Installing Tor Browser Via The Terminal, From The Downloaded Package
The deep web is what lies underground and isn’t just the content that is considered dark. That’s why it’s also called the invisible web or the hidden web. Many dark web websites contain only information rather than the ability to buy or sell something. It is true, though, that cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Monero, are often used for transactions on the dark web.
How to Access the Deep Web
Regardless of being a business, parent, or any other user of the web, you’ll want to take precautions to keep your information and private life off the dark web. The use of the dark web usually means that you are attempting to engage in activity that you could not otherwise carry out in the public eye. However, you can still take illegal actions within Tor that could incriminate you regardless of the browser’s legality. You could easily use Tor in an attempt to pirate copyrighted content from the deep web, share illegal pornography, or engage in cyber terrorism.
Sites and website pages or forums go up and come down, sometimes in a matter of days, adding another element of navigational difficulty that differentiates the dark web from the surface web. Yet what most people think of as the Internet is only a fraction of what is available. The Internet as most people know it is actually called the surface web. The deep web is essentially the Internet – the complete Internet. It is the rest of the Internet that is unsearchable with regular web browsers. A lot of bad content exists in the deep web and can put your organization at risk.
The term deep web refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. This includes databases, private company sites, government resources, and more. Understanding how to access the deep web is crucial for anyone looking to explore this hidden portion of the internet safely.
What You Need to Access the Deep Web
Before diving into the deep web, it’s essential to have the right tools and knowledge. Here’s what you will need:
- By setting up the server correctly, hosts can even mask the location of their servers.
- While it’s not illegal in many places to simply get on the dark web, the dark web is used for some illegal purposes.
- Deep web content — which isn’t picked up by search engines, either — includes pages that typically require additional credentials to access.
- However, the dark web was soon utilized by other groups like drug dealers, weapon traders, and other malicious and illegal corporations, which changed why the dark web was designed.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN encrypts your internet connection, providing an added layer of security.
- Tor Browser: The Tor network enables anonymous browsing and is the most common method used to access the deep web.
- Secure Operating System: Consider using a security-focused OS like Tails for added privacy while browsing.
- Understanding of URLs: Many deep web websites use .onion URLs, which are only accessible via the Tor Browser.
The Tor browser uses the Tor network to bounce your traffic through multiple servers around the world, making it virtually impossible for anyone to track your activity. There are numerous directories that host .onion links and websites, but you should always exercise caution. To access a dark web resource, you will need to know its web address to the letter. These websites will also use .onion top-level domain names, and many of them will be very long, random combinations of letters and numbers. You won’t be able to access .onion addresses using a standard search engine as they aren’t indexed by crawlers. First — and this is strongly recommended — you should install a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
However, you can get alerts when unauthorized activity surfaces on your credit report, or whenever your details appear on Dark Web sites, data brokers’ lists, or even in public records. The Tor Browser is currently available only for Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux. Once connected, you’ll have access to dark net websites called “Tor hidden services”. Instead of “.com” or “.org”, Dark Web addresses trail with a “.onion“. Antimalware and antivirus protections are equally crucial to prevent malicious actors from exploiting you. The dark web is filled with information theft from malware-infected users.
Malware can steal personal data from any surface or deep web website and then sell it to identity thieves and scammers, who use it for illicit activities. Given its anonymous nature, the dark web is also used for illicit and even illegal purposes. These include the buying and selling of illegal drugs, weapons, passwords, and stolen identities, as well as the trading of illegal pornography and other potentially harmful materials.
Steps to Access the Deep Web
Follow these steps to access the deep web safely:
- Install a VPN: Choose a reliable VPN provider and install the software on your device.
- Download the Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor Browser.
- Launch the VPN: Connect to the VPN to mask your IP address before starting the Tor Browser.
- Open the Tor Browser: Once the connection is established, open the Tor Browser for access.
- Navigate the Deep Web: Use search engines optimized for the deep web, like DuckDuckGo or specialized forums, to find .onion sites.
Safety Tips While Exploring the Deep Web
When accessing the deep web, safety should be your top priority. Here are some essential tips:
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Stay anonymous by not sharing your real name or any personal details.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Only download files from trusted sources to avoid malware.
- Know the Risks: The deep web can house illegal activities. Always stay within legal boundaries to avoid serious consequences.
- Use Encryption: Consider using encrypted communication tools if you need to share sensitive information.
Common FAQs
1. What is the difference between the deep web and the dark web?
The deep web encompasses all parts of the internet not indexed by standard search engines, while the dark web is a small portion of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is often associated with illegal activities.
2. Is accessing the deep web illegal?
No, accessing the deep web itself is not illegal. However, some activities that occur on deep web sites may be illegal. Always exercise caution and remain informed about the laws in your area.
3. Can I be tracked while exploring the deep web?
Using a combination of a VPN and the Tor Browser significantly reduces the chances of being tracked, but no method is foolproof. Always prioritize your security measures.
4. Are there safe sites on the deep web?
Yes, there are numerous legitimate sites on the deep web, including scientific databases, forums, and libraries. Always review sites thoroughly before utilizing them.
By following these guidelines on how to access the deep web, you can explore safely and responsibly while minimizing your risks. Always be aware of your digital footprint and ensure your online safety.
