You don’t even need to use Tor Browser, but keep in mind other browsers can still pass identifying information through the network. Alternatively, there’s IPVanish who claim to be the world’s number one VPN for Tor and comes highly recommended, you can save 60% on the annual plan here. Obviously, finding these .onion websites is the first challenge, as they won’t show up in Google search results. You can’t just Google “Silk Road” and hope to land on the dark website. NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page.
A step-by-step guide to safely accessing the dark web while maintaining your anonymity and security. However, note that a VPN is not a definitive or comprehensive form of protection. It won’t guard you against all of the many threats that exist on the dark web, from phishing scams to malware and malicious sites. It offers some protection, but you still have to be wary and sensible when browsing the dark web. It’s legal to access the dark web in the U.S. and most other countries. This can include illicit marketplaces, drugs, cybercrime and hacking groups, and extremist, violent platforms.
Risks Of Accessing The Dark Web:
Whistleblowing, the act of exposing wrongdoing within an organization, often requires a secure and anonymous channel. The Dark Web can provide a platform for individuals to share information, documents, or evidence anonymously, ensuring protection against potential retaliation. Whistleblowing enables the exposure of corruption, fraud, or illegal activities that might otherwise remain concealed, contributing to increased transparency and accountability. The Dark Web offers users a level of anonymity that is not available on the Surface Web.
VPN-over-Tor (Limits And Niche Uses)
Despite its negative reputation, not all activity on the dark web is malicious; some users rely on it as a tool for freedom of expression or to circumvent restrictions. Users of the dark web should also realize that although their activity is technically anonymous, associating with people who are conducting illegal activities can have legal implications. The dark web is a common gathering place for hackers and other cybercriminals, which can make browsing the dark web a risky activity.
Is The Dark Web Actually Anonymous?
The connection is encrypted, and all the traffic bounces between relays worldwide, making the user anonymous. Among the many benefits of using a VPN vs a proxy or Tor is that it provides full encryption for all the data you send and receive online. So not only is your web activity hidden, but you can mask your IP address by connecting via a wide range of global VPN server locations.
Why Should I Use A VPN Before Tor?
A good antivirus software can detect, quarantine, and remove threats before they can damage your device or acquire any sensitive information. My favorite antivirus in 2025 is Norton, which scored a 100% protection rating during my tests (handily beating the built-in protections on my devices). Because Tor over VPN puts your privacy in the hands of the VPN provider, it’s important to choose one with a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t store user data. ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Tor VPNs because it’s fast, easy to use, and its no-logs policy has been independently audited and confirmed by third-party cybersecurity experts. Look for features like real-time alerting, coverage of multiple dark web forums and marketplaces, credential and data leak detection, and integration with your existing security stack.
Downloading The Tor Browser
Whited’s rule of thumb is to use the Tor Browser instead of Private Browsing Mode or Incognito Mode. “Contrary to what most people think, these modes do not actually protect your privacy,” she says. These are the final stops in the Tor relay chain before your traffic hits the open web. Anyone running a malicious exit node could potentially monitor, manipulate, or inject content into your session, especially if you’re visiting non-HTTPS sites. When selecting a VPN service, it’s important to choose a reputable and reliable provider. Look for VPNs that have a strict no-logs policy, meaning they do not store any information about your online activities.
How To Remain Safe When Using Darknet Browsers
The Tor Browser is a specific web browser, based on Firefox, that utilizes the Tor protocol to enable private browsing. While the Tor Browser is designed to protect your privacy, it’s not 100% safe on its own. Without a VPN, your ISP can see that you’re using Tor, and the first Tor server (entry node) can see your real IP address. Additionally, if Tor leaks, your IP address will be exposed to everyone. You can eliminate these privacy concerns by connecting to a VPN before launching the Tor Browser in a setup called Tor over VPN.
- The Surface Web, also known as the Clear Web, is the familiar part of the internet that can be accessed through search engines like Google or Bing.
- Tor provides anonymity through a process known as “onion routing,” where internet traffic is encrypted and passed through multiple network nodes.
- IOS is the only exception, leaving iPhone and iPad users without the option to go to this part of the internet.
- Some dark web commerce sites have dangerous chemicals and weapons for sale.
Hotspot Shield – Best For Light, Casual Dark Web Browsing
While the TOR network offers a significant degree of anonymity, it is not entirely foolproof. Individuals may encounter illegal activities or content, and engaging in such activities can have serious legal ramifications. Furthermore, there are malicious actors present in the Dark Web, so exercising caution is paramount. One of the significant risks of Dark Web usage is the potential exposure to malicious actors and criminal elements. The very anonymity that attracts legitimate users also attracts cybercriminals, scammers, and hackers who exploit vulnerable individuals. Engaging in illegal activities on the Dark Web can not only lead to criminal charges but also expose individuals to the risk of financial loss, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
Download And Connect A VPN
At the dark end of the web, you’ll find the more hazardous content and activity. Tor websites are located at this far end of the deep web, which are deemed the “dark web” and are only accessible by an anonymous browser. Venturing further into the deep web does bring a bit more danger to the light. For some users, portions of the deep web offer the opportunity to bypass local restrictions and access TV or movie services that may not be available in their local areas.
The installation process is straightforward and generally similar to installing any other software. On the Tor Project website, you will find different versions of the Tor Browser for various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android. Choose the version that corresponds to your device’s operating system to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. PCMag is obsessed with culture and tech, offering smart, spirited coverage of the products and innovations that shape our connected lives and the digital trends that keep us talking.
The dark web itself is not illegal, but many activities conducted there are. If used responsibly, it serves as a valuable tool for privacy, free speech, and secure communication. However, engaging in criminal activities on the dark web can lead to serious legal consequences. The technology behind this anonymous connection is known as “onion routing,” which utilizes a layered approach to obscure data and protect users’ locations on the network. Yes, you definitely need a VPN if you want to access the dark web on your phone. This is because the dark web is full of potentially dangerous content, and a VPN will help keep your identity and personal information safe.
