Become Anonymous On The Internet Using Tor
How to Access the Dark Web on iPhone
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. Accessing it can be complex, especially on mobile devices like the iPhone. Here’s a detailed guide on how to access the dark web on iPhone.
Understanding the Dark Web
- It’s quite convenient to browse it with your phone when you’re on the go, all this while being as protected as if using a computer.
- Wasabi Wallet is a Bitcoin wallet that not only hides all your data in the Tor network but also allows you to “join” your transactions with others to increase your anonymity.
- For example, I looked up google.com and was able to find a snapshot of Google’s home page from 2008.
The dark web is often misunderstood; it is home to both illicit activities and legitimate privacy-focused resources. Before diving in, consider the following:
- Privacy and Security: Your data can be at risk.
- Legal Risks: Some content is illegal to access.
- Potential for Malware: Be cautious of what you download.
You need a specialized browser, like Onion browser, to access the dark web on iPhone. You could also use NordVPN’s Onion Over VPN and visit the dark web on any browser, like Safari. The Tor project recommends the Onion Browser, which we’re using for this tutorial. We recommend sticking to the Onion Browser, as other Tor browser apps on the AppStore may be fake or contain viruses that will infect your device. Getting on the dark web using a mobile device is surprisingly easy.
You can use special search engines made specifically for the dark web including Torch, Candle, and NotEvil. Note, if you’ve clicked on one of these hyperlinks, they won’t open unless you are browsing using TOR. Now that you are ready to go, you need to sign up for an untraceable email address. A known email service provider like Gmail or Outlook are certainly out of the question. To do this, you need an email address to register for many .onion websites.
All this activity, this vision of a bustling marketplace, might make you think that navigating the dark web is easy. The place is as messy and chaotic as you would expect when everyone is anonymous, and a substantial minority are out to scam others. The dark web is a subset of the deep web that is intentionally hidden, requiring a specific browser—Tor—to access, as explained below. No one really knows the size of the dark web, but most estimates put it at around 5% of the total internet.
Atlas VPN is a highly secure service with servers located across several dozen locations. Aside from fast server speeds for faster browsing and streaming, it provides comprehensive security and privacy protection. This starts with military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, protection from DNS leaks, and a kill switch feature. Better still, you can secure all of your devices at once with just one account.
NordVPN is a veteran VPN provider that stores zero logs about its users’ online activities. Among its huge global server network is a Tor over VPN option, which automatically routes your traffic through the Tor network after it leaves the VPN tunnel. Whether you use that option or not, you get military-grade encryption, an app-specific kill switch, and strong leak protection. Speeds are among the fastest we’ve tested, and you can connect up to six devices at a time.
The dark web is a side of the internet that seems full of mysteries. If you are curious enough to go there, you now have all the tools in your hands to get on it safely. With the Tor network (here Onion Browser), our IP address is also changed but there can be vulnerabilities. In the past, this has happened (look at this article), so I use NordVPN to add an extra layer of security. To be safe, you should change your IP address before launching Onion Browser.
Once you’ve done that, you can begin to explore all the dark web has to offer on your iPhone. Just remember to cover your camera and your speaker when you download these apps. The dark web is estimated to make up just a tiny fraction of the internet. However, it’s difficult to accurately tell its actual size due to its hidden, decentralized, and constantly evolving nature. Its hidden nature makes it a bit challenging to access the dark web, but there are a few trusted ways.
Required Tools
To access the dark web on your iPhone, you’ll need specific applications and tools:
- Tor Browser: This is the primary tool to access the dark web.
- VPN Service: A reputable VPN can help secure your connection.
- Search Engine: Use dark web search engines like DuckDuckGo or Not Evil.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access the Dark Web
Follow these steps to safely access the dark web on your iPhone:
- Download and Install a VPN:
- Choose a reliable VPN from a trusted provider.
- Install the VPN app and create an account.
- Connect to the VPN before accessing the dark web.
- Install the Tor Browser:
- Visit the App Store and download a Tor-compatible browser.
- Popular options include Onion Browser and Tor Browser for iOS.
- Launch the Tor Browser:
- Open the Tor browser after installation.
- Follow any prompts to configure privacy settings.
- Connect to the Dark Web:
- Use the Tor browser to access .onion sites.
- Begin with known, trustworthy sites to explore.
Best Practices for Safe Browsing
When accessing the dark web, follow these best practices to stay safe:
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Keep your identity private.
- Use Strong Passwords: Enable two-factor authentication when possible.
- Avoid Downloads: Only download files from trusted sources.
- Be Skeptical: Everything on the dark web is not what it seems.
FAQs About Accessing the Dark Web on iPhone
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities is.
Do I need a VPN to access the dark web?
While a VPN is not strictly necessary, it provides an added layer of security and privacy.
Can I get hacked while using my iPhone on the dark web?
There is always a risk of hacking; use security precautions and trustworthy websites to minimize risks.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content?
Avoid engaging with it and exit the site immediately. Consider reporting it to authorities.
By following this guide, you can learn how to access the dark web on iPhone safely and responsibly. Always prioritize your security and stay informed about the risks involved.