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Developed in the mid-1990s to keep U.S. intelligence communications from prying eyes, the Tor Project is the preferred method to access Dark Web content. Still, this is not the same as the Dark Web, a term you’ve likely seen around. The Dark Web is yet another fraction of the internet that’s not equivalent to the Deep Web. Perhaps, though deep web and dark web are still young terms; those who currently confuse the two don’t have any strong biases either way, so these terms are far from skunked. It’s possible that, as people become more aware of the different entities they describe, confusion will die down.
Understanding the Deep Web vs Dark Web
Taking part in these activities is against the law, and governments and law enforcement agencies worldwide actively monitor and investigate criminal actions on the dark web. People should exercise caution while accessing the dark web and be aware of the risks involved. The dark web refers to content on the internet that is intentionally hidden and requires special software, like Tor Browser, to access. The dark web is a subset of the deep web, which is all content on the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. Traditional search engines return results because they contain indexes of links to websites. The deep web contains data or content that’s stored in databases and that support services on the surface web, e.g., social media platforms or bank websites.
On certain dark web sites and pages, people can purchase guns and drugs, or hire hitmen and prostitutes. Though the name implies it exists in some underground virtual catacombs completely hidden from view, the deep web is actually something you probably access every day. The term refers to parts of the Internet you have to log in to view; the pages that need passwords, or payments, to be accessed. Therefore, as Daily Dot points out, you’re on the deep web every time you log in to social media, or your email.
The terms deep web and dark web are often used interchangeably, but they refer to significantly different aspects of the internet. This article will clarify the distinctions between the two, shedding light on their definitions, characteristics, and purposes.
These groups develop their own sophisticated malware, sometimes combined with pre-existing tools, and distribute them through “affiliates”. The Tor browser, used to access darknets, was designed to facilitate anonymous message sharing among U.S. spies spread across the world. Tor’s development began in the ’90s, and it was released as publicly available software in the early 2000s.
What is the Deep Web?
Not only can the information available be a company’s breached credentials from a malicious actor, but it can also be shared information from an employee’s accidental leak. There’s countless sources that cybersecurity teams need to monitor and scan in order to get the full view of your digital footprint. Without an efficient solution, information leaks can be easily missed, particularly, due to the wide variety of information leaks that your team may not be tracking. On the other hand, the dark web is a small portion of the deep web that is obscured and cannot be accessed via ordinary browsers such as Firefox, Safari, Chrome, and Opera.
- One of the best ways you can keep yourself and your information protected is by using strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
- McLaren Health Care is a network of 13 hospitals and three clinics serving the residents of north and central Michigan.
- It can also be accessed through data specific and internal search engines.
- That said, cybercriminals increasingly target this part of the internet because of the lucrative personal data lying within.
Any computer that runs Tor software can host a hidden (e.g., web) service. Dark Web users often find names out of band, for example, from pastebin or Dark Web market lists. Tor networks are popular solutions for maintaining anonymity and privacy and for defeating traffic analysis. Journalists, whistleblowers, dissidents, or generally any Internet users who do not want third parties to track their behavior or interests.
The deep web encompasses all parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. This includes a variety of content that requires specific access, such as:
- Online banking portals
- Email accounts
- Medical records
- Corporate databases
- Subscription services and paywalled content
Despite its name, the deep web is not illegal or malicious. In fact, it constitutes a vast majority of the internet’s content, with estimates suggesting that it is over 500 times larger than the surface web.
Characteristics of the Deep Web
The following features highlight the nature of the deep web:
- Inaccessible to search engines: Unlike regular websites, content on the deep web cannot be found through traditional search engine queries.
- Requires specific access credentials: It typically requires usernames, passwords, or other forms of authentication to view.
- Varied content types: The deep web includes databases, personal information, and proprietary content.
What is the Dark Web?
On the other hand, the dark web is a small segment of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible through standard web browsers. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access.
The dark web is often associated with illegal activities, but it also serves legitimate purposes, such as:
- Anonymous communication for whistleblowers and activists
- Forums for discussing sensitive topics, including privacy rights
- Marketplaces for privacy-focused services
Characteristics of the Dark Web
The dark web is characterized by:
- Anonymity: Users typically remain anonymous through the use of specific software like Tor.
- Unregulated marketplace: It hosts various marketplaces, some of which may sell illicit items and services.
- Cryptocurrency transactions: Many transactions are conducted using cryptocurrencies to maintain anonymity.
Deep Web vs Dark Web: Key Differences
Understanding the distinctions between the deep web and the dark web can be simplified into the following key points:
| Aspect | Deep Web | Dark Web |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Requires credentials or subscriptions | Requires specific software (e.g., Tor) |
| Content | Legitimate and varied content | Often associated with illegal activities |
| Searchability | Not indexed by search engines | Also not indexed, but hidden intentionally |
| Anonymity | Less focus on anonymity | High focus on user anonymity |
FAQs About Deep Web vs Dark Web
Is the deep web dangerous?
Generally, the deep web is not dangerous. However, users must exercise caution and protect their sensitive information.
Can I access the dark web legally?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal. However, engaging in illegal activities while on it is against the law.
How do I safely explore the dark web?
If someone chooses to explore the dark web, they should:
- Use a reliable VPN for additional anonymity.
- Only access well-known and trusted sites.
- Be cautious about sharing personal information.
In conclusion, the deep web vs dark web debate reveals the complexity of today’s online landscape. By understanding the differences, users can navigate the internet more safely and responsibly.
