Whether you’re curious about what’s going on in there, you want to see if the stories are real or you’re actually looking for something in particular, knowing how to use the dark web is imperative to get there.
It’s not like opening your favorite browser and typing an address or two. Instead, it’s about using anonymity tools like VPNs, as well as browsers like Tor.
If you’ve never been on the dark web, get ready because it’s a completely different adventure, from the browsers and website addresses to actual website content and what you can find there.
What you’ll need for the dark web
VPN services are quite varied and while Tor is a relatively anonymous browser, doing something bad could get you in trouble because the authorities will still have access to it. That’s why it’s important to rely on a VPN too. Sure, the provider can still be questioned and offer logs, so research your options.
For example, if you’re in the USA, you should use a VPN from Russia. This way, authorities are less likely to get too much data from the provider.
Virtual machine software is also a good idea, rather than your own operating system. On the same note, you can also use a disposable operating system, such as Tails, which can be installed on a classic USB stick and reset itself whenever you restart the computer.
The idea is useful because you can contain malicious scripts much easier in such an environment.
Where to start on the dark web
Websites on the dark web cannot be indexed or found like on the clean web, through search engines. Websites have an unusual format and the .onion extension and search engines are not fully relevant.
The Hidden Wiki is the Wikipedia of the dark web. It is a web listing directory with numerous categories and includes links to social networks, financial products, drugs, hosting providers, music, literature, you name it.
Each website has a light description, so you’ll know precisely what to expect.
Unhappy with Hidden Wiki? It's not the only so-called search engine. You can also try out DuckDuckGo, Torch, WWW Virtual Library, Uncensored Hidden Wiki (the dangerous version of The Hidden Wiki), ParaZite, Daniel, or Comic Book Library, just to name a few.
Moving to commerce
Interested in shopping? Unsurprisingly, the dark web has its fair share of online stores at all. Sure, you can join various marketplaces and buy drugs or even firearms, but other shops provide a more legitimate experience.
You can buy smartphones, laptops or computers, for example. The problem is no one regulates the market, so many of these shops are fake. It’s hard to tell which ones are real, so you may need to do some research upfront.
Some of the most popular stores on the dark web include Apple Palace, Cstore, Kamagra, EuroGuns, PirateSec, Gold & Diamonds, Fake Passwords, Digital Gangster, or Onion Identity Services, just to name a few.
Transactions on the dark web are made with cryptocurrencies, usually Bitcoin. This means you’ll also need a digital wallet and a good service to purchase digital coins and get them tumbled.
Making friends on the dark web's social media
Social media is a thing regardless of the environment or location. In other words, the dark web has its own networks too. As you start making friends, you’ll need a way to communicate.
BlackBook is a good starting point, but Torbook, The CampFire, Lucky Eddie's Home, and MadIRC Chat Server are just as attractive.
Tips and tricks to stay safe on the dark web
Your safety is critical when it comes to the dark web and luckily, there are ways to keep anonymous and ensure your privacy is respected.
Rescale the browsing window of Tor. It may sound weird, but it will make tracking more difficult.
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Rescale the browsing window of Tor. It may sound weird, but it will make tracking more difficult.
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Play with the security settings of the VPN and browser and make sure everything is cleared when you’re done exploring.
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Never pay by any other method but digital money or you’ll leave some tracks.
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Finally, like for anything else, don’t stick your nose if you don’t know what it is or you’re not interested.
As a short conclusion, these steps and ideas make a detailed guide on how to use the dark web. It’s an exciting opportunity, regardless of what you need the dark web for. But at the same time, there are many dangers as well and they often depend on what you’re on the dark web for.
Maintaining a high level of privacy is a must and there should be no links leading back to you. Therefore, avoid using your cards when transactions are on the dark web.
Cryptocurrencies are the best options for dark web users and most people will happily accept or trade with Bitcoin only.
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