Do I Need A VPN If I Access The Dark Web On My Phone?
The availability of the CreditWise tool depends on our ability to obtain your credit history from TransUnion. Some thieves will even go through the trash to look for documents containing personal data. Further explore why enterprise dark web monitoring is worth the investment.
For example, users evading government censorship can share information about what is happening in their country. Whistleblowers often come to the dark web to find allies who can take their secrets and share them more publicly elsewhere. Security companies use recaptured Dark Web data to even the playing field against fraudsters. This information comes from infected devices, like smartphones and laptops, that allow access remotely to obtain user passwords or other personal data. Onion sites often use scrambled names that make their URLs difficult to remember, minimizing the odds of being reported to authorities. It’s possible to search the dark web using specialized dark web search engines like Grams or link lists like The Hidden Wiki.
A VPN and Tor should be used together and it is advisable to connect via a VPN to Tor, rather than vice versa, for the best protection possible. However, the dark web has far more uses for organizations and individuals than what a small subset of criminals do under its umbrella. Here’s everything you need to know about this other internet, as well as how to access it. The area of the internet we access daily is known as the clear or surface web. The internet opened the door to a realm of possibilities that permanently changed the business landscape and our personal lives. In a world of bulk data collection, surveillance, and personalized ad tracking, it’s up to us to take control of our personal privacy.
Understanding the Dark Web
We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing. The rise of cryptocurrencies increased the popularity of the dark web, especially for cybercriminals. That’s because digital currencies often provide a great deal of anonymity for people who buy and sell on the dark web. Once a user installs a dark web browser on a device, it functions like a regular browser.
A dark web VPN prevents websites and your ISP from knowing when you’re using the Tor browser. This is good practice generally, but particularly important in countries where the Tor browser is blocked, such as China, Russia, Belarus, and Turkmenistan. In 2008, the Tor Project launched the official Tor Browser, which is now the most popular way to access the dark web. While it’s not illegal in many places to simply get on the dark web, the dark web is used for some illegal purposes.
Internet traffic is protected using 256-bit AES encryption, together with a SHA384 hash and 4096-bit RSA keys for OpenVPN and IKEv2. The company enforces a strict no-logs policy and is based in Switzerland, which has some of the world’s strongest privacy laws. NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free day trial if you sign up at this page . You can use the VPN rated #1 with no restrictions for a month – great if you want to binge your favorite show or are going on a short trip. Whistleblowers, journalists, and activists also use dark web tools — especially if they live in countries with repressive political regimes. The dark web has been vital for social change and market decentralization.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It contains hidden websites and services that can only be accessed using specialized software. This part of the internet is often associated with illegal activities; however, it also hosts legitimate uses for privacy-focused individuals. In this article, we explore how do people get on the dark web.
ZDNET tested the best VPNs available based on speed, number of servers, security features, price, and more. ExpressVPN is our pick for the best VPN overall, thanks to its fast and reliable connection and the wide range of platforms it works on. However, remaining anonymous can be invaluable to protesters, civil rights groups, journalists, lawyers, and other vulnerable groups.
Required Tools for Accessing the Dark Web
- Protect yourself against malicious actors by installing antimalware and antivirus protection on your computer and mobile device.
- “You could also build trust with members of these groups or forums, but that is usually something that law enforcement officials acting undercover do,” he says.
- There are a lot of VPNs in the market, but not all VPNs were created equal.
- Confusingly, ‘Dark Internet’ is also a term sometimes used to describe further examples of networks, databases or even websites that cannot be reached over the internet.
- Even if someone uses malicious nodes on the Tor network to uncover your IP address, they’ll only see the VPN IP instead of your real one.
To access the dark web, users typically need the following tools:
- Tor Browser: This is the most common tool used to access the dark web. It routes internet traffic through multiple servers to hide the user’s location and identity.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN can provide an additional layer of security and anonymity by encrypting internet traffic and masking the user’s IP address.
- Secure Operating Systems: Systems like Live CD versions of Tails or Qubes OS enhance security when accessing potentially risky sites.
Steps to Access the Dark Web
Here is a step-by-step guide on how do people get on the dark web:
- Download and Install Tor Browser: Visit the official Tor Project website and download the Tor browser, which is available for various operating systems.
- Consider Using a VPN: Before starting the Tor browser, consider connecting to a VPN for additional privacy.
- Open Tor Browser: Launch the browser and ensure it connects to the Tor network. This may take a few moments.
- Explore .onion Sites: Use specific URLs, often ending in .onion, to find sites within the dark web. Directories and forums can help with navigating these sites.
Important Considerations for Safety
While exploring the dark web can be intriguing, it is important to prioritize safety and security. Here are some key considerations:
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Protect your identity by avoiding sharing any personal details.
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Many files on the dark web can be harmful. Use antivirus software and be wary of any downloads.
- Understand the Risks: Know that accessing certain areas of the dark web can lead to legal consequences. Stay informed about what constitutes illegal activity.
FAQs
Q: Is the dark web illegal?
A: Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities that occur there are, such as purchasing illegal drugs or weapons.
Q: Can I access the dark web without a VPN?
A: While it is technically possible to access the dark web using just the Tor browser, using a VPN adds an extra layer of security and anonymity.
Q: What should I do if I encounter illegal activity on the dark web?
A: It is advisable to exit the site immediately and refrain from engaging in any illegal activity. Reporting to authorities might be appropriate depending on the situation.
Q: Are there legal uses for the dark web?
A: Yes, many individuals use the dark web for legitimate reasons, such as protecting their privacy in oppressive regimes, sharing information anonymously, or for whistleblowing.
Conclusion
Accessing the dark web requires careful preparation and an understanding of the necessary tools and safety precautions. By following the outlined steps and considering the potential risks, individuals can navigate this hidden part of the internet more securely. The question of how do people get on the dark web is answered through a combination of appropriate software, careful practices, and awareness of the legal implications.
