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Understanding the Deep Web vs Dark Web
Many legitimate websites, including the New York Times, have a dark web presence, and other reputable organizations try to create websites that offer users a cloak of invisibility. Using the Deep Web is as simple as opening your favorite browser and checking your email. The contents of your inbox aren’t publicly viewable by just anyone, they need your email address and password.
Cyber attack services, like access to botnets that can conduct distributed denial-of-service attacks, are also available. The dark web refers to encrypted online content that is not indexed by conventional search engines. Darknet provides a user with anonymity but service was introduced that allowed someone to host a website on the darknet and remain anonymous. This attracted people who do illegal stuff to sell things without getting caught. One example is a website called the silk road which was on a darknet called TOR, used to sell drugs, and was taken down by the FBI.
This means that the total network of live dark web sites is only about 0.005% of the size of the surface web. Sites on the dark web don’t come with easy-to-remember URLs, and many disappear suddenly. The Tor browser differs from others such as Chrome or Firefox because it does not take the most direct route from your device to the web. Instead, Tor uses a random set of encrypted servers known as nodes to keep users and sites anonymous.
The terms deep web and dark web are often used interchangeably, but they represent very different sections of the internet. Understanding the distinctions between these two can help clarify misconceptions and enhance online safety.
What is the Deep Web?
- The majority of the Deep Web is similar to the Surface Web, just less public.
- Tor’s multi-layered encryption ensures your IP address is hidden and allows you to access dark web sites.
- Unless you’re using special software and intentionally accessing .onion sites, you’ll remain blissfully unaware of the dark corners of the deep web.
Illicit black markets have found a home on the dark web where you can purchase everything including novelty items, weapons, drugs, compromised credit card accounts, and even human trafficking victims. Some of these markets have abruptly closed and absconded with their customers’ money, and several have been seized by US and European law enforcement agencies. While anonymity is key to the dark web, it’s important to remember that it’s nearly impossible to be truly anonymous on the internet. Typically, those who want or need access to corporate content already know how to access it. This includes online classrooms and other teaching materials owned by schools and universities.
While no one can pinpoint the origins of the Dark Web, it’s now referenced in mainstream conversations about technology and digital security as the seedy source of many security issues. This colossal amount of information exists on the Deep Web (or “hidden web”), where almost all online activities take place. Because not all the information you can access online belongs in the public domain. Journalists use the dark web to help protect the anonymity of their sources, and others use the dark web simply because they believe strongly in their right to privacy.
The deep web includes all parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines such as Google, Bing, or Yahoo. This encompasses a vast range of information that is not easily accessible. Here are some characteristics of the deep web:
- Contains personal data, medical records, academic databases, and more.
- Comprises about 90% of the total internet.
- Typically requires permissions or logins to access the content.
The price tag for these items may be surprising, with usernames and passwords selling anywhere from $.10 to $1 and fingerprints selling for about $2 each. According to Zur, 90% of the web is actually the “deep web,” which is just below the surface of the world wide web. Companies, web developers, and websites tell Google not to search or categorize this information, so when you do a web search it does not come up. Much of it, however, can be accessed if you type in a direct web address. This is something you might know, but search engines will not tell anyone about.
In addition to public areas, cities have private zones that require a pass, ticket, or invitation for access. These include homes, business centers, private clubs, cinemas, and so on. Usually, no publicly available map will show you what’s going on inside these places. In this guide, learn about the benefits of common identity theft protection features and compare 12 identity theft protection companies. This includes corporate or government whistleblowers (such as WikiLeaks) that publish sensitive information on the Dark Web. Here’s a breakdown of the Deep Web vs. Dark Web — how they’re used, how to access them, and the security threats that you should be aware of when using them.
Examples of Deep Web Content
Some common examples of content found on the deep web include:
- Personal emails and private social media profiles.
- Subscription-based services like streaming platforms or research databases.
- Intranets and databases used by companies and government entities.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is a small part of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. This area is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves legitimate purposes.
Characteristics of the Dark Web
Here are some notable aspects of the dark web:
- Accessible only through specialized software like Tor.
- Hosts anonymous websites that often conceal the identities of users.
- Can be a haven for criminal activities and illicit markets.
Examples of Dark Web Content
Some common types of content found on the dark web include:
- Illegal drug sales and weapons trading.
- Stolen data and personal information for sale.
- Forums discussing hacking and illegal activities.
Key Differences: Deep Web vs Dark Web
To summarize the main differences between the deep web and dark web, consider the following:
| Aspect | Deep Web | Dark Web |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Standard browsers, often requires logins | Special software like Tor needed |
| Content Type | Legitimate data (emails, databases) | Often illegal or illicit activities |
| Size | Approximately 90% of the internet | A small fraction of the deep web |
FAQs Regarding Deep Web vs Dark Web
1. Is the deep web illegal?
No, the deep web itself is not illegal. It consists of many legitimate, non-indexed resources.
2. Can I access the dark web without special software?
No, you need specific software, such as Tor, to access the dark web.
3. Is there any safe content on the dark web?
While much of the content is illegal, there are forums and communities on the dark web dedicated to privacy and free speech that may discuss legitimate topics.
Understanding the differences between the deep web and dark web is crucial for navigating the internet safely and responsibly. By being aware of what exists beneath the surface, users can better protect themselves and their data.
