a higher proportion than the surface web, in which English accounts for only 54%.
Protecting Yourself from Dark Web Dangers
To protect yourself from the dangers of accessing dark web sites, it is important to use caution when browsing online. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files. Additionally, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and keep your data secure.
How to stay safe on the dark web
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. When viewed through this lens, the dark web’s legality is based on how you as a user engage with it.
While the dark web may offer access to information that is not readily available on the surface web, it is crucial to be aware of the risks involved. By taking precautions and staying informed, you can navigate the internet safely and protect yourself from potential harm.
