Curiosity about the mysterious and often misunderstood dark web can lead many internet users to want to explore its depths. However, venturing into this hidden part of the internet can be risky if you are not careful. If you are interested in learning how to go on the dark web safely, follow these steps:
Step 1: Download a Secure Browser
So, that means that the number of pages increased by over 100 trillion in just over three years. Hypothetically speaking, Google may be aware of well over 200 trillion individual pages (these are obviously NOT all indexed in the search engine). Typically, any reference to the visible web will be to common websites with a familiar internet domain extension.
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To access the dark web, you will need to use a special browser that allows you to remain anonymous and encrypts your connection. The most popular browser for this purpose is Tor Browser. You can download it from the official Tor Project website.
Step 2: Set Up Your Security
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Researchers from Recorded Future estimated that while there are more than 55,000 existing onion domains, only 8,400 (or roughly 15%) of these sites were active. This means that the total network of live dark web sites is only about 0.005% of the size of the surface web. The standard dark web browser is Tor Browser, which directs your browser traffic through the Tor network so you can reach the darknet.
Can Tor be traced back to you?
Is Tor Browser anonymous? Tor Browser is anonymous in terms of hiding your location and browsing activity — but there are limits. Although they can't see your browsing activity or Tor encrypted data, your ISP can still see that you're using Tor.
Before diving into the dark web, make sure to adjust your security settings. Disable any plugins or extensions that could compromise your anonymity, such as Flash or Java. Additionally, consider using a VPN to add an extra layer of protection to your browsing activity.
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Attackers can use tools like keyloggers to gather your data, and they can infiltrate your system on any part of the web. Endpoint security programs like Kaspersky Security Cloud are comprehensive to cover both identity monitoring and antivirus defenses. 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. In case you’re wondering how to access the deep web, chances are you already use it daily.
Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with the Dark Web
For government critics and other outspoken advocates, they may fear backlash if their real identities were discovered. For those who have endured harm at the hands of others, they may not want their attackers to discover their conversations about the event. If an activity is deemed illegal by the governing bodies you fall under, then it would be illegal. However, you can still take illegal actions within Tor that could incriminate you regardless of the browser’s legality. You could easily use Tor in an attempt to pirate copyrighted content from the deep web, share illegal pornography, or engage in cyber terrorism. Using a legal browser will not make your actions fall to the right side of the law.
- Even more of a threat, hackers looking to make a lot of money and profit off people and companies around the world have found a way to do it — fast and at scale.
- Let’s SAFELY access some forum sites on the deep, and check out what topics are being discussed there.
- Due to the value of the private data that is stored on the deep web, it is vital that it is always secured extremely well using encryption.
Once you have set up your secure browser and taken necessary precautions, you can start exploring the dark web. Keep in mind that the dark web operates differently from the surface web. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with its unique features and take time to understand how to navigate it safely.
If you are looking for a search engine to use on the dark web, consider using Duck Duck Go. Unlike other search engines, Duck Duck Go does not track your activity or store your personal information. It is a great tool for finding dark web pages and staying safe while doing it. You won’t be able to search the dark web with a regular browser (such as Chrome or Firefox). Besides, your online activity on such browsers is visible to your ISP unless you connect to a VPN service.
What does an onion link look like?
An onion address consists of 56 letters and numbers, followed by ". onion". When accessing a website that uses an onion service, Tor Browser will show in the URL bar an icon of an onion displaying the state of your connection: secure and using an onion service.
FAQs About Going on the Dark Web
Privacy is essential for many innocent people terrorized by stalkers and other criminals. The increasing tendency of potential employers to track posts on social media can also make it difficult to engage in honest discussions publicly. The dark web first officially appeared in the early 2000s along with the creation of Freenet, which was developed by Ian Clarke to secure users against government intervention and cyber attacks. The system, which is still available today, allows users to express themselves freely without being tracked online. The FBI discovered and exploited vulnerabilities in the TOR network.
- Is it illegal to browse the dark web?
- Can I be tracked while on the dark web?
- What should I avoid on the dark web?
No, browsing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is against the law.
When using Tor Browser and taking necessary security measures, your identity and location are protected. However, it is important to remain cautious and avoid sharing personal information.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading unknown files, or engaging in illegal activities. Stay vigilant and only visit reputable websites.
By following these steps and exercising caution, you can safely navigate the dark web and satisfy your curiosity about this hidden part of the internet.
Why is Tor so slow?
Tor circuits lengthen the connections
So instead of connecting directly to the destination server, a connection is made between each relay of the circuit and this takes more time. Furthermore, Tor tries to build circuits with relays in different countries which make connection travel more and appear slower.
