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Understanding the Dark Web
It is not a TOR browser, and accordingly should not be used to navigate the darknet. There are many dangers in the dark web, with all sorts of malware seeking access to your files and malicious ads and trackers profiling your online presence. Alongside security measures, it also keeps a detailed log of threats it has prevented, and where they originated from, so you know what sites to avoid in the future. Any good IT article on computers and network security will address the importance of strong, secure passwords. However, the challenge of good passwords is that most people have a hard time remembering them, so they use simple or obvious ones that pose a security risk. The above description is accurate, but unfortunately, it is a casual oversimplification of a dangerous area of the Internet.
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software and configurations to access. Accessing the dark web can provide users with a wealth of information, but it also comes with significant risks.
In general, most average internet users will never need to access content on the dark web, although it is perfectly legal to use Tor. The wonders of Flash and JavaScript make the internet very convenient nowadays. JavaScript is the reason Google can suggest search results in real time while you’re typing because it’s able to see your keystrokes, one by one. This is just one of the various ways that scripts can collect more information from users that could potentially compromise your security.
As a result, you may get slower browsing speeds, but you’ll not leave a trail on the internet. You can also use the Tor browser with a VPN to access the dark web. It is called Onion over VPN when you connect to a VPN first and then launch Tor to browse the web. Once you start exploring, you’ll see many mainstream services have official dark web addresses too. Facebook, the CIA, BBC News, and HuffPost are some services that have a presence there. These services have a .onion domain that lets you visit these sites via the Tor browser.
How to Access Dark Web on iPhone
Sites like ProPublica and Secure Drop are fundamental to investigative journalism. If you get NordVPN, you can also use the Tor network whenever you want with its Onion over VPN servers. These are special servers from NordVPN that first hide your IP address and then route your traffic through the Tor network. Norton 360, our leading antivirus, prevents malicious files from being downloaded on your devices via its firewall. It also offers a dedicated dark web monitor that alerts you if your stolen data is found in a dark web data leak. NordVPN offers obfuscated servers in several countries, including Germany, Spain, Hong Kong, and the United States.
- Dark web sites can track your location (using GPS or WiFi location tracking) and access other information easily when you’re using a mobile device.
- It’s more difficult to identify scams on the dark web since you can’t Google whether a certain site is known to engage in phishing and other scams.
- We recommend choosing the highest security configuration, even if features and elements like videos may not work properly.
- Despite the dark web sometimes catering to criminals, some of the marketplace items are entirely legal.
- Also, it might seem impossible for a layman to approach the dark web directory.
- We do not claim, and you should not assume, that all users will have the same experiences.
Accessing the dark web on an iPhone involves a series of steps to ensure privacy and security. Below are detailed steps to guide you through the process:
Basically, they’ll need to configure this setup on a specific server, which will route your Tor traffic. Since you’re first using Tor and then VPN, it’s clear that the entry node will be visible to your ISP who will be able to tell that you’re using Tor. Since you now know how to access the dark web with Tor and VPN, I think I should clarify two very popular methods of doing so. Namely, you can first connect to a VPN and then connect to Tor – or vice versa. If you wish, you can even use DuckDuckGo or other search engines that operate on the Dark Web.
1. Choose the Right Browsing App
To access the dark web, you’ll need a special browser. The most common one for iPhone is Tor Browser. Since there is no official Tor app for iOS, you’ll need to use a third-party app.
Some of them may store and sell your data, which could leave you vulnerable to censorship and other harm. Fortunately, the Internet is a safe place if you protect your privacy. On the software end, the use of Tor and other anonymized browsers is not strictly illegal. In fact, these supposed “dark web” browsers are not tethered exclusively to this portion of the internet. Many users now leverage Tor to browse both the public Internet and the deeper parts of the web privately.
The dark web is a part of the internet that can usually only be accessed using a specialized browser. While it’s infamous for drug-slinging and other criminal activities, people also turn to the dark web for valuable anonymous activities like bypassing censorship, journalism, and whistle-blowing. The Tor browser is the most popular way to access the dark web, but it’s not supported on iOS.
To access the Dark Web safely, you should use a VPN to mask your IP address and an anonymizing browser like Tor. For iPhone users, the key to accessing the Dark Web is a Tor-based browser called Onion Browser. It’s developed by Mike Tigas, with support from the Tor Project and the Guardian Project. Like Tor, it allows you to browse the web anonymously and access .onion sites. Well, at its core, Tor is a network of servers that helps improve privacy and security on the internet.
- Onion Browser – This is one of the most popular options for iOS users.
- Other alternatives might include Tor for iOS, or other privacy-focused browsers.
2. Download the Onion Browser
Follow these steps to download the app:
- Open the App Store on your iPhone.
- Search for Onion Browser.
- Download and install the app.
3. Configure the Application
Once installed, it’s essential to configure the app to enhance your privacy:
- Open the Onion Browser and go to the settings.
- Enable the option to use a VPN for an extra layer of security.
- Ensure you have the necessary permissions set for the app.
4. Connect to the Tor Network
After configuring the app, you must connect to the Tor network:
- Open the Onion Browser and wait for it to connect to the Tor network.
- This may take a few moments; once connected, you’ll be able to access .onion sites.
5. Browse with Caution
When accessing the dark web, it is crucial to remain anonymous and safe:
- Never share personal information.
- Avoid downloading files from unknown sites.
- Be cautious of links; many can lead to malicious websites.
FAQs about Accessing the Dark Web on iPhone
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web hosts sites that offer anonymity, which can attract both legitimate and illegal activity. Users may seek privacy for communication, activism, and whistleblowing, while others may engage in illegal trade, including drugs and weapons.
Is it legal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities found on the dark web is against the law. It’s important to understand the laws in your jurisdiction.
What should I do to stay safe while browsing?
- Use a reliable VPN.
- Never share personal identification details.
- Keep your device and apps updated.
- Be wary of scams and phishing attempts.
In conclusion, accessing the dark web on an iPhone is possible by using specialized apps like Onion Browser with proper settings for privacy and security. Always prioritize safety to navigate this hidden part of the internet responsibly.
