The dark web (often referred to as the “dark net”, “black web”, or “black net”) is a small section of the deep web that is hidden and kept inaccessible to regular internet users on purpose. That means that only 0.024% of all the known pages are findable in Google’s search engine. The users only have access to a fraction of the available data and web pages.
The Dark Web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses. In this article, we will provide a beginner’s guide to entering the Dark Web safely and securely.
What Is Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC)?
What is the Dark Web?
The Dark Web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and are only accessible through specialized software. These websites use encryption and anonymity tools to protect the identity of their users. While some of these websites are used for illegal activities, many are used for legitimate purposes, such as whistleblowing, political dissent, and journalism.
The Hidden Wiki
How to Access the Dark Web
To access the Dark Web, you will need to use a specialized browser called Tor. Tor stands for “The Onion Router” and it works by routing your internet connection through a series of servers around the world, encrypting your data along the way. This makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity or determine your location.
What Secrets Are Hidden In The Dark Web?
A part of the Internet that isn’t accessible through search engines at all, and also much more. On the Darknet no one knows your identity and no one knows who is behind any website. The deep web is presumably 100 times larger than what is known as the “surface web” which is what you and I surf through search engines like Google, Yahoo! and Bing. Most of the deep web isn’t evil in any way, it’s just content blocked from search engines for security reasons. The dark web uses overlay networks (darknets), which require specific internet configurations and authorizations to access. Due to the layered encryption the dark web uses, traffic remains private and anonymous.
To get started, download the Tor browser from the official website (https://www.torproject.org/). Once installed, open the browser and you will be connected to the Tor network. From here, you can access .onion websites, which are only accessible through Tor.
Can I Access The Dark Web With A Free VPN?
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
While the Dark Web can be a valuable resource, it is also a dangerous place. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
Mullvad is one of the few providers that offer the VPN Over Tor configuration to access the dark web. This involves passing internet traffic through the Tor network first, and then through the VPN. It’s a less recommended configuration, though it does offer protection against exit nodes run by those with malicious intent.
- The dark part of the dark web refers to its hidden configurations within the darknet, its emphasis on anonymity, and the private activity that happens there.
- For example, Facebook and the New York Times have websites accessible through the Darknet.
- We have also written our own list of security recommendations here.
- The deep web is like an archive, containing an unsorted pile of websites and resources that are largely inaccessible to normal users.
To find out if your information is leaked on the Dark Web — you can rely on Aura’s identity theft protection service. Details for credit cards carrying a balance up to $1,000 cost $150 on average, while stolen online banking login details (for an account with a balance of at least $100) go for just $40. Every time you log into your email account, check your online banking details, or use social media, you’re on the Deep Web.
Is Tor 100% Anonymous?
Nothing is 100% anonymous online. In the case of Tor, the entry node knows your IP, and the exit node can see the data you're sending. It doesn't pose a risk unless the same entity owns both nodes.
- Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) will encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address, making it more difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
- Don’t share personal information: Avoid sharing any personal information, such as your name, address, or phone number, on the Dark Web. This information can be used to steal your identity or commit other crimes.
- Use strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all of your accounts. This will make it more difficult for hackers to gain access to your accounts.
- Beware of phishing scams: Phishing scams are common on the Dark Web. Be cautious of any emails or messages that ask for your personal information or login credentials.
You may have a good and legitimate reason to go into the dark web. However, it would help if you did so with caution because even unknowingly, you can unknowingly break the law by working online. Dark Web websites can only be reached via Tor, making them harder to track or block. Their activities also change frequently as scammers work quickly to evade their victims’ wrath and avoid becoming targets themselves. Many Dark Web sites may also exist ephemerally when their owners cash out their customers’ escrow money in exchange for cash. They could even go away altogether due to cybersecurity researchers or police investigations, making it crucial that banks undertake an improved monitoring program for activity on this platform.
Conclusion
What is .onion available?
Onion-Location is a HTTP header that web sites can use to advertise their onion counterpart. If the web site that you're visiting has an onion site available, a purple suggestion pill will prompt at the URL bar saying ". onion available". When you click on ".
Entering the Dark Web can be a valuable experience, but it is important to do so safely and securely. By using a VPN, strong passwords, and being cautious of phishing scams, you can protect yourself from potential threats. Remember, the Dark Web is a powerful tool, but it should be used responsibly.
Is it safe to use Tor?
Because of how it operates, Tor is generally safe to use, and Tor onion browser offer several benefits like heightened safety and privacy. Before using the Tor browser, though, users should be aware of any potential legal issues with Tor in their country, and that they could be flagged for its use.