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The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory funded a project called The Onion Router (TOR). TOR offered intelligence sources a way to communicate easily and safely, especially in hostile areas where personal safety is key. It is now one of the most common browsers used to access the dark web, using databases to help people make their way around and find the information they need.
The second thing you need to know before searching the dark net is most of it is incredibly boring. Expect to find tons of abandoned websites, dead links, and crap as you sift through your search results. Unless you know where you’re looking, expect to do a lot of searching before you find something worth looking at. If you don’t have it, head over to TorProject.com, download the browser, and install it.
Understanding the Dark Web
Malicious software — i.e. malware — is fully alive all across the dark web. It is often offered in some portals to give threat actors the tools for cyberattacks. However, it also lingers all across the dark web to infect unsuspecting users just like it does on the rest of the web. Venturing further into the deep web does bring a bit more danger to the light.
This part of the internet is notorious for illegal activities, facilitated by the anonymity it offers. Crimes range from data theft and selling illegal goods for cryptocurrencies to human trafficking and more severe offenses. The Deep Web, also known as the Invisible Web, is a portion of the web not reached by standard search engines such as Google and Bing. Less than 10% of the web is indexed by search engines with the remaining 90% of web content called the Deep Web. If you browse the dark web using the Tor Browser, your IP address will be hidden from the sites you visit.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. Many users access the dark web for various motives, from privacy concerns to illegal activities.
Why Search the Dark Web?
Tor over VPN also doesn’t protect users from malicious Tor exit nodes. Because Tor nodes are made up of volunteers, not all of them play by the rules. The final relay before your traffic goes to the destination website is known as the exit node.
Knowing how to fine-tune your search, so you transform a generic query into a laser-focused data retrieval mission is what it’s all about. This helps you seek out specific Deep Web links amidst an ocean of information. In essence, while the Deep Web is a resource like no other for discerning netizens, it also demands respect. Navigate it with the right knowledge and tools, and you can explore its resources while ensuring your digital safety and reputation remain uncompromised.
People may want to search the dark web for several reasons, including:
- Researching illicit trade and activities.
- Accessing information that may be censored or restricted on the surface web.
- Seeking privacy and anonymity while communicating.
- Investigating cybersecurity threats.
How to Search in Dark Web
Searching the dark web requires specific tools and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to search in dark web.
Step 1: Set Up Safe Browsing
Before diving into the dark web, ensure your safety by:
- Using a reliable VPN to protect your identity.
- Installing the Tor Browser which allows access to .onion websites.
- Enabling security settings in the Tor Browser to enhance privacy.
Step 2: Navigating Online
Once your setup is complete, you can proceed to navigate the dark web:
- Open the Tor Browser.
- Use directories like Ahmia or Not Evil to find sites.
- Utilize specific .onion links shared in forums or communities.
Step 3: Using Search Engines for Dark Web
Some search engines cater specifically to the dark web, including:
- Ahmia – A search engine for .onion sites.
- Not Evil – Another popular search engine with a user-friendly interface.
- DuckDuckGo (on Tor) – A more private search engine option.
Important Precautions
When searching in the dark web, always keep these precautions in mind:
- Never share personal information.
- Be wary of unsanctioned file downloads or sites that seem suspicious.
- Understand the legality of your search activities to avoid potential legal issues.
- Avoid engaging in illegal activities or making purchases that could result in harm or fraud.
FAQs about Searching the Dark Web
Q: Is searching the dark web illegal?
A: Searching itself is not illegal, but many activities conducted on the dark web can be, such as trafficking or buying illegal goods.
Q: What are .onion sites?
- Only about 6.7% of global users use the dark web for malicious purposes, but it’s smart to be selective about the websites you access.
- Web Developer, Blogger, Creative Thinker, Social media enthusiast, Italian expat in Spain, mom of little 9 years old geek, founder of @manoweb.
- See how many people have cited the article using Google Scholar or Web of Science.
- These laws may cover how to use a VPN, proxy server, or Tor Browser to connect to the internet.
- The link checker lets you test a .onion link to see if it’s active or not.
- Whether you’re for or against using the dark web, it helps to know what it is and how to navigate it.
A: .onion sites are special web addresses accessible only through the Tor network, providing anonymity for both users and site owners.
Q: Can I be tracked while using the dark web?
A: While Tor and VPNs help maintain anonymity, it is not foolproof. Remaining cautious and following best practices is essential.
Q: What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
A: It is advisable to exit the site immediately and report it to law enforcement authorities.
Searching the dark web can be beneficial for certain types of research, but it comes with risks that require awareness and caution. Always prioritize your privacy and safety while navigating this hidden part of the internet.
