Used to link to public users, groups and channels, see here for more info on how to handle them ». The resulting URL should only be opened using the in-app Telegram Browser (i.e. no option should be given to open such links using third party browsers). The #fragment part is always ignored when parsing Telegram deep links. Defunct services and those accessed by deprecated V2 addresses are marked. I’ve heard all the stories about how the FBI can still track me when I’m on TOR and if that’s the case then how do these sites not get taken down? It’s something built into the password management services offered by Apple and Google as well, so you don’t need to trawl through data leaks manually yourself.
Installing The Tor Browser
When you access this site, do so with extra protection, even if you are technically anonymous when you use the Tor browser. People like spies or whistleblowers often contact the CIA via the dark web to keep themselves hidden. ProPublica aims to bring controversial, repressed stories into the open for all to see.
- Note that engaging with the content in any way is not only distressing but could also put you at legal risk.
- Facebook’s onion version lets people access Facebook in countries where access to the social network is otherwise restricted.
- It has a proprietary onion site in the Tor network to give you safe access even if your country restricts VPN usage.
- In addition to the brief introduction of “fake” marketplaces on the dark web, dark web users visiting political sites on the Tor network should realize that government-funded cyber teams are on the lookout for such users.
Stay private with a tool like Surfshark’s Alternative ID to mask your contact details and use generated data on sites you don’t trust. Visiting onion sites on older Tor versions can needlessly expose you to added risks. Given the above threats, it’s a good idea to use Tor over a VPN to access the dark web. Since most Tor websites are non-indexed and unregulated, the probability of scams is much greater on the dark web.
Other Hidden Sites

Its goal is to offer anonymous access to the content without being censored, no matter where you live. The BBC news website has a special .onion site, which you need to access via the dark web. In some countries, such as China and North Korea, the government uses heavy online censorship and blocks many dark web websites. Facebook’s dark web version allows users to access the site where it is banned or restricted.
Unlike many dark web platforms, it maintains strict content guidelines while protecting user privacy. TorBook aims to be a privacy-focused alternative to mainstream social networks. I found it especially useful for testing new services without risking my main email address, though messages expire after 24 hours.
However, DuckDuckGo also has a hidden side that allows you to search the Deep Web. DuckDuckGo focuses heavily on privacy and not tracking users, all while allowing you to search the Surface Web. It filters out abusive and dangerous sites and has been instrumental in raising awareness about sites that attempt to trick users. This makes it “invisible” to Google, but we can get this information from Deep Web search engines.
Privacy Advantages Of The Hidden Wiki

This makes AHMIA a relatively safe way to access content on the dark net. Only onion sites that opt in are crawled by AHMIA, and AHMIA maintains a blacklist of abusive and dangerous sites. The following list of Tor sites showcases some of the best and most useful legitimate content available on the dark web. Learn more about how to access the Tor network with Proton VPN
Pro Tip: Use A VPN To Stay Safe When Using The Dark Web Search Engines
Riseup’s secure email and chat help individuals communicate without fear of surveillance or data interception. Riseup provides email and chat services that keep no record of your online activity. Accessing ProPublica via the Tor Browser gives users an added layer of privacy and lets them bypass restrictive government censorship. However, Ahmia doesn’t have a large developer supporting it, so it’s been the target of scams or cyberattacks in the past. You’ll get unbiased, organic search results without getting any of your browsing behavior logged. You can access DuckDuckGo on the surface web, but a Tor version is also available.
Top 10 Best Dark Web Search Engines In 2025 Safe & Anonymous Browsing Tools For Tor Users
A lot of illegal activity occurs on the dark web, and onion websites are popular hangouts for cybercriminals and scammers. You can access onion sites only through the Tor browser or special network configurations. The best dark web websites provide access to educational materials, host secure services, or bypass censorship. These collaborations aim to improve the detection and removal of CP content, enhance reporting mechanisms, and block access to websites hosting explicit material involving minors.
What Is Spyware? Definition, Types And Protection 2026

It employs escrow services and PGP encryption for communications, significantly reducing the risk of scams. This ongoing maintenance ensures users can safely and confidently navigate the dark web with the help of the Hidden Wiki. The dark web is highly dynamic; sites frequently change addresses, disappear, or become scams. The platform also supports freedom of expression by granting access to censored or restricted information, making it popular among activists, journalists, and individuals living under oppressive regimes.
Top Dark Web Sites In 2023 – Good And Worst Darknet Sites
Tor ensures anonymity and security while browsing these hidden services, which is why it is essential for accessing the Hidden Wiki and other dark web resources. Always verify .onion links through trusted directories like the Hidden Wiki or reputable forums. It acts as a centralized hub to access sites that are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google. However, users should still exercise caution as no directory is entirely immune to malicious links.

What Kind Of Information Can I Find On Dark Web Search Engines?
Although the social application is known for collecting data on its platform, it does not like sharing the information with others. Many social media platforms keep their presence on the dark web, and it is no surprise that Facebook has a .onion portal. It allows you to search for images, maps, files, videos, social media posts, and more. SearX is a metasearch engine that you can use on the clear web and dark web. However, that part of the internet is unfiltered, so you might encounter unpleasant conversations.
Cyble Titan Endpoint Security

Additionally, hidden wiki websites function as directories of categorized .onion links, providing common entry points for users delving into the hidden internet. At its core, the Hidden Wiki functions as a directory of .onion links — these are websites hosted on the Tor network, only accessible through the Tor browser. Hidden Wiki was originally the name of a .onion hidden service on the Tor network, hosting a directory for links to websites on the Tor dark web. Ahmia’s .onion link is a search engine that indexes hidden services on the Tor network, allowing users to find .onion sites safely and efficiently. A dark web search engine is a tool that helps users find content hosted on the dark web, specifically .onion websites, which are only accessible via the Tor network. This website used to host over 7,000 onion sites, giving users access to many dark web links.
Cybersecurity teams and law enforcement agencies use it for investigations. It’s ideal for fast searching and doesn’t show cluttered results. DuckDuckGo offers a .onion version with privacy-first results from both surface and dark web. Known for its massive index and premium version, Haystak is favored by cybersecurity professionals and threat analysts for its depth. It’s popular among ethical researchers, journalists, and academic institutions. Below is a table summarizing each search engine with its focus and availability.
If the specified bot does not have a configured Main Mini App (i.e. the user.bot_has_main_app flag will not be set), fall back to the behavior of username links ». This link is used to invite users to gift Premium subscription to other users, see here » for the different link type containing the actual giftcodes that can be used to import a gifted Telegram Premium subscription. Used by users to boost channels », granting them the ability to post stories and further perks. Used to link to a Telegram Story », generated using the procedure specified here ». See here » for more info on how to create, edit, resolve and get view information about business chat links. Business chat deep links » allow business owners to share pre-made links to their Telegram Business account, optionally filling out the message input field with a pre-prepared message (with support for styled text entities »).
The dark web exists inside layered proxy networks, known as darknets. Due to this paywall skirting, it’s recommended to access Sci-Hub via the dark web (or use a VPN!). If you’re into privacy, transparency, or just love numbers, Tor Metrics gives you a deep dive into the world’s favorite anonymity network. From user trends to relay performance, it breaks down how Tor is being used, who’s connecting, and how well it’s holding up against censorship. Tor Metrics is the go-to hub for stats and insights on the Tor network. The dark web version is Hidden Answers, where users can discuss a wide range of topics anonymously.

Needless to say, we don’t condone any content forbidden by law. Naturally, this makes the dark web a breeding ground for illegal activity. With the above dangers, it’s imperative to tread carefully as you step into the dark web. While the dark web boosts freedom of information and communication, it’s also filled with dangers. This adds another layer of protection when you’re visiting the dark web on top of the privacy and security our encryption and IP masking provide.