How to Access the Dark Web Safely

However, because it’s almost completely anonymous, there are a lot of illegal images, information, products, and services on the dark web. Attempting to even view these can be illegal in many countries and states, so stay well clear of them if you want to keep a clean record and conscience. It’s generally portrayed as an evil, hidden place where criminals communicate and engage in illegal activities away from the law. Although that’s partially true, there are plenty of good reasons to access the dark web, and a major benefit is anonymity. This rule shouldn’t just apply when shopping or banking online; all online activities could put your security at risk from cyber criminals who roam the Dark Web looking for victims. Be wary when clicking suspicious links or downloading malware – especially on social media!

The dark web can be a dangerous place, filled with illegal activities and cybercriminals. However, it can also be a valuable resource for researchers, journalists, and activists who need to maintain their anonymity. If you’re thinking of accessing the dark web, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to protect your privacy and security.

Zero Accountability

What is the Dark Web?

Unless you’re a security expert, never open files retrieved from the dark web. Do NOT perform other activities using the surfer account aside from running the VPN and VM. Enter absolutely no personal information in the surfer account and particularly in the VM.

Can I Access The Dark Web On My Mobile Device?

The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers. It requires special software, such as the Tor browser, to access. The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, weapons sales, and hacking. However, it also hosts legitimate websites and forums that are only accessible through the Tor network.

Why Use the Dark Web?

Can I Access The Dark Web With A VPN?

• On mobile devices, you’ll need to download specific software to access the dark web safely.
• This is the reason we must use a VPN to hide our identity while accessing the dark web.
• I still believe that going into Tor without dark web links at hand is a fool’s errand.
• 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.
• I strongly advise all users who want to access the dark web on their iPhones to utilize a VPN because it provides additional protection and privacy.

There are several reasons why someone might want to use the dark web. For instance, journalists and activists may use it to communicate with sources and protect their identities. Researchers may use it to study online criminal activity or access information that is censored in their country. However, it’s important to note that the dark web can be dangerous, and accessing it comes with risks.

How To Access The Deep Web Safely

Instead, everything stays internal on the Tor network, which provides security and privacy to everyone equally. When you connect to a VPN and then fire up the Tor browser, outgoing internet traffic first goes through the VPN, and then through the Tor network. This setup is called Tor over VPN, and if you want to use a VPN while on the dark web, is the preferred option. Your ISP cannot detect that Tor is being used, but websites and other online services can see your traffic coming from a Tor exit node.

How to Access the Dark Web Safely

If you decide to access the dark web, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions to protect your privacy and security. Here are some steps you can take:

• Use a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) can help mask your IP address and encrypt your internet connection. This can make it more difficult for cybercriminals to track your online activity.

Your internet service provider still won’t see your IP address, but they will know that you are using Tor. There are ways to access the dark web without Tor, but they offer different levels of accessibility and security. However, with any browser you use, there are risks involved in using the dark web so I advise that you browse with the added security of a VPN. You can access Tor on your phone or iPad (not advised) — but not on Chromebook.

• Use the Tor browser: The Tor browser is a free software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. It routes your internet connection through a series of servers, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
• Avoid downloading files: Downloading files from the dark web can be risky, as they may contain malware or viruses. Only download files from trusted sources.

This is because when a victim’s computer is infected by ransomware, attackers demand ransom through dark websites. Therefore, they provide onion.ly links so victims can access dark websites with regular browsers. Please refer to our article on LockBit 3.0 ransomware case study, where we determine how ransomware is distributed and what must be done to prevent it. The onion.ly domain is a proxy server domain address provided by Tor2Web.

• Use strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for each of your online accounts. This can help prevent cybercriminals from gaining access to your personal information.
• Be cautious of phishing scams: Phishing scams are common on the dark web. Be wary of any emails or messages that ask for your personal information or login credentials.

Conclusion

Accessing the dark web can be a valuable resource for researchers, journalists, and activists who need to maintain their anonymity. However, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to protect your privacy and security. By using a VPN, the Tor browser, avoiding downloading files, using strong passwords, and being cautious of phishing scams, you can minimize the risks of accessing the dark web.