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When discussing the internet, two terms often come up – deep web and dark web. While they may sound similar, they are actually quite different. Let’s delve into the distinctions between these two mysterious parts of the web.
A particular browser like Tor is needed along with select PC settings and authorization. Darknet resources are not indexed by public search engines like Google and cannot be found through regular searches, as the Darknet has its search engines. The Dark Web is an anonymous, encrypted network that sends traffic worldwide via nodes to disguise a user’s online footprint. The activities of dark web users are unknown because the encryption technology of the darknet directs user data through many intermediate servers to conceal the identity and location of the users. It’s important to note that not all information on the deep web is nefarious in nature, as it is primarily used to protect data. The deep web consists of websites and pages that are not indexed by search engines, and therefore cannot be searched or easily discovered by the public.
- The dark web included famous criminal marketplaces like Silk Road and Alphabay, where users could buy and sell drugs, stolen credit cards, and hacking tools,” added Wilson.
- The information people access on the Surface Web is nothing compared to the information available on the Dark Web.
- There are also great resources on cryptocurrency and encryption on the dark web.
- Interestingly, the Dark Web can cause problems within the Deep Web.
- Consider managed services if you want a layered approach to cyber security that protects you from the more sinister layers of the Internet.
Deep Web
MORE ON SECURITY
The deep web refers to any part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. This includes websites that require login credentials, databases, private networks, and other unindexed content. The deep web is estimated to be significantly larger than the surface web we commonly browse.
Key Points about the Deep Web:
While some deep web sites can be accessed through special browsers such as Tor, the only way to access the dark web is through special browsers. Keep in mind however, that for protected websites like online banking portals, even if a company has millions of users on its site, that doesn’t mean that each user creates unique deep web pages. Basically, the deep web makes up a majority of the Internet because it is all the content you can’t find on search engines, such as a corporation’s private database or a company internal website pages. In this method, messages and communication are encapsulated in layers of encryption, like onion layers, so it is hard to detect.
Indian Cyber Security Regulating Bodies
- Not accessible through regular search engines
- Contains a vast amount of information
- Includes legitimate content like academic databases and private email accounts
When talking about the deep web, it is safer until you plan to intrude into someone else’s privacy. But when discussing the dark web, even going for legitimate business can put you at risk. ZDNET tested the best VPNs available based on speed, number of servers, security features, price, and more.
Dark Web
What Are the Risks of Using the Dark Web?
On the other hand, the dark web is a small portion of the deep web that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is known for being a hub of illicit activities, such as drug trafficking, hacking services, and illegal marketplaces. Users often access the dark web using special software like Tor.
This week, the cybersecurity environment continued to be rocked by the global MOVEit data breach. Various Stanford Health groups had information taken in the MOVEit event, up to 1.6 million patient records. Cybersecurity breaches are at epidemic proportions; in the last two years, cybercriminals have stolen over 2.6 billion consumer records from thousands of organizations. Across the US, cybercriminals stole the information of 58.4 million consumers, patients, and students. To find out if your information is leaked on the Dark Web — you can rely on Aura’s identity theft protection service. Lots of criminal activity happens on the Dark Web because it offers the anonymity that enables hackers and scammers to go undetected — but only up to a certain point.
Key Points about the Dark Web:
- Intentionally hidden and requires specific tools to access
- Associated with illegal activities
- Users can remain anonymous through encryption and anonymity tools
FAQs
What is the main difference between the deep web and dark web?
The main difference is the type of content they contain. The deep web consists of unindexed content, while the dark web is intentionally hidden and associated with illicit activities.
Is it illegal to access the deep web or dark web?
No, accessing the deep web itself is not illegal as it includes legitimate content. However, some activities on the dark web may be illegal, so caution is advised when exploring this part of the internet.
In conclusion, while both the deep web and dark web exist beyond the reach of traditional search engines, they serve different purposes and house distinct types of content. Understanding the disparities between these two realms can help users navigate the complexities of the internet more effectively.