Understanding the Deep Web
The deep web refers to parts of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing.
If we continue to visualize the entire web like an iceberg, the open web would be the top portion that’s above the water. From a statistical standpoint, this collective of websites and data makes up under 5% of the total internet. Bart is Senior Product Marketing Manager of Threat Intelligence at CrowdStrike and holds +20 years of experience in threat monitoring, detection and intelligence. Spam and phishing attacks may originate from a dark web marketplace, but a user has to download something infected from that marketplace to release malware. See how to defend your systems and data with our innovative digital risk protection solutions. By following the steps outlined above and using a reliable VPN and the Tor browser, you can access dark web pages without putting yourself at risk.
While the surface web is what most users access daily, the deep web contains a wealth of information that is not easily accessible.
- On Tor, you can type in any URL you’d like to visit, including .onion domains on the dark web.
- Because when you are using only tor network it may possible to detect by ISP provider or other government agencies.
- Naval Research Lab in the 1990s, onion routers get their name from the onion-like layering technique that conceals information about user activity and location.
It is essential to differentiate between the deep web and the dark web, as the latter is a small portion of the deep web known for illicit activities.
Tor is useful in countries where internet access is monitored or restricted. The deep web is generally safe and secure to use; owners of private websites or services are responsible for maintaining their security. That said, cybercriminals increasingly target this part of the internet because of the lucrative personal data lying within. That’s why basic online hygiene has become critical to protecting yourself online. Whether your search engine of choice is Google, Bing, Baidu, Yahoo! The true internet – that which includes content not indexed by these search engines – is hundreds of times bigger.
In fact, there are jobs and entire industries that operate solely on the internet. Schools, now more than ever, are using the internet to broaden their horizons. They’re connecting with other schools around the world, using international resources, playing new games, and more.
How to Access the Deep Web
Accessing the deep web often requires additional tools and strategies. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to access the deep web.
You can access the dark web on mobile with a dedicated dark web browser app. Install a mobile dark web browsing app — like Tor browser for Android or the Onion browser for iPhone — and enter a [dot] onion URL to start browsing. Avast BreachGuard monitors the dark web for data breaches around the clock.
Abuse and persecution victims, whistleblowers, and political dissidents have been frequent users of these hidden sites. But of course, these benefits can be easily extended to those that want to act outside of the constraints of laws in other explicitly illegal ways. When it comes to dark web safety, the deep web dangers are very different from dark web dangers. Illegal cyber activity cannot necessarily be stumbled upon easily but tends to be much more extreme and threatening if you do seek it out. Before we unpack the dark web’s threats, let’s explore how and why users access these sites. The dark web refers to sites that are not indexed and only accessible via specialized web browsers.
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Use a Specialized Browser
The most common method to access the deep web is through the Tor browser. This browser allows users to navigate websites that end in the .onion domain.
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Download and Install Tor
Follow these steps to download the Tor browser:
- Visit the official Tor Project website.
- Download the browser for your operating system.
- Follow the installation instructions provided.
Deep Web Vs Dark Web: What You Need To Know To Stay Safe
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Connect to the Tor Network
Once installed, open the Tor browser and connect to the Tor network. This process helps anonymize your internet activity.
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Browse Deep Web Directories
To find deep web content, visit directories like:
- The Hidden Wiki
- Ahmia
- Not Evil
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Use Caution and Stay Safe
Always prioritize your safety. Do not share personal information and use a VPN for additional privacy.
Remember only to make purchases using digital currencies and never provide any online banking login details. Wherever you go online, but especially if you’re on dark web websites, using a VPN helps you secure your data and protect your personal information. Avast SecureLine VPN encrypts all of your internet traffic to block hackers and keeps snoops out.
It is important to note that not all activities on the Dark Web are illegal. There are communities and forums focused on various topics, including technology, privacy, cryptography, and more. Some websites on the Dark Web offer legal services, such as secure email providers, encrypted messaging platforms, and anonymous publishing platforms. One of the misconceptions about the Dark Web is that it is entirely nefarious.
Understanding Deep Web Content
The deep web consists of various types of content. Some common examples include:
- Academic databases
- Medical records
- Government resources
- Private forums and databases
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the deep web illegal?
Accessing the deep web is not illegal; however, some content within it may be against the law. Always exercise caution.
2. Do I need special software to access the deep web?
Yes, using the Tor browser is the most recommended way to access the deep web.
3. Is my information safe on the deep web?
While the Tor network adds a layer of anonymity, it does not guarantee complete safety. Always use security measures like VPNs.
4. What should I avoid on the deep web?
Avoid engaging in illegal activities, sharing personal information, and clicking on suspicious links.
Conclusion
Learning how to access the deep web opens up new realms of information and resources. By using specialized tools like the Tor browser and adhering to safe browsing practices, users can navigate this vast and often misunderstood part of the internet.
