What Is the Hidden Wiki and How to Find It

 By Charles Joseph | Cybersecurity Advocate

 Last update: November 25, 2023

The Hidden Wiki is a directory of websites on the Tor network, also known as the “dark web” or “deep web.”

It serves as an index for various types of hidden services, including forums, marketplaces, search engines, and other sites that are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google.

The Hidden Wiki is accessible only through the Tor Browser, which allows users to browse the internet anonymously by routing their traffic through multiple encrypted layers.

History of the Hidden Wiki

The original Hidden Wiki was created in 2007 as a collaborative effort by Tor users to provide a reliable and up-to-date directory of hidden services.

Over time, the Hidden Wiki became a popular entry point for newcomers to the Tor network and gained notoriety for its links to illicit activities and underground marketplaces.

Due to its nature as a user-editable directory and the ever-changing landscape of the dark web, the Hidden Wiki has gone through several iterations and has been mirrored or forked multiple times.

Who Uses the Hidden Wiki?

The Hidden Wiki is used by a diverse range of individuals, including:

1. Privacy-conscious users: People who value their privacy and want to access information or services without being tracked or monitored may use the Hidden Wiki to find resources on the Tor network.
2. Researchers and journalists: Professionals researching topics related to the dark web or conducting investigations may use the Hidden Wiki to find relevant hidden services or communities.
3. Cybercriminals: Individuals engaged in illegal activities, such as drug trafficking, hacking, or other illicit activities, may use the Hidden Wiki to find marketplaces or forums where they can conduct their operations.

How to Find the Hidden Wiki on Tor

The Hidden Wiki is found on the Tor network and can be accessed using the Tor Browser.

The exact URL for the Hidden Wiki may change over time due to its decentralized nature and the potential for takedowns or hacks.

Users can typically find the most current version of the Hidden Wiki by searching on Tor-based forums or by asking for recommendations from other Tor users.

It’s important to note that browsing the Hidden Wiki or the dark web can involve exposure to illegal or harmful content.

Users should exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with accessing and navigating these hidden services.

Here are the steps:

1. Install the Tor Browser: This can be downloaded from the official Tor Project website. This is a specially configured version of the Firefox browser designed to connect to the Tor network, which is necessary to access onion sites (the domains of the dark web).
2. Launch Tor Browser and Connect to the Network: After installing the browser, launch it and connect to the Tor network. Make sure to adjust your security settings to maximize safety.
3. Access the Hidden Wiki URL: The URL for The Hidden Wiki changes often due to the nature of the site. You’ll need to find the current URL. Popular forums like Reddit will provide you with current locations of the most recent “hidden wiki,” which is constantly changing. There is no one place to go, unfortunately. Do remember, however, that not all content listed on the Hidden Wiki is legal or safe. You are responsible for ensuring any actions you take are legal and safe.
4. Stay Safe: When using the Tor network and accessing sites like the Hidden Wiki, it’s important to keep your identity protected and not engage in illegal activities.

Remember that while Tor encrypts your data and hides your IP address, it’s not foolproof, and risky behavior can still lead to serious consequences. Be wary of any information or sites that promote illegal activity, and always use your judgment to stay on the right side of the law. It’s also recommended to use a VPN in combination with Tor for an extra layer of security.

Browsing the Hidden Wiki on the Deep Web (Video)