Much of the dark web isn’t shady, illegal, or used for criminal purposes. Dark web browsing is often motivated simply by keeping your real identity secure and your online activity private. Depending on where you are, accessing the dark web might be illegal. But unless you engage in illegal activity on the dark web, you shouldn’t have to worry — at least in the US. Connecting to the dark web might draw unwelcome attention to your online activity, though, either from your ISP or your government.
Understanding the Dark Web
Since then, new dark net markets have appeared, offering various illegal goods and services. Today, the dark web has expanded and evolved greatly, working with increased sophistication. The dark web consists of websites and services that operate anonymously and aren’t accessible in the “public” part of the internet. This means that dark websites cannot be found using common search engines such as Google or standard web browsers like Chrome. Dark website URLs end in .onion, and they can’t be accessed with any other type of web browser.
The dark web is a small portion of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access, making it distinct from the broader web. Many associate the dark web with illegal activities, but it also serves as a platform for privacy advocates and those living under oppressive regimes.
Unlike the surface web, there aren’t great search engines for the dark web. You may need to find an onion site’s address on your own, and the names aren’t easy to remember. For example, the CIA’s onion address is ciadotgov4sjwlzihbbgxnqg3xiyrg7so2r2o3lt5wz5ypk4sxyjstad.onion, and the nonprofit newsroom ProPublica’s is propub3r6espa33w.onion. The dark web is a small subsection of the deep web that’s only accessible with special tools, software or authorization.
Additionally, the anonymity of the dark web can make it a useful platform for coordinating and carrying out cyber attacks without being easily traced by law enforcement. The true internet – that which includes content not indexed by these search engines – is hundreds of times bigger. Content in the dark web is designed to be hidden and you’ll need special software to access it. The Tor browser is the most popular tool, though you can also use Freenet, ZeroNet, I2P, and Riffle. McAfee provides everyday internet users with the tools they need to surf safely and confidently. The dark web lies within the deep web and can be defined as the part of the deep web that not only isn’t indexed by search engines, but also requires specialized tools like Tor Browser to access.
- Both are also rerouted to hundreds if not thousands of different servers, which provides users with complete anonymity.
- Unlike the open web, these sites aren’t really worried about being found by on-page SEO tools like web crawlers.
- The deep web includes many very common uses such as webmail, and online banking but also paid-for services with a paywall such as a video on demand, and much more.
- When the dark web is mentioned online, it is usually in tandem with criminal marketplaces and arrests made by law enforcement agencies.
How Do You Get to the Dark Web?
The remaining part is hidden or invisible, but it is not impossible to access it. The dark web is a portion of the “dark net,” a segment of the internet employing encryption and anonymizing technology designed to prevent tracking. In most places, Tor is completely legal to use, though there are some exceptions, like in China and Venezuela. That doesn’t mean you can legally partake in the dark web’s illegal offerings; just that having or using Tor itself is no reason for you to get in trouble. A safeguard you can easily put into place is to not use the same or similar password across multiple systems.
Along with offering an unrestricted search engine list, Torch also prevents web tracking. Similar to using a standard web browser to access the open web, the act of using Tor or a dark web browser to access the dark web is not illegal in and of itself. It is illegal to perform illegal acts on the dark web, regardless of the level of anonymity provided by the platform. The Tor browser selects a route of several stops, or nodes, for the data to follow, and then wraps the data in several layers of encryption to protect it from being read if intercepted along its route. Each layer of encryption also contains the location of one of the nodes on the chosen route.
It was originally developed by the US Navy in an effort to protect government communications. When the Dark Web came into existence, TOR was a natural choice for users to access and navigate this brave (and sometimes slimy), new world. Since the Dark Web itself isn’t illegal, it’s of course not necessary to engage in illegal activity to use it. This usually means doing something illegal yourself to prove your actions back up your words. However, unless you go seeking out this type of activity on the Dark Web, it’s unlikely you’ll just stumble across it. As a result, to use the Dark Web, you need to know the exact URL of the site you wish to visit.
To access the dark web, follow these steps:
- Download a Privacy-Focused Browser
- Install the Browser
- Connect to the Internet
- Open the Tor Browser
- Access .onion Sites
- Maintain Security
The most common method to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser. This browser anonymizes your browsing by routing your connection through multiple servers.
Risks Of The Dark Web
After downloading the Tor Browser, install it on your computer by following the on-screen instructions. Ensure you download it from the official site to avoid malicious software.
Make sure you have a stable internet connection before launching the Tor Browser.
Once installed, open the Tor Browser. It may take a few moments to connect to the Tor network.
Use the browser to navigate to .onion websites, which are specifically designed for the dark web environment. Always ensure you have a reliable list of links as they are not searchable like regular websites.
To protect your privacy, avoid sharing personal information and use a VPN for added security if desired.
Tips for Navigating the Dark Web Safely
- Keep your software up to date.
- Do not download files or click on links from unknown sources to prevent malware infections.
- Be cautious about sharing personal information.
- Access the dark web with a clear purpose and remain aware of the potential risks involved.
FAQs
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for various purposes, including anonymity, whistleblowing, and access to restricted information. Despite its reputation, not all activities on the dark web are illegal.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
No, accessing the dark web is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on the dark web can lead to legal consequences.
What should I avoid on the dark web?
Avoid engaging in illegal trade, sharing personal information, and downloading suspicious files. Stay vigilant about the potential for scams or harmful content.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the Tor network provides anonymity, it is not foolproof. Using additional privacy measures, like a VPN, can help reduce the risk of being tracked.
By following these guidelines, you can safely explore how to access the dark web while minimizing risks. Always exercise caution and maintain awareness of the digital landscape you’re entering.
