Accessing the dark web securely

The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves as a space for privacy-conscious users, researchers, journalists, and whistleblowers. However, accessing it without the right precautions can put you at risk. If you’re considering exploring the dark web, you must take steps to protect your online privacy and security.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the dark web is, how to access it safely, and why using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) with Tor is essential for anonymity.

The dark web is definitely not for everyone. Accessing it without proper protection exposes you to surveillance, tracking, and potential security risks. If you need to access the dark web, NymVPN can add an essential layer of privacy and anonymity, encrypting your connection before you even access the Tor network.

What is the dark web?

The web has many layers – not all content is publicly available from a search engine query.

The three layers of the Internet:

• Surface web: Public websites indexed by search engines (e.g., news sites, social media, blogs). These resources are indexed as .com, .net, .edu, etc. domains.
• Deep web: Content that isn’t indexed but is accessible with proper credentials (e.g., emails, cloud storage, private databases)
• Dark web: Encrypted, hidden sites that require special tools like Tor to access. These include .onion domains accessible through the Tor browser.

What is the dark web?

The dark web refers to websites that are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. These sites exist on darknets which require specialized software to access. The most well-known is Tor (The Onion Router), which encrypts traffic and routes it through multiple nodes to obscure and protect user identities. The Tor Browser, which is the only official application for the Tor project, grants access to .onion sites on the dark web.

Is the dark web illegal?

No, accessing the dark web is not illegal in most countries. However, some activities on the dark web — such as illegal marketplaces or hacking forums — can be against laws in many jurisdictions. It’s important to keep in mind that many users access the dark web for legitimate and privacy-focused reasons, such as avoiding censorship, communicating securely, or conducting research anonymously. Given the dangers of accessing the dark web, it’s crucial to take security precautions.

How to access the dark web safely

Accessing the dark web comes with risks, including malware, scams, and surveillance. Follow these steps to stay secure and anonymous:

1. Use a VPN before connecting to Tor

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address before you access the Tor network. This extra layer of security ensures that your ISP and potential attackers cannot see that you’re using Tor. This method is called Onion-over-VPN (or VPN-over-Onion).

Some recommended VPNs for the dark web:

• NymVPN: Can’t log design, decentralized, metadata protections, and anonymous payments
• ProtonVPN – Tor over VPN feature (though not decentralized)
• NordVPN – Dedicated Onion over VPN servers (though not decentralized)

2. Download and install the Tor Browser

The Tor Browser is designed specifically for accessing .onion websites. It automatically anonymizes your traffic by routing it through multiple relays.

Steps to install Tor:

1. Visit the official Tor Project website
2. Download and install the Tor Browser for your OS
3. Open the browser and connect to the Tor network

3. Avoid downloading files and clicking on suspicious links

• Never download files from untrusted .onion sites, as they may contain malware
• Be cautious of phishing scams and fake darknet markets
• Use a privacy-focused search engine like DuckDuckGo within Tor

4. Disable JavaScript & use privacy-preserving tools

• Disable JavaScript in the Tor Browser settings to prevent website fingerprinting
• Use Tails OS (a privacy-focused live operating system) for added security
• Cover your webcam and microphone to prevent unauthorized access

5. Never use personal credentials or real information

The dark web is full of privacy risks. Avoid logging into accounts that are linked to your real identity. Instead, use disposable email services and end-to-end encrypted communication tools like ProtonMail or Signal.

What can you find on the dark web?

The dark web hosts a variety of content, both legal and illegal. Some of the most common types of websites used for legal and legitimate reasons:

Privacy-focused platforms

• SecureDrop: A tool for whistleblowers to submit information anonymously
• OnionShare: A secure file-sharing service
• Dark Web search engines: Sites like Ahmia index non-malicious .onion websites

Marketplaces & forums

• Legitimate markets sell privacy-focused tools, books, and digital goods
• Underground forums discuss cybersecurity, hacking, and cryptocurrency

Censored news & whistleblower platforms

• Journalists and activists use the dark web to bypass censorship in oppressive regimes
• Platforms like The Intercept’s SecureDrop allow anonymous document leaks

Dangers of accessing the dark web

While the dark web has legitimate uses, it also has significant risks:

• Scams & fraud: Fake marketplaces and phishing scams are common
• Malware & ransomware: Clicking on the wrong link or file can infect your device
• Surveillance & law enforcement tracking: Some dark web sites are monitored by authorities

How to stay anonymous on the dark web

If you want to remain anonymous while using the dark web, follow these best practices:

1. Always use a secure and advanced VPN before opening Tor
2. Never enter personal details or login credentials
3. Disable JavaScript and avoid clicking on unknown links
4. Use cryptocurrency for transactions instead of credit cards, and consider privacy coins like Monero or Zcash for heightened security
5. Exit the dark web properly by closing Tor Browser before disconnecting

Summary

The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that requires tools like Tor to access. While it offers privacy and anonymity, it also comes with risks. To protect your security, always use a VPN, disable tracking features, and follow safe browsing practices.

Dark web FAQs

Is it illegal to access the dark web?

No, simply accessing the dark web is not illegal in most countries. However, engaging in illegal activities on the dark web is against the law.

Can you be tracked while using Tor?

Yes, if you don’t use a VPN, your ISP can see that you’re connecting to the Tor network. A VPN helps protect you and your identity.

What’s the difference between the deep web and the dark web?

• The deep web includes private databases, academic records, and emails that aren’t indexed by search engines.
• The dark web is a small part of the deep web that requires Tor to access and offers greater anonymity.

Why should I use a VPN before Tor?

A VPN encrypts your traffic before it reaches the Tor network, preventing your ISP from seeing that you're using Tor. This adds an extra layer of security and anonymity.

What are the best privacy tools for the dark web?

• Tor Browser: Secure access to .onion sites
• VPN: Hides your IP address and encrypts traffic
• Tails OS: An anonymous operating system
• Encrypted email: e.g. ProtonMail
• End-to-end encrypted messaging: e.g. Signal

Browsing the dark web safely requires more than just Tor—your ISP can still see you’re using it. With NymVPN, you get true anonymity, preventing ISPs and surveillance actors from tracking your activities, keeping your online identity hidden.