Published on: February 19, 2025 Updated 2 times since publishing
Short on time? Here’s how to safely access the dark web on a phone:
- Get a VPN that supports dark web browsing and connect to a server. I recommend ExpressVPN, as it works with the Tor Browser on Android and Onion Browser on iOS, offers top-tier security and privacy features, and helps maintain fast speeds while accessing .onion sites.
- Download a dark web browser. Download and install the Tor Browser on Android from the Google Play Store, or the Onion Browser on iPhone from the Apple App Store.
- Connect to the network. Once installed, open the app on your phone and connect to the Tor network (or Onion on iOS). Be patient here — this could take anywhere from 10 to 30 seconds or more.
- Start browsing the dark web. This is actually the trickiest part. Knowing where to find dark web sites isn’t easy, so I recommend searching for a good database of known .onion sites.
Accessing the dark web on a mobile device requires the Tor Browser, which lets you visit .onion sites only accessible through its network. But there are a few things you need to know — especially on iOS, where the Tor Browser isn’t available.
I’ve put together detailed guides on how to access the dark web safely on both Android and iOS. I also share essential tips for staying secure there — personally, I always use a VPN for added privacy since Tor isn’t completely secure on its own. ExpressVPN is my top choice.
ACCESS THE DARK WEB WITH EXPRESSVPN
Editor’s note: At SafetyDetectives, we don’t support or encourage illegal activities on the dark web. I recommend exercising extreme caution and carefully researching any dark web sites you intend to explore. For maximum security and privacy while browsing the dark web, check out the top 10 VPNs for 2026.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
How to Access the Dark Web on a Phone (Step-By-Step Guide)
Step 1. Download a Dark Web Browser
To access the dark web, you’ll need to use a dedicated browser — Tor on Android or the Onion Browser on iPhone. Here’s how to install each on your device:
How to Install the Tor Browser on Android
The Tor Browser is available in the Google Play Store, so getting it up and running to access the dark web is pretty simple.
- Search for “Tor Browser” in the Google Play Store, then tap the Install button to download and install the app.
- Open the Tor Browser app, tap Connect, and wait for it to establish the connection. Note that the Tor Browser takes time to connect (30 seconds or more) because it routes your traffic through multiple encrypted nodes across the network, which can slow down the connection process.
How to Install the Onion Browser on iPhone
Tor isn’t available for iOS due to Apple’s restrictions, but you can still access the dark web on your iPhone using the Onion Browser, which is from the Tor Project. This app connects to the Tor network, allowing you to visit .onion sites.
However, since iOS browsers are required to use WebKit (Apple’s built-in web rendering engine), the Onion Browser doesn’t have the same level of privacy as the Tor Browser on desktop or Android. To ensure your traffic is properly routed through the Tor network, you’ll also need to install Orbot, which helps secure and anonymize your connection.
- Launch the Apple App Store on your iPhone and search for “Onion Browser,” then install it.
- When you open the app, you’ll be prompted to install Orbot, which is more privacy-friendly than relying on built-in Tor.
- Once Orbot is installed, open the app and tap Start to initiate the connection, then tap Allow when it asks you to add the VPN configurations.
- Orbot will begin loading the connection, but it won’t reach 100% until you grant it permission in the Onion Browser app. Go back to the Onion Browser and grant the required permissions to access Orbot.
Step 2. Visit a Good Dark Web Search Engine
Now that you’re connected to Tor, you’ll need a dark web search engine to help you find .onion sites. Unlike regular websites, .onion sites have complex, hard-to-remember URLs that you can’t find using regular search engines like Google. Instead, you’ll use specialized search engines to find them.
These search engines can help you discover .onion sites related to your interests. However, note that dark web search engines don’t index as many sites as regular search engines, so results can sometimes be limited or outdated.
To find what you’re looking for, you may need to try multiple search engines or visit directories of trusted .onion links. If you need an idea of where to start, check out our list of the best dark web sites in 2026.
How to Stay Safe on the Dark Web
In general, using the dark web comes with significant risks, including malware, phishing scams, identity theft, and more. It’s crucial to take precautions to protect yourself and your data. Here’s how to stay safe while accessing the dark web.
Connect to a VPN Before Opening Tor
A VPN adds that extra layer of privacy you need when browsing the dark web on Tor. Tor hides your IP address by routing your traffic through multiple encrypted layers, but that’s only in the Tor network. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or anyone monitoring your connection, like a network administrator, can still see you’re accessing the dark web. The VPN’s encryption masks your Tor use.
A VPN also helps protect you from risks in the Tor network itself. The VPN encrypts your traffic before it enters the Tor network and all the way to its destination, so your traffic remains protected.
It also prevents your IP address from being collected by cybercriminals on the dark web (this can happen if your traffic goes through a Tor server run by bad actors). The VPN changes your IP address, and, if you activate it before you even access Tor, you’ll be entering the network with the VPN’s IP address (this method is called Tor over VPN).
There are many excellent VPNs for the dark web, but my favorite is ExpressVPN because it’s the fastest on the dark web. I also like NordVPN and ProtonVPN, as they offer dedicated Tor servers that allow you to access .onion sites directly from regular browsers like Chrome.
Get a Good Antivirus
The dark web is full of malware, phishing scams, and other malicious threats that can compromise your device and personal data. Cybercriminals often disguise harmful files as legitimate downloads, making it easy to get tricked.
Good antivirus software (like Norton) helps detect and block these threats, providing an extra layer of security when accessing the dark web.
Limit Tracking on the Tor Browser
You can remove any permissions you’ve granted from the Tor Browser to prevent it from accessing personal information. Here’s how:
- Long-press the Tor Browser icon on your home screen or in the app drawer and tap App info.
- Tap Permissions to see a list of any that have been granted.
- If any permissions are allowed, tap on them and select Don’t Allow. Do this for all permissions, as you don’t want the Tor Browser to have access to any of them.
Read more ways to stay safe on the dark web
Use the Right Security Settings for Your Browser
As a general rule, it’s best to use the default settings in Tor or the Onion Browser. Changing any of the default settings can make websites misbehave or not load correctly.
For better security and privacy, you can tweak some settings in the browser, though. Here’s what I recommend (and why):
How to Change the Tor Browser’s Security Settings on Android
- Open Tor and tap the 3 vertical dots at the top right. Tap Settings. Check the Privacy and security area.
- I recommend using the “Safer” security level in Tor. This setting disables JavaScript on non-HTTPS websites, which reduces your exposure to malicious scripts. It also requires you to manually play audio and video files, which helps avoid hidden risks. “Safest” provides the highest level of security, but it only allows basic web functions, which can affect images, media, and interactive elements.
- HTTPS-Only Mode is enabled by default, and I recommend leaving it on. HTTPS encrypts websites via TLS and significantly enhances your security while browsing the dark web.
How to Change the Onion Browser’s Security Settings on iPhone
- Tap the shield icon. The default security setting is Silver. To change it, tap Customize.
- Tap Default Security, then choose Gold. It disables JavaScript on non-HTTPS sites, and all images, audio, and video are click-to-play. If a site doesn’t work, you can temporarily enable JavaScript — but make sure to never enable it on non-HTTPS websites.
Don’t Share Any Personal Information
Keep your personal details secure by using aliases and anonymous email accounts when creating dark web accounts. Never enter your real name, phone number, or financial info. Using secure, anonymous tools helps protect your identity from potential threats on the dark web.
Avoid Downloading Files From Untrusted Sources
Files on the dark web can contain malware, ransomware, or other harmful software. If you must download a file, verify its source and consider using a sandbox or virtual machine to open it safely, away from your primary operating system.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
Best Dark Web Search Engines for Android & iOS
When browsing the dark web on mobile, finding what you’re looking for can be tricky. Unlike regular websites, .onion sites don’t have easy-to-remember domain names like “example.com.” Instead, their addresses are long, complex strings of random letters, numbers, and symbols, making them hard to find or remember.
That’s where a good search engine comes in. These search engines index .onion sites, helping you find the content or services you’re looking for without having to know the exact address. Given the unique nature of the dark web, you need a reliable search engine that prioritizes privacy and security, like:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dark web illegal?
The dark web itself isn’t illegal — it’s the sites you visit and what you do that could get you into trouble. The dark web is just an umbrella term for websites that require special software like the Tor Browser to access.
That said, illegal actions remain illegal, whether on the dark web or not. Some regions ban the Tor network entirely, such as China, Russia, and Iran, so check your country’s laws before using it. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a lawyer.
Which browser do I need to access the dark web on my phone?
Depending on the device you’re using, there are 2 browsers you need to access the dark web on your phone. On Android, you need the Tor Browser, and on iPhone, you need the Onion Browser.
While there are other options, these are the only browsers officially recommended by the Tor Project. Using a different browser than these could put your privacy at serious risk and could expose you to attacks from cybercriminals.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
Yes. No matter what you do online, there’s always at least some risk of being tracked — especially on the dark web. While no method guarantees complete anonymity, you can minimize the chances of being tracked with the right precautions.
Using the Tor Browser is one of the best ways to protect your privacy, especially when combined with a reliable VPN. This setup hides your IP address and encrypts your traffic. Disabling JavaScript and avoiding personal logins or revealing identifying details can further reduce the risk of being tracked. However, remember that nothing is foolproof, so always exercise caution when exploring the dark web.
Can I access the dark web without Tor on my phone?
While there are other dark web browsers, they’re generally unreliable, unsafe, and complicated. The safest way to access the dark web on your phone is by using the official Tor Browser for Android or the Onion Browser for iPhone.
Tor for Android is developed by the Tor Project itself, while the Onion Browser is the recommended option for iOS users. These browsers offer the best security and privacy for browsing the dark web on mobile devices.