Anonymity, Darknets And Staying Out Of Federal Custody, Part One: Deep Web
Understanding the Dark Web with Tor
Accessing the dark web requires a special browser and the use of a virtual private network (VPN) to keep your online activity private and secure. While the Tor browser is the most widely used method of accessing the dark web, other communications platforms like Signal can also be used. However, don’t expect to get the same kind of service and wide-ranging results as you do on Google.
The dark web is often shrouded in mystery and misconceptions. It constitutes a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. To access this hidden layer, users typically rely on Tor, a specialized software designed to facilitate anonymous browsing.
Simply download and install the browser from the Tor Project website, which is a modified version of Firefox available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. You might not know, but when Edward Snowden released information on the NSA’s PRISM program to news organizations, he did so via Tor. One doesn’t need to be an activist, freedom fighter, or criminal to appreciate Tor, however. Many academics and ordinary citizens endorse Tor as a tool to keep privacy and freedom of expression alive in the digital age. Agencies like the CIA are also active on Tor to make it easier to receive tips and information. Bitcoin is often purported as an anonymous currency, but this somewhat misleading.
What is Tor?
So, if you’re looking for hidden websites, you’ll have to use another search engine. To understand how Tor can protect a user’s identity as they browse the internet, we need to discuss the internet. At its most basic, it’s a series of connections between computers across great distances. Some PCs house the data stored on the internet, including webpages like Google, which are known as servers. A device used to access this information, such as a smartphone or PC, is known as a client.
To get started with Tor, you would need to download the Tor browser, which is available on platforms including Windows, MacOS, or Linux. After installing Tor, accessing the dark web becomes a lot simpler. However, navigation is not as straightforward as the regular web because sites on the dark web have complex addresses that are generated randomly. The dark web, which forms a small part of the deep web, consists of encrypted networks that are not indexed by traditional search engines. In order to access these networks, you need specific software such as Tor. The Onion Router, often referred to as Tor, is software specifically designed for anonymous communication.
Tor stands for “The Onion Router.” It is a free-to-use software that enables anonymous communication over the internet. When using Tor, users’ data is encrypted and routed through a series of volunteer-operated servers known as “nodes,” ensuring that their online activities remain private.
Granted, criminals do gravitate towards darknet sites in order to perform unlawful activities. But does that mean that simply accessing the dark web is illegal? If you do ever find yourself on a questionable website, utilizing a good security app, such as Clario, with a built-in VPN and other useful tools is vital. Tor is infamous for being used for such illicit purposes, such as distribution of underage abuse content, drug markets, weapons, stolen credit card numbers, identify fraud or malware distribution.
This illegally-obtained data can allow malicious actors to gain access to confidential data, use stolen credit card numbers, and even bring down the entire remote infrastructure of an enterprise. This anonymity is not necessarily used exclusively for illegal activity. For instance, political dissidents under an oppressive government might use the dark web for communication. Most internet users access the deep web almost every time they are online. Many websites on the deep web avoid showing up in search engine results by blocking the bots that ‘crawl’ the internet to collect information for search engine indexes. The anonymity offered by Tor allows both hosts and users to cloak their identities.
Key Features of Tor
- Anonymity: The primary purpose of Tor is to protect the identities of users. This helps prevent surveillance and tracking by third parties.
- Access to .onion Websites: Tor enables users to access websites that have the “.onion” domain, which are exclusive to the dark web.
- Freedom of Expression: Users in oppressive regimes can utilize Tor to communicate freely without fear of censorship.
How to Access the Dark Web Using Tor
Here is a simple guide to access the dark web using Tor:
- Download the Tor Browser from the official website.
- Install the browser like any other software.
- Connect to the Tor network by clicking ‘Connect’ when prompted by the browser.
- Start browsing by entering .onion addresses directly into the Tor Browser.
Safety and Security on the Dark Web
While using the dark web can be tempting, it is crucial to remain cautious:
- Use a reliable VPN alongside Tor for added security.
- Avoid sharing personal information while browsing.
- Be wary of suspicious links, as they may lead to malicious sites.
Common Misconceptions About the Dark Web and Tor
Many people hold misconceptions about the dark web and Tor. Here are a few clarifications:
- By understanding the different types of content that can be found on the Dark Web, you can navigate it more safely and effectively.
- While the Dark Web may seem intimidating and dangerous, it’s important to remember that not all content on it is illegal or malicious.
- The deep web can help protect personal information, but that doesn’t mean that clever hackers can’t still crack the sits on it.
- Check out the video below to find out exactly how and why you should use a VPN with Tor.
- Although your internet traffic is encrypted on Tor, your ISP can still see that you’re connected to Tor.
- Myth: The dark web is solely used for illegal activities.
Truth: While illegal activities do happen, many use the dark web for legitimate purposes like privacy and security. - Myth: Using Tor guarantees complete anonymity.
Truth: While it enhances privacy, no method is foolproof; users can still be exposed to risks.
FAQs About Dark Web and Tor
Q: Is accessing the dark web illegal?
A: Accessing the dark web is not inherently illegal, but many activities conducted in this space can be illegal.
Q: Can I use my regular browser to access the dark web?
A: No, you must use the Tor Browser to safely access dark web content.
Q: What are some legitimate sites on the dark web?
A: Websites offering privacy tools, forums for free speech, and even humanitarian organizations operate on the dark web.
Conclusion
The dark web using Tor presents a complex landscape. While it can offer numerous benefits like anonymity and access to restricted content, it also poses significant risks. It’s vital to approach this space with caution, informed knowledge, and respect for legal boundaries.
