Marlene Baiton
Updated on: May 7, 2025
Fact-checked by Sam Boyd
The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that requires special tools to access. While it’s often associated with illegal activity, it also has legitimate uses, such as anonymous communication and whistleblowing.
Unlike the public web, it can’t be accessed through standard tools like Google, Firefox, or Chrome. It operates on a hidden network, requiring tools like Tor to navigate its unique structure.
People use the dark web for all kinds of reasons, from protecting their privacy to breaking the law. It’s not always clear-cut, and it’s not always safe. That’s why, if you’re planning on using the dark web for legal, privacy-focused reasons, it’s important to stay protected. Norton includes a bundled VPN and advanced malware protection to help keep you safe while browsing the dark web.
What Does “Dark Web” Mean?
The dark web simply refers to an area of the internet you can’t easily access — it isn’t indexed by search engines like Google or Bing and can’t be accessed using standard browsers like Chrome or Firefox.
It’s a hidden section of the internet requiring specialized browsers, such as Tor, to access. Picture the regular internet as a bustling city, with easily accessible websites like stores or restaurants. The dark web is like a hidden alley, accessible only if you know the secret entrance.
It’s often associated with illegal activities, such as selling drugs, weapons, or stolen data. But not everything there is illegal. Some use it to protect their privacy, such as journalists, activists, or people living under oppressive governments. To stay safe while browsing on the dark web, tools like Norton 360 and a reliable VPN are essential.
Why Security Matters When Using Tor
While Tor helps protect your anonymity by routing your internet traffic through multiple servers, it doesn’t inherently shield your device from malware or scams, which are common on the dark web. Malicious websites, compromised Tor nodes, or accidental downloads can expose your device to malware or hackers.
Note: while the dark web can be a dangerous place for illegal activities and scams, it’s also important to understand that it’s just another part of the internet. Like any other area of the internet, the danger involved depends on how people choose to use it.
Tools like Norton 360 are critical on the dark web because they actively scan for and block threats — ensuring your device remains secure even in the dark web’s riskier environment. This added protection is vital, whether you’re using the dark web for privacy or out of curiosity. Additionally, a VPN like
What Can You Find on the Dark Web?
The dark web is used for many different things, some of which are illegal, and some of which aren’t. Here’s a breakdown of the most common things you’ll find there:
- Illegal marketplaces. You’ll find websites on the dark web where illegal goods — such as drugs, weapons, and counterfeit products — are sold. These markets operate under a veil of anonymity, making it difficult for authorities to trace users or transactions. However, law enforcement agencies sometimes create so-called “honeypots”: fake marketplaces designed to catch criminals in the act. Buyers may think they’re dealing with a legitimate vendor, only to discover they’ve been transacting with an undercover FBI agent.
- Stolen personal data. Information like credit card numbers, social security details, and personal identification documents is often traded on the dark web. Cybercriminals and data brokers use these platforms to profit from stolen data.
- Hacking services. Some sites offer hacking services, where users can hire others to break into email accounts, social media profiles, or even corporate networks. People also pay for services like DDoS (distributed denial of service) attacks against websites on the surface web.
- Whistleblower platforms. Platforms like SecureDrop allow whistleblowers to anonymously “blow the whistle” on illegal government surveillance activities, money laundering schemes, tax evasion, and many others.
- Privacy-focused communities. Many forums and chat rooms in this part of the internet exist for people to discuss internet privacy, encryption, and anonymity. These spaces attract users interested in protecting their online identities and learning more about digital security.
- Political activism. In countries with heavy censorship or oppressive regimes, the dark web serves as a space for activists to share ideas and organize protests. Anonymity helps protect individuals from government surveillance and retaliation.
- Scams and fraud. Just like on the surface web, scams are common here, too. Fraudsters often trick users into paying for fake products, services, or information, taking advantage of the anonymous environment to avoid detection.
Is the Dark Web Illegal?
The dark web isn’t illegal in most places, but using the Tor browser can be. This special browser helps protect your privacy by masking your identity and hiding your online activity.
While it’s legal in many countries, some governments — including those in the UAE, Pakistan, China, North Korea, and Iran — have banned or restricted it because it makes surveillance and censorship more difficult to enforce. And in places with heavy internet censorship, simply using the browser may violate the law.
China, for example, blocks access to the Tor network entirely, treating it as a tool for bypassing government controls. To get around these restrictions, the Tor network offers an option called bridges.
Bridges are Tor relays that aren’t listed in the public directory, which makes them harder for governments and ISPs to detect and block. Most relays are openly accessible, but bridges stay hidden and are particularly useful in countries where access to the network is restricted or monitored. They also offer extra privacy for users who want to avoid revealing that they’re using Tor at all.
Some advanced bridges use obfuscation tools like “obfsproxy”, which disguise Tor traffic to make it look like regular internet traffic. This added layer of stealth can help users slip past packet sniffing tools used by censoring governments. However, setting up or running a bridge like this requires additional software and configuration, which can be a barrier for less technical users.
Editors’ Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
How to Access the Dark Web on Desktop
Before accessing the dark web on a desktop, secure your connection with an antivirus bundled with a VPN (like Norton), then follow the steps below.
Step 1. Download & Install the Tor Browser
The Tor browser, a free tool, lets you browse Tor anonymously. Here’s how to install it:
- Visit torproject.org and download the installer for your operating system. Don’t download the browser from elsewhere to avoid malicious or infected versions — this is the only legitimate, official source.
- On Windows, double-click the installer file and follow the onscreen instructions until the browser is installed. If you’re using macOS, once downloaded, double-click the downloaded .dmg file and drag and drop the app icon into your Mac’s Applications folder.
- Once installed, open Tor and click Connect. You can also toggle the switch for Always connect automatically (this is the setting I like using for convenience), but it’s not required.
- After that, you’re all set to start diving in!
Step 2. Find Dark Web Sites to Visit
Here are 3 sites to help you browse this hidden part of the internet. Keep in mind that this isn’t an exhaustive list of dark web sites.
The Hidden Wiki
The Hidden Wiki is a curated directory of .onion links that helps you find popular sites quickly. It organizes links by category, like forums, email services, blogs, and file-sharing tools, which makes browsing easier and more efficient.
Most links are accurate and still active, and each one includes a short description that’s usually spot-on. It’s a solid starting point for exploring, but it’s important to read descriptions carefully — some links lead to illegal or dangerous content. Use caution and stick to known, reputable links.
Ahmia
Ahmia is a search engine that helps you find active .onion sites using keywords. It filters out abusive or illegal content, so it’s safer than many other search tools. You can sort results by date, which helps when you’re looking for recently updated or new sites.
Ahmia consistently delivers accurate results and makes it easier to browse without accidentally stumbling onto disturbing or harmful content. It works best when paired with a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN for extra privacy.
DuckDuckGo
DuckDuckGo runs on the Tor network and lets you search any part of the internet without tracking or storing your data. It offers standard features like image, video, and news searches, but also includes tools like anonymous chat, AI search results, and secure browsing.
It even prompts you to switch to a site’s .onion version if one is available. You can sort search results by age, set your location manually, and adjust safe search settings. It’s one of the best choices if you want a familiar and private search experience on the internet.
Why Can’t You Use Google on the Dark Web?
Google doesn’t index sites with the special “.onion” addresses. These sites are built for privacy and anonymity, and Google’s web crawlers (also known as “spiders” or “bots”), which look for websites to index, can’t access or “crawl” these hidden sites.
Google relies on publicly available websites. “.Onion” sites are specifically designed to keep traffic and data private, which means they’re blocked from being found by regular search engines.
But Google isn’t the only search engine that doesn’t work here. Bing, Yandex, Yahoo, or even the surface web version of DuckDuckGo, can’t access .onion sites.
Why Do People Use the Dark Web?
People are drawn to the dark web for many reasons, including protecting their identity, bypassing censorship, and exploring underground communities. Here’s a breakdown of why people use the dark web:
Anonymity & Privacy
One reason is to maintain anonymity and protect online privacy. On the surface web, it’s easy for third parties to track activities through IP addresses or browsing histories, but here, encryption keeps things secure. This makes it a preferred choice for journalists, activists, and other such individuals who need to protect their identity and communications.
It also allows secure communication and confidential information sharing without surveillance risks in sensitive situations. It creates a space where people can talk freely about important topics without fear of being targeted.
Bypassing Censorship + Accessing Restricted or Censored Content
The dark web is often used to bypass censorship and access restricted content in countries with heavy internet control, like China and Russia. Governments in these places may block social media, news outlets, or certain websites to suppress free speech.
For individuals in oppressive regimes, the dark web offers a vital tool to express opinions and access uncensored news, ensuring that important information can still be shared despite government efforts to control it.
It’s also used by some to access content banned or blocked in specific countries, such as news articles, books, or social platforms, and provides a workaround for internet surveillance. People also use it for illegal purposes, including buying and selling drugs and weapons, along with other highly unsavory activities.
Testing Digital Security
Cybersecurity experts often use the dark web to stay ahead of cyber threats. By monitoring marketplaces and forums, they can gather critical information about vulnerabilities, data leaks, and the tools hackers use. This helps them anticipate potential cyberattacks and better protect organizations and individuals.
For those working in security, this part of the internet offers insights into criminal activity and emerging trends, such as new types of malware or methods of stealing personal data. Staying aware of what’s happening on the dark web is key to improving digital safety.
Exploring Subcultures and Communities
The dark web hosts various subcultures and niche communities. People use it to connect with others who share their interests, whether those interests are political, artistic, or personal. These spaces are often harder to find on the regular internet, making it an attractive place for those seeking unique connections.
While most of these communities are harmless, some might engage in controversial or extreme discussions. Users should always be cautious about where they explore, as some spaces can hold harmful or troubling content.
Dark Web vs. Deep Web vs. Surface Web
The dark web, deep web, and surface web all serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown of the differences.
Deep Web
Most of the internet lives in the deep web. These are pages and services that aren’t indexed by search engines, but they’re not hidden or secret — just restricted. This includes your email inbox, online banking dashboard, private cloud storage, and even internal networks like an intranet.
While these parts of the internet are not openly visible to the public, they are completely legal and used by millions daily for various personal and professional tasks. There’s no reason to have them show up in search engine results pages (SERPs).
Surface Web
The surface web is the part of the internet you use without thinking about it. These are public websites that show up in Google search results and don’t require logins to view. Think news websites, social media platforms, shopping sites, YouTube, Netflix, blogs, Wikipedia, recipe sites, and many others. Including this website!
It’s the most accessible part of the internet, but it actually makes up less than 10% of all content online, and most people in the world are able to access the surface web freely without specialized software tools.
How Safe Is the Dark Web?
The dark web isn’t automatically a dangerous place, but it’s not risk-free. Like any tool, it depends on how you use it — and how careful you are when using it.
Because it’s anonymous by design, it attracts a lot of shady activity. You’ll find scams, fake sites, and illegal content in some corners, and stumbling into the wrong place can put your device or identity at risk. There’s also the danger of accidentally downloading malware or clicking on phishing links that try to steal your personal info.
That said, many people use it safely every day. If you use the right tools, like Norton 360 to protect against malware and phishing, stick to trusted sources, and avoid suspicious sites, your risk is much lower. Think of it like walking through an unfamiliar part of town — it helps to stay alert, research, and know which places to avoid.
Who Monitors the Dark Web?
You’re not completely invisible while visiting the dark web — far from it! Tools like Tor can hide your IP address, but that won’t stop governments from tracking illegal activity. Global agencies use powerful tools to monitor, infiltrate, and bait users.
Investigators scan forums, stake out marketplaces, and sometimes run sting operations using fake sites called “honeypots.” Undercover agents pose as buyers and sellers, quietly collecting data and building cases.
This surveillance isn’t random — casual browsing won’t trigger alarms. But if you’re using flagged keywords, talking to criminals, or visiting watched sites, you could end up on a watchlist. And it’s not just local. Dozens of countries and agencies work together to track its activity, including:
- The US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. These countries, known as the Five Eyes, share intelligence and run joint operations on the entire internet. Their top surveillance and law enforcement agencies monitor darknet activity, track cybercriminals, and coordinate takedowns across borders.
- India. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Intelligence Bureau (IB), and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) tackle activity and digital crime here.
- South Korea. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) and Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) monitor cyber threats, including darknet markets.
- Japan. The National Police Agency (NPA) and Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) are involved in cybercrime surveillance and prevention.
- Germany. The Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) and Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) monitor cybercrime and coordinate with international partners.
- The rest of Europe. Organizations like the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) and the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) coordinate large-scale takedowns.
Surveillance doesn’t stop here, either. NSA leaks revealed that the CIA uses a system called XKeyscore, which flags users based on Tor activity, search terms, and browsing behavior — even on the surface web.
Agencies also trace crypto transactions, scrape data from seized servers, and sometimes deploy malware to reveal users. These tactics have led to major arrests and shutdowns. In short, you can get some privacy, but you can’t get total anonymity. If you’re doing something illegal, there’s a real chance someone’s watching.
Has Anyone Ever Been Arrested for Using the Dark Web?
Yes, people have been arrested for certain activities on the dark web. Law enforcement agencies worldwide have used sophisticated surveillance methods to catch criminals involved in illegal trade, hacking, and other illicit activities. Many high-profile arrests have been made thanks to undercover operations, honeypots, and the tracking of cryptocurrency transactions.
In one of the most famous examples, the FBI took down Silk Road, one of the largest illegal marketplaces to ever exist. Its founder, Ross Ulbricht, was imprisoned for 10 years before being pardoned by the US government.
Other similar sites have also been shut down, with authorities targeting buyers, sellers, and users involved in cybercrime. Overall, the message is clear: while there’s anonymity to be had here, it doesn’t guarantee safety from law enforcement. Whether you’re using it for legal or illegal reasons, there’s always a chance that your activity is being monitored.
How to Stay Safe on the Dark Web
Visiting the dark web can be risky, so taking precautions is essential. These tips will help you reduce risks and navigate securely.
- Use a VPN. A VPN hides your real IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for anyone to track your online activity. By masking your connection, you help protect your privacy and security. Always choose a reputable VPN service, such as ExpressVPN.
- Keep your software up to date. Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit while on the dark web. Regularly updating your operating system, apps, and antivirus programs protects you against new threats. Make it a habit to enable automatic updates so you don’t miss any important security patches.
- Use antivirus software. A reliable antivirus program, like Norton, can detect and remove threats you download from the dark web before they cause harm. Always keep your antivirus software updated to ensure maximum protection.
- Don’t share personal information. Your anonymity is key here, so never share personal information like your real name, address, or financial details. Even seemingly harmless conversations could put your identity at risk. Be cautious about what you reveal on the dark web, even in anonymous forums or chat rooms.
- Be wary of suspicious links. While visiting, you’ll find a ton of sites designed to trick you into clicking malicious links. Always double-check any link before clicking, especially if it looks odd or untrustworthy. If you’re unsure, it’s better to avoid it altogether rather than risk exposing yourself to harm.
- Be careful with downloads. Downloading files from anywhere can be risky, not just on the dark web, as they might contain hidden malware. If you absolutely must download something from the dark web, ensure it’s from a trusted source and scan it with your antivirus software as soon as possible. Consider using a virtual machine to isolate any potential risks to your main device.
- Consider using a separate device. To further minimize risk, some users opt to use a separate device or a virtual machine. This creates an additional layer of separation between your main device and any potential threats. By isolating your activities, you reduce the chances of infecting or compromising your primary system.
- Know the law. Always make sure you’re aware of your country’s laws, as engaging in illegal behavior can have serious consequences. If you stumble upon something illegal, leave the site immediately and avoid interacting with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to use the dark web?
Using the dark web itself is not illegal in most places, but activities like buying illicit goods or committing cybercrimes are. In some countries with strict internet laws, even using privacy tools like Tor may be illegal.
Check your local laws first, as some governments regulate privacy tools due to concerns about online anonymity. If you are unsure, consult a trusted legal professional.
What is the dark web actually used for?
The dark web is used for a variety of purposes, both legal and illegal. Some use it to protect their privacy, including journalists and political activists in oppressive regimes. They rely on it for anonymous, secure communication to avoid surveillance or censorship. It also helps users bypass government restrictions to access censored information and services.
On the other hand, it hosts illegal activities like black markets for drugs, weapons, and stolen data. While not all use is unlawful, its anonymity makes it a hub for actions that are harder to trace on the regular internet.
How do I know if I am on the dark web?
If you’re browsing a site with a “.onion” domain, you are on a hidden network. These addresses are designed for the Tor browser, the most common tool for accessing it. Regular browsers like Chrome or Firefox cannot reach these sites, so you’ll need a specialized browser — and it’s impossible to access them by accident.
Be cautious when exploring. While many sites offer valuable services, others may host illegal activities or harmful content. Use trusted resources to find safe sites and stay aware of the risks involved.
Can police track you on the dark web?
Yes, law enforcement agencies can track users anywhere on the internet. Tools like Tor anonymize users by masking their IP addresses, but this doesn’t make them invisible. Authorities worldwide work together and use advanced surveillance techniques to monitor activity, infiltrate forums and marketplaces, and even run fake sites — called honeypots — to gather information and identify criminals.
Casual browsing is less likely to attract attention. While privacy tools help protect anonymity, law enforcement continues to evolve its methods to combat illegal activity.
