Is The Dark Web Safe?
Introduction to the Deep Web
Most users on the Dark Web are logged into a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to further conceal themselves. Essentially, the Dark Web uses a cluster of nodes and networks called “darknets.” These include — but aren’t limited to — peer-to-peer networks — small and big — including Tor and Freenet. While most people access the internet through common web browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, and Edge, there are deeper levels of the internet that aren’t accessible by the average user.
As many as 70.79% of users claim to use the Tor browser for anonymity, 62.28% said they use it for additional security, and 27.07% used it out of curiosity about the dark web. Get Norton 360 Deluxe to help protect the personal data you send and receive online. If you are looking for a VPN to use while accessing the Dark Web, NordVPN is a good choice.
The terms deep web and dark web are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not the same. The dark web is a segment of the larger deep web and similarly refers to anything on the internet that is not indexed by and, therefore, accessible via a search engine like Google. Every search engine uses bots to crawl the web and add the new content they find to the search engine’s index. It isn’t known how large the deep web is, but many experts estimate that search engines crawl and index less than 1% of all the content that can be accessed over the internet. The searchable content of the web is referred to as the surface web.
The deep web is often misunderstood and conflated with the dark web. However, the deep web encompasses all parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines. This includes databases, private corporate sites, academic resources, and much more.
Now you have a Tor browser and you can access the dark web safely on your iPhone. URLs of darknet websites are known as “Tor Hidden Services” and can be identified from regular websites. The websites which are indexed by the search engines is called the clear web, and it is only 4% of internet rest is filled by deep web and dark web.
Most people get confused between the Deep Web and the Darknet (or Dark Web). The Deep Web refers to all parts of the Internet which search engines can’t find. This can be anything from secure academic archives, library databases, members only websites and all the way up to the Darknet which I’ll talk about shortly. Notorious ransomware groups are the ones that use onion.ly links most often.
Content on the Deep Web is not found by most search engines because it is stored in a database which is not coded in HTML. Google and Bing might lead us to a front door [a search interface], but it generally can’t search the content of a databse. It is up to you to search the database where the results of your search are loaded into a dynamically generated HTML page for viewing. The dark web is content that exists on dark nets, which require specialized software (like the Tor Browser), configurations and authorization to access. These can include the previously mentioned illegal offerings, but can also include ultra-private information designed to be shared only with certain parties.
Understanding the Deep Web vs. Dark Web
It’s crucial to distinguish between the deep web and the dark web:
Sites like ProPublica and Secure Drop are fundamental to investigative journalism. To access deep web pages, you need the specific link to the page you want to access. Often, you also need to provide some kind of authentication, such as a password. Depending on the VM solution you use, you can still harm your network, which can pose risks to your other devices as well. So we do not recommend you do this if you just want to visit the dark web once or twice. NordVPN offers obfuscated servers in several countries, including Germany, Spain, Hong Kong, and the United States.
- Deep Web: Contains information that isn’t indexed, including academic articles, medical records, and more.
- Dark Web: A small part of the deep web intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard browsers. It’s often associated with illegal activities.
How to Access Deep Web
Accessing the deep web requires specific tools and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access deep web content safely:
Step 1: Use the Right Browser
Most conventional web browsers cannot access deep web content. You will need:
- Tor Browser: A popular choice that allows users to browse anonymously.
- Freenet: A decentralized platform that allows for anonymous browsing and publishing.
Step 2: Install the Browser
Follow these steps to install the Tor browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the appropriate version for your operating system.
- Install the browser by following the on-screen instructions.
Step 3: Configure Your Privacy Settings
Before you start browsing, it’s essential to enhance your privacy:
- Use security settings to the highest level.
- Turn off JavaScript to prevent tracking.
- Avoid sharing personal information.
Step 4: Find Deep Web Resources
There are various resources you can utilize to find content in the deep web:
- Specialized Directories: Websites like DuckDuckGo and Not Evil can help you navigate.
- Forums and Communities: Engaging with communities focused on deep web content can provide valuable resources.
Safety Measures When Accessing the Deep Web
- TheWindowsClub covers authentic Windows 11, Windows 10 tips, tutorials, how-to’s, features, freeware.
- Given its anonymous nature, the dark web is also used for illicit and even illegal purposes.
- Accessing the deep web doesn’t require a special browser or unique protocols.
- Please refer to our article on LockBit 3.0 ransomware case study, where we determine how ransomware is distributed and what must be done to prevent it.
While browsing the deep web, consider the following safety practices:
- Always use a VPN in conjunction with Tor for an extra layer of security.
- Be cautious about downloading files or clicking links.
- Stay clear of illegal activities to avoid legal repercussions.
FAQs
1. Is accessing the deep web illegal?
Accessing the deep web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities within it is.
2. Can I access deep web content using my regular browser?
No, regular browsers are not suitable for accessing deep web resources because they cannot process the required protocols.
3. What kind of information can I find on the deep web?
You can find a variety of information, including:
- Academic databases
- Medical records
- Archived websites
- Forums and discussion groups
Conclusion
Knowing how to access deep web resources opens up a hidden realm of information that is not easily accessible through mainstream channels. Ensure you prioritize your safety and privacy as you explore the depths of the web.
