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Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It’s often associated with illegal activities, but it serves various purposes beyond just nefarious uses.
It is a parallel network to the surface web that we use every day, consisting of websites that are intentionally hidden and protected. These sites cannot be accessed through traditional browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. Instead, they are accessed using specific software that provides anonymity and encryption. Most internet users browse content online using the surface web, a segment of the internet where sites are indexed by popular search engines and can be easily viewed using traditional web browsers. While the surface web may represent most of what the average user sees, there are many more layers of hidden content to be found on the dark web.
It’s important to note that the dark web should not be confused with the deep web, which is a part of the internet individuals access regularly. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to different things. Deep web content — which isn’t picked up by search engines, either — includes pages that typically require additional credentials to access. Your online banking accounts and email accounts, for instance, are examples of deep web content. Debit and credit cards, social security numbers, and banking information are just a few examples of the personal data that is stolen and posted on the dark web.
There are different categories — my favorite one is Multiple Choice, where you need to pick the most popular autocomplete answer for a random Google search (like “is it ok to swim with …”). 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. You would, of course, assume that using a VPN to access the dark web would be a no-brainer, but it’s not quite as simple as that. You might automatically ask yourself “do I need a VPN for the dark web,” but to understand why the answer might be no, you have to understand how a VPN works.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a subset of the deep web, which includes any content not indexed by standard search engines like Google or Bing. To access the dark web, users typically utilize specialized software such as Tor.
The dark web is a part of the internet consisting of hidden sites that aren’t indexed by conventional search engines. Get Norton 360 Deluxe to encrypt your internet connection and help protect the personal data you send and receive online. You can conduct discussions about current events anonymously on Intel Exchange. There are several whistleblower sites, including a dark web version of Wikileaks.
The Surface Web (also referred toy as the Visible Web, the Indexed Web, the Lightnet, and the Clearnet) is the part of the World Wide Web that most of us are familiar with. If you can find a page with a standard search engine (Google or DuckDuckGo) and visit it with a standard web browser (Chrome or Firefox), it is part of the Surface web. Some of these are well-known, established threats that circulate in this nook of the web. However, others may be taking advantage of the dark web’s reputation to trick users out of large sums of money.
It’s great how the site has a Security Scenarios section too, where it offers personalized security tips for specific audiences (activists, academic researchers, journalists, and more). ProPublica has a clearnet site, but its dark web version won’t see your IP address, so you get better privacy. You can also use its .onion link via the Tor network to access the site in restrictive countries, where it might be unavailable. There are a few main competitors, each of which offers distinct advantages and drawbacks over the more popular browser. Downloading the Tor Browser is no more complicated than downloading Google Chrome.
Another approach is to use search engines like NotEvil or Torch to find specific sites or topics of interest. Freenet is another peer-to-peer platform that encrypts data before it is being shared. It uses a similar technique to other browsers – which is routing the communication through different nodes. It uses a decentralized, distributed network for encrypting data that is being shared – that is how it becomes very difficult to be hacked.
However, it’s crucial to keep your virtual machine up to date and install antivirus software. Using encrypted messaging services like Signal can help keep your conversations private and secure. Unlike other messaging apps, Signal encrypts your messages end-to-end, so no one, including the service provider, can see your messages.
How to Access the Dark Web
- Law enforcement officials can also set up traps to capture criminals engaged in illegal transactions.
- Covert networks — or darknets — emerged quickly to provide users with private networks to communicate on.
- Another alternative is Freenet; like I2P, it won’t give you access to.onion links — only content that was uploaded to Freenet.
- The Darknet is crawling with scammers, and most of them are waiting for a moment to scam you.
- For Android we recommend Tor Browser, as it is built by The Tor Project.
To safely access the dark web, follow these steps:
- Download Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser, which allows you to navigate the dark web.
- Install the Browser: Follow the instructions to install the browser on your device.
- Connect to Tor: Open the Tor Browser and connect to the network. This process may take a few moments.
- Visit .onion Sites: Use specific URLs ending in “.onion” to access various services and sites on the dark web.
Safety Precautions
When you access the dark web, it is crucial to ensure your safety:
- Use a VPN: Employ a virtual private network (VPN) to add an additional layer of security and anonymity.
- Stay Anonymous: Avoid sharing personal information or using identifiable usernames.
- Be Cautious: Many sites can contain malicious content; proceed with caution and do your research.
Common Uses of the Dark Web
While often portrayed negatively, the dark web has several important uses:
- Whistleblowing: Individuals may share sensitive information about government or corporate wrongdoing.
- Privacy Protection: People living under oppressive regimes can express themselves freely.
- Research: Investigators may use the dark web for studies related to cybersecurity and criminology.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
No, accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities once there can lead to legal consequences.
What can I find on the dark web?
The dark web hosts a variety of content, including forums, marketplaces, and blogs, some of which discuss topics like technology and privacy rights.
How can I ensure my safety while on the dark web?
Using a VPN, avoiding personal information, and being cautious about the sites you visit are critical for safety while browsing the dark web.
In conclusion, understanding how to access the dark web responsibly is essential for any user interested in exploring its vast and varied landscape. With proper precautions, it can be a space for legitimate inquiry and communication.
