Deep Web vs. Dark Web | What is the Difference?

The deep web and dark web have a reputation that precedes them- and not in a good way. It is likely that when one thinks of these parts of the world wide web, one can’t help but think of scary men in black masks and dark-lit rooms exercising illicit activities.

In fact, both terms are mistakenly considered the same and are often used interchangeably; however, they are anything but. Let’s raise the curtains to awareness and highlight the differences between Deep Web and Dark Web. Be forewarned; you might come to doubt everything you thought to be true.

This article banishes the stereotypes, reveals possible uses, and explains the right procedure to enter the dark and deep web.

What Comes Under the Deep Web?

The Deep Web refers to any part of the internet not indexed by search engines like Google. This includes websites behind paywalls, requiring login credentials, or being part of private networks. The Deep Web is estimated to be much larger than the portion of the internet accessible through search engines. 

Almost 90% of all websites are found on the deep web, which is dug subsurface. 

You likely already utilize the deep web if you’re wondering how to access it. The phrase “deep web” refers to all online sites that search engines cannot recognize, like legal records, HIPPA-sensitive information, such as medical records, accounts for social media and email, databases for private businesses, or financial accounts such as retirement and banking.

The “hidden” stuff on the deeper web is generally more dependable and clean. The deep web includes everything, even pages you visit when you bank online and blog entries that are now being reviewed and redesigned. The deep web doesn’t endanger your computer or your general safety.

What Comes Under the Dark Web?

The Dark Web is a small portion of the Deep Web that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers. Access to the Dark Web requires specific software, configurations, or authorization, and it is often used for illegal activities such as selling drugs, weapons, and stolen data. 

It’s worth noting that while the dark web is often associated with illegal activities, not everything on the dark web is necessarily illegal. There are legitimate uses for the dark web, such as providing anonymity to journalists and activists in countries with oppressive regimes, as well as serving as a platform for free speech and privacy.

Deep Web vs. Dark Web – Possible Uses

The Deep Web is a much larger part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines. In contrast, the Dark Web is a small portion of the Deep Web that requires specific software or authorization to access and is often used for illegal activities.

The Deep Web refers to any part of the internet not indexed by search engines like Google or Bing. This includes password-protected websites, databases, and other content that is not accessible through normal web browsing. Most of the content on the Deep Web is perfectly legal and includes things like online banking systems, academic databases, and medical records.

The Deep web is a light in a dark tunnel for those who use it correctly. In fact, it could be the perfect tool for a job that searches for answers in the hidden space of reality. The path only ends at a dark dead end for those who succumb to its darkness.

The Dark Web, on the other hand, is a subset of the Deep Web that is intentionally hidden and often associated with illegal activities. It can only be accessed using special software like Tor, which allows users to remain anonymous and untraceable. The Dark Web is used for a variety of purposes, both legal and illegal, including:

1. Dark Web marketplaces sell illegal goods and services, including drugs, weapons, stolen data, and counterfeit money.
2. The Dark Web is also a hub for hackers and cybercriminals, who sell tools and services such as malware, botnets, and hacking tutorials.
3. Stolen personal data, including credit card details, social security numbers, and login credentials, can be bought and sold on the Dark Web. Forums and chat rooms for hackers, cybercriminals, and other criminal elements to share information and collaborate.
4. Child pornography and contract killing.
5. Whistleblower sites offer a platform for whistleblowers to share sensitive information anonymously without fear of retaliation.

Risks of Accessing Deep Web

Using the deep web without safety precautions might be perilous. You could very possibly get your devices infected with viruses, malware, trojan horses, ransomware, or other harmful files. Other than that, you could also be putting stuff like your legal files, banking details, and other sensitive information in jeopardy.  

Risks of Accessing Dark Web

There are several risks associated with accessing the Deep Web, particularly if you are accessing the Dark Web.

Since many illegal activities occur on the Dark Web, including drug trafficking, illegal services, and child pornography, accessing these sites can put you at risk of criminal prosecution. You could also fall victim to one of the many scammers and lose your money or even become the target of criminal activity.

And while it’s true that the Dark Web can offer anonymity and privacy, there is no guarantee that your identity will remain hidden. Government agencies and law enforcement organizations are constantly monitoring the Dark Web, and if you engage in illegal activity or even accidentally reveal your identity, you could be at risk.

The Dark Web is also home to many disturbing and graphic images and videos, including violent content, extreme pornography, and gore. Accessing this content can be psychologically distressing and even traumatic.

How To Stay Safe Online?

Suffice it to say it is important to exercise caution and use common sense when browsing these sites. If you do choose to access the Dark or Deep Web, be sure to take the following steps to protect your privacy and security.

Safely Visit the Deep Web

The single most important thing you can do is download a reliable VPN that has anti-virus and is highly encrypted to obscure your identity online. For the highest grade protection, NordPVN is recommended.

A VPN can help you remain anonymous online by encrypting your internet connection and hiding your IP address. This makes it more difficult for others to track your online activity or identify your location.

Safely Visit the Dark Web

A VPN can help access the dark web safely by providing an extra layer of privacy and security, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activities, including your internet service provider (ISP), hackers, and government agencies.

To ensure complete anonymity or security, be sure to use a secure browser, such as the Tor browser, and avoid downloading unknown files from untrustworthy sources. Make sure to scan them with antivirus software before opening them.

Use strong passwords to prevent hackers from accessing your personal information, and be wary of phishing scams. But, most importantly, use common sense. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t engage in illegal activity, and avoid accessing disturbing or illegal content. 

Conclusion

While below the web iceberg is a frightening place, it also includes many useful materials, especially for researchers. Because of its anonymity, the Deep Web is a haven for illicit activities, including the trade in child pornography, the selling of illegal substances and firearms, and even the hiring of contract assassins.

Even an illegal version of eBay, called The Silk Road, is available on the Deep Web, where users may buy all kinds of illegal products and services. You risk facing legal action or being detained for violating a site’s terms of service and copyright by accessing this content. 

This makes it especially important to be safe if you decide to access them. Please use a VPN and follow the security protocols in such cases.