The Most Comprehensive Darknet Data Commercially Available
Many who access the dark web do so by first connecting to it with the Tor (an acronym for the “The Onion Router”) browser. Navy and made public in 2004, Tor is the most popular dark web browser because of its unrivaled security and privacy. Getting to the dark web is actually a lot easier than you might think—navigating it is a different story. Here’s a quick tutorial on how to safely access the dark web and tips on how to use it. For example, dissidents who fear political prosecution from their governments might use the dark web to communicate with each other.
Understanding Darknet Sites
The term darknet sites refers to specific websites that are part of the dark web, which is a portion of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines. These sites require specific software, configurations, or authorization to access, most commonly using Tor (The Onion Router).
While no one can pinpoint the origins of the Dark Web, it’s now referenced in mainstream conversations about technology and digital security as the seedy source of many security issues. The Deep Web hosts information that usually requires a username and a password to access, mainly for security and privacy-related reasons. This colossal amount of information exists on the Deep Web (or “hidden web”), where almost all online activities take place. Because not all the information you can access online belongs in the public domain.
What Are Darknet Sites?
Private Internet Access (PIA) has very user-friendly and customizable apps, allows Tor traffic on all servers, and provides great security. On average, I had really good browsing speeds — .onion sites loaded in 2–3 seconds, HD videos loaded in 5 seconds, and there was only minor buffering at the start of the videos. SecureDrop is an open-source submission system that nonprofit organizations (NGOs), journalists, and news organizations can use to share and receive sensitive files securely. It’s used by 50+ news organizations, including ABC, Bloomberg News, CBC, and The New York Times. And even if you’re getting something that’s not illegal, there’s no reason for a vendor to ever remain on the dark web.
Before you access deep web sites, you need to be aware of the dangers that can lurk on the dark web, such as viruses or other malware. Sci-Hub provides free access to scientific papers, with millions of documents. Scientific journals often put their articles behind a paywall or charge high fees for access, but Sci-Hub offers open-access to read or download research papers. While it’s a deep resource, it’s also technically illegal in many countries because it violates copyright restrictions, so check out the laws in your area before visiting.
Darknet sites are commonly associated with illegal activities, but they also serve purposes that are not inherently malicious. Here’s a breakdown:
While not the biggest dark web marketplace for hackers, it’s still not a bad idea to monitor this site due to its continued growth. It was created by the U.S Navy with the purpose of helping informants in foreign nations to communicate safely over the Internet. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), in that spirit, released a .onion site so that people from across the globe can browse their resources securely and anonymously. It’s the first major online publication to have a .onion address. The non-profit newsroom is funded by organizations such as the Sandler Foundation and has made countless contributions in the fight for free speech and privacy.
This secure, anonymous search engine doesn’t log any of your search activity. But even though DuckDuckGo doesn’t record (or share) your search history or obtain access to your email like Google does, DuckDuckGo is able to consistently provide quick, reliable, and private results. When we see massive data breaches, like Equifax or Ashley Madison, the stolen data, often ends up on darknet sites for sale. The data stolen in the recent Facebook breach which leaked personal details of 50 million users, ended up on a darknet site for sale. The site it was being sold on was a little like eBay, with a rating system – reminiscent of The Silk Road.
It’s like an iceberg – The visible tip above water, known as the “surface web” represents the familiar, searchable content. But lurking beneath lies the expansive, mysterious “deep web” or“dark net” – the gigantic submerged part that remains invisible to standard searches. The fact that the dark web is highly anonymized and encrypted, however, also attracts illicit conduct. One study[1] estimated that 57 percent of dark websites facilitate illicit activity, according to the RAND report. At various points in 2013 and 2016, large drug sales on the dark net approached a quarter of all cryptomarket drug revenue, the report said. But researchers found most drug sales on the dark web were under $100.
- Illicit Marketplaces: Many users visit darknet sites for the purpose of buying and selling illegal goods, such as drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
- Privacy and Anonymity: Some individuals utilize these sites for political activism, whistleblowing, or discussing sensitive topics while protecting their identity.
- Forums and Communities: Numerous darknet sites host forums where like-minded individuals congregate to share information and experiences.
How to Access Darknet Sites
To access darknet sites, users must follow these general steps:
- Install the Tor Browser, which allows users to browse the internet anonymously by routing their connection through multiple servers.
- Obtain the specific URLs of darknet sites, as they often use the “.onion” domain.
- Navigate to these sites using the Tor Browser, ensuring all security settings are properly configured.
Risks Associated with Darknet Sites
Accessing darknet sites comes with several risks, including:
- Legal Issues: Involvement in illegal activities on these platforms can lead to serious legal action.
- Scams and Fraud: Many darknet marketplaces are rife with fraudulent sellers, risking users’ financial and personal information.
- Malware Attacks: Visiting shady sites can expose users to various forms of malware, potentially compromising their privacy and security.
Frequently Asked Questions about Darknet Sites
1. Are all darknet sites illegal?
No, not all darknet sites engage in illegal activities. Some promote privacy and freedom of expression, such as forums for whistleblowers or political dissidents.
2. Can law enforcement track users on the darknet?
While the Tor network provides some level of anonymity, law enforcement agencies have been known to uncover identities through various investigative techniques.
3. Is it safe to use the Tor Browser?
The Tor Browser can provide a degree of anonymity, but it does not guarantee safety. Users should take additional precautions, such as employing VPN services and following best security practices.
4. What can I find on darknet sites?
Users can find a wide array of content, including:
- It is used in two forms – the “opennet” allows connection to any user, while the “darknet” connects only to friends.
- ProtonMail is based in a privacy-friendly country (Switzerland), and all of its apps are open source, meaning anyone can inspect the code for security vulnerabilities.
- These are always 16-character values prepended to the .onion top-level domain.
- Illegal drugs and weapons
- Stolen information and hacking services
- Whistleblowing platforms
- Political activism forums
5. How do I stay safe while exploring darknet sites?
To enhance safety while accessing darknet sites:
- Use a reputable VPN service to add an extra layer of security.
- Avoid sharing personal information.
- Be cautious of links and downloads.
- Regularly update your security software.
In conclusion, while darknet sites can present enticing opportunities, they also entail significant risks. Being informed and cautious is paramount for anyone considering exploring this hidden facet of the internet.
