Accessing the dark web can be a daunting task for those who are unfamiliar with it. The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is often associated with illegal activities, but it also has legitimate uses, such as providing a platform for free speech and whistleblowing.
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Using a Dark Web Browser
Should I change my email if it’s on the dark web?
If you want to update the address, you have to create a brand-new account. Changing your password and setting up MFA should be enough to keep your account secure even after a breach. However, in a worst-case scenario, you might have to create a new email address and update all your details across different platforms.
To access the dark web, you will need to use a specialized web browser. The most popular dark web browser is the Tor browser, which is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android. The Tor browser uses onion routing to encrypt your internet connection and route it through a series of servers, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
Risks And Threats Of The Dark Web
The technology behind this anonymous connection is known as “onion routing,” which utilizes a layered approach to obscure data and protect users’ locations on the network. Tor over VPN requires you to place some trust in your VPN provider but not your ISP, and is best if you want to access .onion websites. VPN over Tor requires you to place trust in your ISP but not your VPN and is best if you want to avoid bad Tor exit nodes. Some consider VPN over Tor more secure because it maintains anonymity throughout the entire process (assuming you pay for your VPN anonymously).
To use the Tor browser, simply download it from the official website and install it on your device. Once installed, open the browser and navigate to the dark web by typing in a .onion URL. Keep in mind that the dark web is not indexed by search engines, so you will need to know the specific URL of the website you want to visit.
Onion sites (aka Tor sites) are websites only accessible on the dark web; you can’t view them using a regular browser. Their URLs have .onion as the domain, instead of the common surface web domains like .com or .net. Onion sites are considered hidden in the deep web, and they use Tor to encrypt connections to them, keeping visitors and the site creators anonymous.
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Finding Dark Web Websites
What is the new name for the dark web?
The dark web, also known as darknet websites, are accessible only through networks such as Tor ("The Onion Routing" project) that are created specifically for the dark web. Tor browser and Tor-accessible sites are widely used among the darknet users and can be identified by the domain ".onion".
Many internet service providers (ISPs) and governments may be suspicious of Tor use, and a VPN will hide your internet activity and prevent anyone from knowing that you’re using Tor. The quickest way to access the dark web is to download and install Tor Browser, which will route your traffic through the Tor network and let you access the dark web. On Tor, you can type in any URL you’d like to visit, including .onion domains on the dark web.
Finding websites on the dark web can be a challenge, as they are not listed in traditional search engines. However, there are a few ways to find dark web websites. One way is to use a dark web directory, which is a list of websites that have been verified as safe and legitimate. Another way is to use a dark web search engine, such as Ahmia or NotEvil.
It is important to note that not all websites on the dark web are safe and legitimate. Be cautious when visiting websites and only visit those that have been verified as safe. Avoid clicking on links or downloading files from unknown sources, as they may contain malware or viruses.
Staying Safe on the Dark Web
Staying safe on the dark web is essential, as it can be a dangerous place. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) can help protect your privacy by encrypting your internet connection and hiding your IP address.
- Use strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all of your accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
- Don’t share personal information: Avoid sharing any personal information, such as your name, address, or phone number, on the dark web.
- Be cautious: Be wary of websites and individuals that seem suspicious or offer deals that seem too good to be true.
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. Scripts and plugins can leave you exposed to vulnerabilities, which can compromise your privacy and security.
- With almost all types of malware, users can be left with a device that’s been forever corrupted.
- Google doesn’t index these sites, but other search engines do, including DuckDuckGo, and there are lists — including one run by Muffett — so you can find what you’re looking for.
- As said, it’ll route your traffic through multiple nodes, which will decrease your internet speed but add to your anonymity.
- China uses what is known as the “Great Firewall” limit access to popular sites for this exact reason.
Instead of your connection request bouncing from its origin right to its destination, Tor sends your request on a much more roundabout route. The Tor network provides a certain level of anonymity, but it is not entirely foolproof. Advanced techniques or vulnerabilities in the Tor network can potentially compromise anonymity. It is crucial to take additional precautions, such as using Tails or VPNs, to enhance your privacy. However, always proceed with caution, adhere to legal and ethical standards, and prioritize your safety and security.
Accessing the dark web can be a valuable experience, but it is important to do so safely and responsibly. By using a dark web browser, finding safe websites, and staying vigilant, you can explore the dark web while minimizing your risks.
Should I delete my email if it was found on the dark web?
Once your data is out and about on the dark web, it's out there for good. The only thing you can do now is damage control and risk mitigation. *Incidentally, there's no central regular internet control agency you can ask to delete your data online.
