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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. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to search the dark web safely and anonymously.
What is the Dark Web?
Is The Dark Web Illegal?
- The Dark Web is like the hidden part of the internet, not accessible through your regular search engines or browsers.
- Cybercrime specialists typically sell their goods and services on dark web message boards, Discord servers and Telegram channels, and are generally paid in cryptocurrency.
- The dark web contains content that’s only accessible through networks like Tor.
The dark web is a network of websites that are not indexed by search engines like Google or Bing. These websites can only be accessed using special software, such as the Tor browser. The dark web is often used for illegal activities, such as buying and selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. However, it also has legitimate uses, such as providing a platform for free speech and whistleblowing.
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How to Access the Dark Web
Is my password on the dark web?
Other Ways to Check if Your Email and Password Are on the Dark Web: Use a Reputable Dark Web Scan Tool: There are several reputable platforms available online that can scan the dark web for your data. Some examples include HaveIBeenPwned, Experian, and IdentityGuard.
To access the dark web, you will need to download and install the Tor browser. Tor is a free and open-source software that allows you to browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing your internet connection through a series of volunteer-operated servers, which makes it difficult for anyone to track your online activity.
Minimize Or Rescale Your Tor Browsing Window
Once you have installed Tor, you can access the dark web by typing in the .onion URL of the website you want to visit. These URLs are long and complex, and they are not indexed by search engines. This means that you will need to know the exact URL of the website you want to visit.
For built-in Tor over VPN functionality, NordVPN operates specialized servers that automatically route you through the Tor network. You don’t even need to use Tor Browser, but keep in mind other browsers can still pass identifying information through the network. Alternatively, there’s IPVanish who claim to be the world’s number one VPN for Tor and comes highly recommended, you can save 60% on the annual plan here. The dark web, or dark net, is a small part of the deep web that is kept hidden on purpose.
Can I check if my email is on the dark web?
Use a free Dark Web scanner to find leaked passwords and email addresses. Aura's Dark Web scanner checks to see if any of your passwords have been compromised. Other services like HaveIBeenPwned can also check to see if your email was exposed in any data breaches.
How to Search the Dark Web
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Searching the dark web can be challenging, as there are no standard search engines like Google or Bing. However, there are several specialized search engines that can help you find what you are looking for.
The best way to find out is to check the “Have I Been Pwned” (HIBP) website. This website allows you to type in your email address or phone number and see if it’s been compromised in any data breaches. If your information has been compromised, then it’s likely that your phone number is also on the dark web. The dark web has no shortage of criminal activity, scams, phishing sites, suspicious links, and malware designed to trick newbies.
- Ahmia: Ahmia is a search engine that indexes .onion websites. It is accessible through the Tor browser, and it allows you to search for websites by keyword.
- Torch: Torch is another search engine that indexes .onion websites. It is the oldest and most popular search engine on the dark web, and it has a large database of websites.
- Not Evil: Not Evil is a search engine that is run by a group of activists. It is designed to provide a platform for free speech and whistleblowing, and it does not index any illegal websites.
It’s not really dangerous if we consider the protection of a VPN service. Generally speaking, most websites are legal and they’re safe to use. But if we’re talking about forums, marketplaces, and other “social” websites and platforms, the darknet can quickly turn into an unsafe place. The deep web, on the other hand, can be accessed with a conventional browser such as Firefox or Safari.
What is a free dark web scan?
The scan allows you to see if any of your credentials have been stolen in a data breach and take the necessary steps to protect yourself by changing your passwords to ones that are strong and unique.
How to Stay Safe on the Dark Web
The dark web can be a dangerous place, and it is important to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips for staying safe on the dark web:
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address.
- Only visit websites that have a good reputation and that are known to be safe.
- Avoid downloading any files or clicking on any links, as they may contain malware or viruses.
- Do not share any personal information, such as your name, address, or credit card details.
- Be cautious of any websites that ask for donations or that require you to sign up for a membership.
Conclusion
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that can be difficult to access and search. However, with the right tools and precautions, it is possible to browse the dark web safely and anonymously. By using specialized search engines and taking steps to protect yourself, you can explore the dark web and discover its legitimate uses.
How to use Tor?
- On the Tor project website, go to the Tor Browser download page.
- Click on the download link for your OS.
- Once downloaded, install the Tor Browser application.
- Launch the Tor Browser application and connect to the Tor network.
