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No longer restricted to dial-up, many of us now consider access to a stable high-speed internet connection a critical element of our daily lives. We pay our bills online, check our bank statements, communicate via email, find information, and maintain a presence on social media. Some people simply prefer not to share any information online and use Tor to access normal websites outside the dark web, or to visit dark web news websites and forums. The Tor Project says that of the 2 million people using Tor every day, only 1.5% of them are accessing hidden, or dark, websites.
Understanding the Dark Web
If you receive an alert that your information is on the dark web, it means that your identity, data or asset is at risk. The types of personal information that are at risk on the dark web are credentials and personal identifiers that can be used for identity fraud or illegal access. You want to take action right away to prevent cybercriminals from further exploiting this stolen data. While consumers should take the protective measures mentioned below, they shouldn’t panic. In addition to scanning for data breach information, a dark web monitoring service can be used to classify risks from unknown sources.
- Dark web monitoring is the process of searching for, and tracking, your organization’s information on the dark web.
- It’s also important to unfreeze or temporarily thaw credit reports when applying for a new credit card.
- Internet safety is more than just protecting your personal information; it’s about maintaining your device’s health and securing your digital footprint from possible cyber threats.
- And check your local laws to find out if accessing the dark web is legal.
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines, requiring special software to access. It’s often associated with illegal activities but also serves as a platform for privacy-focused communication.
Plus, you will get reliable advice from Bitdefender cybersecurity experts to help you minimize any negative impact. After reading this guide, you will have a strong understanding of how data transactions on the Dark Web impact your privacy and security. It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available with three months extra free. Connection speeds are very fast, and you should be able to stream HD and 4K content without buffering. Surfshark works well with streaming platforms and is able to access geo-restricted content from the likes of Netflix, HBO, Hulu, and Disney+. NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free day trial if you sign up at this page .
It’s impossible to track down the person responsible for the breach and ask them to remove your data from this unregulated corner of the internet. You can set up your phone, tablet, or a hardware authentication device for each account that you want to reinforce. If an attacker attempts to break into your account using a breached password, multi-factor authentication will ensure they run into a wall and fail. Combining multi-factor authentication with your new set of passwords will help you keep your accounts in your hands. As you can see, the consequences of data breaches are serious, and if you ever find out your data is involved, you shouldn’t brush it aside.
Eventually, the framework was repurposed and has since been made public in the form of the browser we know today. The dark web and the deep web are also often erroneously used interchangeably. The deep web is what lies underground and isn’t just the content that is considered dark. Many dark web websites contain only information rather than the ability to buy or sell something. It is true, though, that cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Monero, are often used for transactions on the dark web. The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.
With the right tools, online habits, and safety measures, you can make yourself a much harder target for identity thieves and online scammers. If you’ve confirmed that your personal information is leaked on the Dark Web, you have an elevated risk of identity theft and financial fraud. Because this offering is so extensive and affordable, the Dark Web is the ideal breeding ground for criminals. 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. While personal information may seem invaluable to you, cybercriminals trade personal information for a mere few dollars on the black markets that exist on the Dark Web. The Tor Browser is the easiest way to access Tor and thus, the Dark Web.
However, several dark websites cater to illicit activities, like drug trafficking. While this doesn’t make visiting the dark web illegal, you can land on websites that infect your device with malware, such as ransomware and trojan viruses. Using a VPN is essential to mask your identity when visiting websites on the dark web. After extensive tests, we’ve found NordVPN to be best suited for accessing the dark web on a phone as it’s mobile-friendly, secure, and offers specialized dark web servers. Knowing if your information is on the dark web is a critical part to protecting yourself from threats. Dark web monitoring tools are similar to a search engine (like Google) for the dark web.
What You Need to Know
Check out our full list of dark web sites worth visiting for more dark web links for Android, iPhones, and other devices. You could also use dark web search engines like Torch or DuckDuckGo to find interesting sites. While the Tor network is designed to be anonymous, it is run by volunteers.
Before diving into how to access it, it’s crucial to understand what you might encounter:
- Illegal content: Many dark web sites engage in illicit activities such as drug sales, weapon trafficking, and more.
- Privacy tools: The dark web offers a haven for whistleblowers, journalists, and others who need to communicate securely.
- Risks: There are many risks, including scams, malware, and legal consequences for accessing certain sites.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
If you’re determined to explore, here’s a step-by-step guide on how do I get on the dark web.
1. Download a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) helps to anonymize your internet activity, adding an extra layer of security before you access the dark web. Choose a reputable service that does not keep logs.
2. Choose a Browser
The most common way to access the dark web is through the Tor Browser. It enables users to surf anonymously.
- Go to the official Tor Project website.
- Download and install the Tor Browser.
3. Configure Security Settings
Before using the Tor Browser, adjust the security settings to the highest level to enhance protection against malicious websites.
4. Access .onion Sites
Only use links ending in .onion to access dark web content. These are specially designed for the Tor network. You can find directories or forums that list various .onion sites.
5. Stay Safe Online
To ensure your safety while exploring the dark web, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid sharing personal information.
- Be cautious of downloads and links.
- Use secure passwords, preferably a password manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts various content, from forums and markets to whistleblowing platforms and privacy-centric services.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Simply accessing it is not illegal, but visiting certain sites or engaging in illegal activities is against the law.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web offers more anonymity than the surface web, it’s still possible to be tracked. Always use a VPN along with the Tor Browser.
How can I protect myself while on the dark web?
Follow safety practices such as using a VPN, avoiding sharing personal data, and staying away from suspicious sites.
Conclusion
Understanding how do I get on the dark web involves careful preparation and awareness of the potential dangers. While exploring this hidden part of the internet can be intriguing, safety should always come first.
