The Dark Web In The News
Exploring the Dark Deep Web
The dark deep web is a term that often evokes a sense of mystery and danger. It is the hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. This hidden realm is known for hosting a variety of content, including both benign and illicit activities.
What is the Deep Web?
However, today’s most popular search engines — including Google, Bing, and DuckDuckGo — only index a portion of the internet. As always, protect yourself from online threats with mobile Android security or iOS security software. And use a VPN for Android or VPN for iOS to get a secure, anonymous connection. In 2002, the dark web grew significantly when researchers supported by the US Naval Research Laboratory built and released the Tor network. At the time, the internet was still young, and tracking people was easy while staying anonymous was not. The Tor network was created to open safe communication channels for political dissidents and American intelligence operatives around the world.
The internet opened the door to a realm of possibilities that permanently changed the business landscape and our personal lives. In a world of bulk data collection, surveillance, and personalized ad tracking, it’s up to us to take control of our personal privacy. Install Avast SecureLine VPN for iOS to protect your privacy and keep your data from falling into the wrong hands.
Since I was focused on marketing technology, I didn’t want the domain with my name to get in the way, so I moved the site (painfully) to its new domain in 2008 where it’s grown ever since. I began blogging on Blogger and waxed poetic about everything from politics to Internet tools. I was all over the place and mostly wrote for myself – without much of an audience.
The internet can be divided into several layers, which include:
In fact, it is likely some 500 times larger than the surface web and may contain as much as 96 percent of online content. Much of this content is in the form of databases that are accessible only by password or subscription or for a fee. Brands don’t want to find their breached data on the Dark Web… it’s a PR nightmare. There are dark web monitoring solutions out there for brands and you’re likely already being monitored by other organizations for your personal information being found. Some can even be accessed via a typical browser section… others are Wiki-style directories that are assembled by users. Some utilize AI to identify and exclude illegal information… others are open to indexing everything.
The Tor Browser is an encrypted network used for surfing the dark web. The level of encryption provides anonymous internet browsing for all users. If you want to visit the deep web — even if it’s just to check out your dental bill or the balance in your online bank account —equip your device with trusted security software and keep it up to date. The deep web can help protect personal information, but that doesn’t mean that clever hackers can’t still crack the sits on it. Cybercriminals often use tactics like credential stuffing and password spraying to obtain the details they need to steal and expose your data. One of the best ways you can keep yourself and your information protected is by using strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
- Surface Web: The part of the web that is indexed and accessible through standard search engines.
- Deep Web: This comprises all parts of the internet not indexed by search engines. It includes databases, private corporate sites, academic resources, and more.
- Dark Web: A small portion of the deep web that has been intentionally hidden and is inaccessible using standard web browsers.
Due to the fluid and unofficial nature of the dark web, nobody knows how big it is. Think about how many people will see the Gmail login screen on the clear net and how many individual Gmail accounts there are on the deep web. Now apply that logic to everything else, and you can start to grasp the difference in scale.
But as a result, Tor Browser will feel much slower than a normal web browser. Before accessing the dark web, install strong security software to keep your device protected. For added safety, first connect to a VPN, then use Tor in a practice known as Tor-over-VPN. Many internet service providers (ISPs) and governments may be suspicious of Tor use, and a VPN will hide your internet activity and prevent anyone from knowing that you’re using Tor. That groundwork was the basis for the Tor Project, which was released in 2002 and launched a browser in 2008.
Accessing the Dark Deep Web
To access the dark deep web, users typically need specialized software, the most popular being Tor (The Onion Router). This software anonymizes users’ identities by routing their internet traffic through multiple servers, making it difficult to trace. Here’s how to access it:
- Download and install the Tor browser from the official Tor Project website.
- Use the Tor browser to enter .onion websites, which are specific to the dark web.
- Ensure to remain aware of your online security and anonymity while browsing.
- The Silk Road was just one of dozens of dark web marketplaces that have cropped up over the years.
- The dark web is a common gathering place for hackers and other cybercriminals, which can make browsing the dark web a risky activity.
- But it isn’t the sinister abyss of illegal and disturbing activity that the media clamors about.
- There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data.
- Instead of “.com” or “.org”, dark web addresses can be distinguished by the top-level domain, “.onion“.
Contents of the Dark Deep Web
The dark deep web hosts a variety of content, which can include:
- Forums and Chat Rooms: Spaces where users can discuss sensitive topics more freely.
- Marketplaces: Venues for buying and selling illegal goods and services, such as drugs or stolen data.
- Whistleblowing Platforms: Sites that allow individuals to leak confidential information without fear of retaliation.
- Artistic Expression: Some artists and writers use the dark web to share their work without censorship.
Risks Involved with the Dark Deep Web
While the dark deep web can provide anonymity and freedom, it is not without risks:
- Legal Issues: Many activities on the dark web are illegal, and engaging in them can lead to serious consequences.
- Scams and Fraud: Users risk falling victim to scams, as many services lack regulatory oversight.
- Malware: Downloading files from untrusted sources can expose users to malware and cyber attacks.
- Exposure to Disturbing Content: Users may encounter graphic or disturbing materials that can be distressing.
FAQs About the Dark Deep Web
1. Is the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark deep web itself is not illegal, but many activities within it are. Users should research laws specific to their jurisdiction.
2. Can I use a regular browser to access the dark web?
No, you need specialized software like Tor to access .onion websites and navigate the dark deep web.
3. What should I be aware of before accessing the dark web?
Users should be cautious and informed about the potential risks, including scams, legal repercussions, and privacy concerns.
4. Are there legal uses of the dark web?
Yes, journalists, activists, and whistleblowers may use the dark deep web to communicate securely and share information without fear of censorship.
In conclusion, the dark deep web presents a complex landscape filled with both opportunities and dangers. It is crucial for users to navigate this hidden part of the internet with caution, understanding both its potential and its pitfalls.
