Dark Deep Web

Exploring the Dark Deep Web

In the vast landscape of the internet, there exists a hidden corner known as the dark deep web. This area is not easily accessible through conventional search engines, and it hosts a variety of content that is both intriguing and perplexing.

At SOCRadar, we leverage our Machine Learning and AI technology to normalize and classify terabytes of processed data and deliver actionable threat intelligence to SOC teams. How the non-indexing part of the deep web actually works is the sites are concealed behind passwords or security walls. In some instances, websites may alert search engines for certain web pages to not appear.

Instead, fee-for-service sites give access to premium productivity tools only to those who can afford them. In many cases, crucial tools cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars, creating barriers to entry. Using Tor means your ISP won’t be able to see the sites you visit, but they will be able to see you accessed Tor. By connecting to a trusted VPN (or Virtual Private Network) first and then using Tor, your connection to the Tor network will be entirely hidden from your ISP or other prying eyes. This gives you another layer of privacy and is a widely used method known as ‘Tor over VPN’. For an additional layer of privacy, make sure you use one of the top server locations to connect to using your VPN.

What is the Dark Deep Web?

You need special software to access the Dark Web because a lot of it is encrypted, and most of the dark web pages are hosted anonymously. DuckDuckGo is a dark web search engine that’s also available on the surface web. Unlike other search engines, DuckDuckGo guarantees your privacy as it doesn’t collect or share any of your personal information. This is an ideal choice if you want to boost your online anonymity. This information remains invisible to search engines like Google for many reasons. It might use anti-robot technologies like CAPTCHAs, store the data in ways that crawlers don’t recognize, or lock the data behind password protection.

Examples of deep web content include password-protected websites, online banking platforms, and corporate intranets. While the deep web is not inherently illegal or dangerous, it does harbor the potential for misuse if accessed with malicious intent. Not all websites on the dark web facilitate illegal activities, however. For instance, the dark web can be a conduit for uncensored information in countries where free speech is restricted or closely monitored by the government. People living in countries with oppressive regimes often lack ready access to news and critically important information pertaining to their society’s social and economic well-being. People in these countries can use the deep web to gather crucial information and export it out of the country.

Activists, dissidents, and even journalists in draconian states use the Dark Web to hide their locations while exchanging sensitive data. For example, citizens of countries like North Korea use the Dark Web to share information. Activists during the Arab Spring in some Middle Eastern countries leveraged the Dark Web to cover their tracks to organize events. And many prominent news platforms have Dark Web drop sites for anonymous tips. As long as there’s a demand for the ability to privately browse the internet and, more importantly, host websites anonymously, the deep web will exist. Due to its decentralized structure, there is no real way to “shut down” the deep net, just like you can’t really shut down the regular internet.

That said, deep web content doesn’t necessarily have to fall into any of these categories. Any page that is non-indexable is technically also considered part of the deep web. Website creators and managers can mark pages as non-indexable if desired. The internet you use to search for more information is referred to as the surface web or open web.

How To Safely Access The Best Dark Web Sites And Dark Web Links

The dark deep web refers specifically to parts of the internet that require special software, configurations, or authorization to access. Unlike the surface web, which is indexed by search engines like Google, the dark deep web lies beneath the surface, often associated with anonymous browsing and unregulated activities.

Understanding the Structure

Completing a transaction involves using some form of untraceable cryptocurrency. The Guardian called the dark web markets “the eBay of drug dealing” because drugs are among the most common goods on the dark web marketplaces. They were the most lucrative products on the Silk Road marketplace too. Dark web users can also find and buy other illegal substances, such as banned energy drinks.

• Similarly, they determine the specific interests of visitors’ navigation and present appropriate content.
• On the internet, the deep web is not indexed by web crawlers, while the dark web is intentionally kept hidden.
• It is illegal to perform illegal acts on the dark web, regardless of the level of anonymity provided by the platform.
• Other examples include your bank account page and the settings page of your social media account, the admin page of your blog, and some academic journals.
• Conversely, the deep web is a regular part of the online experience for almost every internet user.

The internet can be divided into three main layers:

This is a great way to further the freedom of information around the globe. Sci-Hub is mostly useful for academics who know the PMID, DOI, or URLs of papers they want to access. At the same time, websites like the Imperial Library of Trantor store stuff that’s interesting to the broader public. When using such websites, especially if you plan on asking some personal questions yourself, an extra layer of security is always welcome. If you use a VPN, your data gets encrypted before it even reaches the Tor Network.

• Surface Web: This is the part of the internet that is visible and accessible to the public, constituting about 4% of total internet content.
• Deep Web: This section includes all content that is not indexed by traditional search engines, such as databases, private corporate websites, and personal accounts, making up approximately 90% of the internet.
• Dark Web: A small, hidden part of the deep web that requires specific software to access, typically using tools like Tor or I2P.

Accessing the Dark Deep Web

To navigate the dark deep web, users commonly employ:

• Tor Browser: This software allows users to access .onion websites, providing anonymity and privacy.
• I2P: An overlay network that encrypts user’s data and allows access to the dark deep web.

The Usage and Content of the Dark Deep Web

The dark deep web serves various purposes, ranging from the benign to the illicit. Some common uses include:

• Whistleblowing: Platforms like SecureDrop allow whistleblowers to share sensitive information anonymously.
• Forums and Communities: Niche interest groups often congregate here to discuss different topics without fear of scrutiny.
• Illicit Activities: Unfortunately, the dark deep web is also notorious for illegal drug sales, weapons trafficking, and the distribution of stolen data.

Risks Associated with the Dark Deep Web

While there may be legitimate uses for accessing the dark deep web, it carries significant risks:

• Illegal Activities: Engaging in any illegal activity can lead to serious consequences, including arrest and prosecution.
• Scams and Fraud: Many sites are unregulated, making users vulnerable to scams targeting those looking to purchase illegal goods or services.
• Malware Risks: The potential for downloading malicious software is high, endangering personal devices and private information.

FAQs About the Dark Deep Web

What is the difference between the dark web and the deep web?

The deep web encompasses all unindexed content on the internet, while the dark web is a specific part of the deep web requiring special tools for access.

Is it legal to access the dark web?

Accessing the dark web is not illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities on it most certainly is.

How can I stay safe on the dark deep web?

To ensure safety while browsing:

• Use VPNs for additional anonymity.
• Steer clear of illegal content and transactions.
• Be wary of the websites and links you follow.

In conclusion, the dark deep web serves as a fascinating yet perilous expanse of the internet. By understanding its structure, uses, risks, and the distinctions between various layers, users can navigate this hidden digital realm with greater awareness and caution.