Tor Browser
TOR stands for “The Onion Router”, it got its name from the fact that in order to reveal the core user of the browser you’ll have to peel a lot of layers off, just like an onion. This is probably going to be one of the longest posts I’ve written on 99Bitcoins, but also the most interesting of them all. If you just want to go ahead and learn how to access the Darknet, you can skip to the bottom of the post and watch the video tutorial. I’m assuming you’ve heard the terms Darknet, Dark web or Deep web before. If you have, then you’re probably wondering how one can access these hidden corners of the Internet. In 2021, international crime agencies in the US, Germany, Australia, the UK, and more countries worked together to shut down DarkMarket, the largest illegal dark web marketplace.
Search engines don’t index any of the websites on the dark web, which means you can’t get there by using Google or Yahoo or your search engine of choice. The dark web is known as a place where illegal goods and services can be bought and sold, and for that reason, it’s earned a reputation for being a little seedy and salacious. Unlike TOR, there is no need for a server to host content in Freenet. Users get it in a distributed data store – which is the anonymity provider part of Freenet. Freenet users get involved by giving some of their bandwidth and hard drives.
To do this, you need an email address to register for many .onion websites. It is one of the significant illegal activities taking place on the Dark Web; selling crucial information of reputed organizations is common. Such breached information plays a huge role in disrupting an organization’s reputation. Organizations have to buy the breached data on the Dark Web to safeguard their reputation. In 2017, organizations paid up to US$140 for saving their records from volition and misuse. The premise of this story dates back to the 1990s when the US military began to look for a way to route secure, anonymous, and untraceable communication through a public network.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It comprises a variety of hidden sites and services that require specific software to access. While it has legitimate uses, such as protecting privacy and facilitating free speech, it is also known for illegal activities. If you are interested in exploring this hidden domain, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to connect to the dark web.
Additionally, I2P doesn’t rely on hidden directories that serve as a resource for .onion domains. I2P can only be used to access hidden sites that are only available on the I2P network. Click on “Safest.” As you’ll see, JavaScript and a few other features will be automatically disabled on all sites.
And you should also think about malware protection because getting infected on the dark web is much easier. While the dark web itself is not illegal, participating in black markets is. Selling or buying goods and services on a black market can lead to legal repercussions, even if you’re unaware that the marketplace is illegal. Ponzi schemes, identity theft, credit card fraud, and other financial scams happen there, so if you fall victim to dark web scams, you can suffer significant financial loss and personal harm.
Prerequisites for Accessing the Dark Web
Before diving into the dark web, ensure you have the following:
- Tor also supports various privacy extensions, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to track users on the dark web.
- Abuse and persecution victims, whistleblowers, and political dissidents have been frequent users of these hidden sites.
- You can usually select the location you want to appear to originate from and VPNs will use a collection of servers and relays to make tracing your IP difficult.
- However, we advise connecting to one of our recommended VPN services to stay anonymous.
- VPN Service: A reliable Virtual Private Network to secure your connection.
- Tor Browser: The most common tool used to access .onion sites.
- Strong Security Practices: An understanding of cybersecurity basics to protect your data.
It’s important to note that while these browsers provide anonymity and privacy, they do not guarantee complete security. Users should take additional measures to protect their online identity and personal information when using the dark web. One of the earliest and most well-known dark web marketplaces was the Silk Road, launched in 2011 by Ross Ulbricht. The site allowed users to buy and sell drugs, weapons, and other illegal goods using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.
Accessing the Dark Web requires specific steps and tools to navigate its hidden network securely and anonymously. By following these steps, you can explore the depths of the Dark Web and maintain your privacy. However, it is crucial to remember that the Tor browser, while excellent for maintaining anonymity, is not a guarantee of absolute security. It is still possible for advanced adversaries or government agencies to track and identify users engaging in certain activities on the Dark Web.
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. The exit node decrypts your traffic and thus can steal your personal information or inject malicious code.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Connect to the Dark Web
To safely connect to the dark web, follow these steps:
- Install a VPN
Select a trustworthy VPN provider. Download and install the software on your device. Always connect to the VPN before proceeding.
- Download the Tor Browser
Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser. This browser is specifically designed for accessing the dark web.
- Install the Tor Browser
Follow the installation instructions. Ensure that you are downloading from the official source to avoid malware.
- Configure Security Settings
Open the Tor Browser and go to the browser settings. Adjust security settings to your preferred level (standard, safer, or safest).
- Access the Dark Web
Type in .onion addresses in the URL bar. Make sure to use trusted sources to find links to dark web sites.
Best Practices for Safety on the Dark Web
When accessing the dark web, keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Never Share Personal Information: Protect your identity by using pseudonyms and avoiding personal data.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources as they may contain malware.
- Use Encrypted Communication: Consider using services that offer end-to-end encryption for chats and messaging.
- Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with common scams and illegal activities that occur on the dark web.
FAQs about Connecting to the Dark Web
1. Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is not illegal; however, the activities you engage in may be subject to the law.
2. Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the dark web provides a level of anonymity, it’s important to use a VPN and follow best practices to minimize risks of being tracked.
3. Are there risks associated with using the dark web?
Yes, there are risks, including exposure to illegal content, potential scams, and cybersecurity threats. It’s essential to proceed with caution.
4. What is an .onion site?
An .onion site is a special domain that can only be accessed through the Tor Browser. These sites offer anonymous services and content.
Exploring the dark web requires a cautious approach and an understanding of the risks involved. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate this hidden part of the internet more safely.
