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Do I Have To Use A VPN?
Understanding the Dark Web
You can access the dark web to use the onion sites on your phone; for this, you need to download and install the Tor browser and then set up the Tor browser on Android and iPhone. It is not a hidden fact that whatever you do on the web is being monitored. Even if you use a secure browser like the Tor browser, you can still be tracked by using a search engine like Google that traces its users’. Therefore, it would be best if you changed your browsing habits to access the dark web safely.
Dark web search engines exist, but even the best are challenged to keep up with the constantly shifting landscape. The experience is reminiscent of searching the web in the late 1990s. Even one of the best search engines, called Grams, returns results that are repetitive and often irrelevant to the query.
The best way to prevent your browsing activity from alerting authorities is to avoid sites with illegal activity altogether — another reason to only visit sites you’ve researched and trust. Hackers on the dark web can easily access your personal data using trojans, phishing, and other types of fraudulent websites or programs. Sometimes all it takes is a simple misclick before all the information stored on your computer gets leaked. Even worse — cybercriminals have been known to activate computer cameras and microphones to get live streams from unsuspecting victims. To avoid encountering disturbing or illegal situations, I advise against entering darknet sites before thoroughly researching them. I also recommend that you browse the dark web with complete anonymity by using a VPN — just to be safe.
The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. While it often has a reputation for illegal activities, it can also host forums, privacy-focused sites, and more. Understanding how to navigate this realm carefully is essential.
Or, you can trust DuckDuckGo to secure your privacy while browsing since the browser was built to keep trackers at bay. DuckDuckGo automatically connects you to the encrypted versions of websites wherever it’s possible, doesn’t track your searches, and blocks internet trackers. If you post your photos or mention your name or do anything of the sort online, no amount of private browsing can keep your data safe. Even if that data isn’t tied to your accounts or IP, it’s still out there. Your internet traffic will then bounce around the world to multiple other computers and servers connected to the Tor network at the same time; usually three.
How to Get on the Dark Web on iPhone
While it mainly contains various non-indexed sites, there is a possibility to stumble across illegal services, shady shops, and explicit content. There are no dark web regulations, so the place is crawling with various cyber threats. Another popular method is to use the open–source Orbot app, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.
Tor directs Internet traffic consisting of more than seven thousand relays. This helps you hide a user’s location and stops anyone from conducting traffic analysis or network surveillance. Brave’s easy-to-use browser blocks ads by default, making the Web cleaner, faster, and safer for people all over the world. Our team of experts thoroughly test each service, evaluating it for features, usability, security, value for money and more.
Accessing the dark web on an iPhone is not as straightforward as using a standard web browser. Here are the steps to guide you:
For this reason, you do use this app to connect to the dark web at your own risk. Knowing how to access the dark web can be of significant benefit if you are trying to bypass censorship and gain access to information that has been blocked by the government. And it can allow you to exchange information securely if you are a whistleblower who wants to remain anonymous. If you have a legitimate or viable need to access the dark web, you’ll want to make sure you stay safe if you decide to use it. Malicious software — i.e. malware — is fully alive all across the dark web.
Step 1: Use a VPN
Before accessing the dark web, it’s crucial to secure your connection. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, enhancing your privacy. Choose a reputable VPN service.
Step 2: Download Tor Browser
The most common method to access the dark web is through the Tor browser. Unfortunately, there’s no official Tor browser for iOS devices. However, you can still use third-party applications that support Tor, such as:
- Onion Browser – An open-source browser specifically designed for iOS.
- Night Owl – A more user-friendly alternative.
Step 3: Set Up the Browser
Once you download your chosen app, follow these steps:
- Open the app and select the connection method (usually, it will connect automatically to the Tor network).
- Familiarize yourself with the settings available for enhanced privacy.
Step 4: Access .onion Sites
To browse the dark web, you’ll need to access websites with the .onion domain. You can find lists of such sites through various forums. Remember, some sites can be dangerous or illegal, so proceed cautiously.
Safety Tips
When navigating the dark web, safety should be your top priority. Here are some important tips:
- Never share personal information.
- Use encrypted communication tools.
- Be aware of potential scams and illegal activities.
- Regularly update your security settings and software.
FAQs
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is legal; however, engaging in illegal activities is not. Always adhere to the law while browsing.
- If you need to log in to an account on Private Mode, have a throwaway account that you don’t care about getting tracked.
- First things first, head over to the App Store and search for “Onion Browser.” This app is specifically designed for iOS devices and provides a secure gateway into the Tor network.
- Whether it’s an email service, private messages on Facebook, or other common internet activities, we’re all involved in some way in the dark web.
- It’s found in the deep web – an unindexed section of the internet that requires a specialized browser to access.
Can I get tracked while on the dark web?
While the dark web provides a level of anonymity, it’s not foolproof. Use a VPN alongside Tor to minimize tracking risks.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
Immediately exit the site and consider reporting it to the appropriate authorities. Engaging with illegal content can have serious legal consequences.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web on your iPhone requires careful preparation and awareness of the risks involved. By following the steps outlined and prioritizing your safety, you can navigate this unique part of the internet more securely.