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Understanding the Deep Web
- As you might expect, browsing the deep web isn’t quite as simple as clicking on a few links or searching Google.
- Accessing the link alone can become a legal problem depending on the country you reside.
- When it comes to dark web safety, the deep web dangers are very different from dark web dangers.
- The best way to prevent your browsing activity from alerting authorities is to avoid sites with illegal activity altogether — another reason to only visit sites you’ve researched and trust.
For added safety, first connect to a VPN, then use Tor in a practice known as Tor-over-VPN. Many internet service providers (ISPs) and governments may be suspicious of Tor use, and a VPN will hide your internet activity and prevent anyone from knowing that you’re using Tor. The websites you visit every day represent just a small fraction of the whole internet.
The deep web refers to the part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines like Google or Bing. This encompasses a vast array of content, including databases, private corporate websites, academic resources, and more.
Deep web, conversely, refers to non-indexable parts of the internet—content that’s only accessible through the use of passwords, encryption, or situationally with specific software. The deep web accounts for over 90% of information on the internet. Surface web, also known as visible web, refers to the indexable parts of the internet.
What is the Deep Web?
The Tor Network provided a way to open safe communication channels for political dissidents, while also offering a channel for American intelligence operatives to communicate from around the globe. Journalists in overly restrictive countries also appreciate the anonymity of the dark web. The dark web is infamous for containing sites such as Silk Road and other marketplaces where users could potentially buy drugs and/or weapons, stolen credit cards, IDs, and much more.
Tails itself stands for The Amnesiac Incognito Live System, which just about sums up why it’s one of the best options for some deep web browsing. None of this means that people can’t find the information you post. It just means they won’t be able to get to it from search engines. The internet has transformed the world in unexpected and profound ways. Seemingly an omnipresent existence, its complexities and impact can sometimes be seen as difficult to fully comprehend.
Just because a page cannot be accessed by search engines doesn’t mean it’s trying to promote illicit activity. Similarly, logging on to the Tor browser in order to browse the dark web doesn’t mean you’re breaking any laws. What is illegal, however, is buying illegal items like drugs or counterfeit documents, regardless of what browser you use. Tor over VPN requires you to trust your VPN provider, which can see that you are using Tor and keep metadata logs, though it can’t actually see the content of your encrypted Tor traffic.
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. These websites exist in directories that Google (and other search engines) are barred from crawling. Even free online services that are open to the public can be categorized as part of the deep web.
Unlike the surface web, which is accessible to anyone with a standard web browser, the deep web requires specific tools and knowledge to navigate. Within the deep web, there is a smaller segment known as the dark web, which is often associated with illegal activities, but it also hosts vital services and information.
It is difficult to determine the exact size of the dark web, as it is not indexed by traditional search engines, and its contents are often hidden behind layers of encryption and anonymity. However, it is estimated that the dark web makes up only a small fraction of the overall internet, likely less than 0.01% of the total content. Additionally, the dark web has a unique registry operator and uses security tools like encryption and firewalls, further making it inaccessible via traditional web browsers.
How to Get Into Deep Web
Getting into the deep web isn’t as straightforward as browsing standard websites. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get into deep web safely:
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Download the Right Browser
- The most common method to access the deep web is using the Tor Browser. This browser is specifically designed to allow users to browse the web anonymously.
- You can download the Tor Browser from the official Tor Project website.
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Install the Tor Browser
- Once downloaded, install the browser by following the provided instructions.
- Be sure to follow any security recommendations provided during the installation process.
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Use a VPN
- While the Tor network provides anonymity, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can further enhance your privacy.
- Select a reputable VPN service that has a no-logging policy.
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Connect to the Tor Network
- Open the Tor Browser and click the “Connect” button.
- Once connected, you can start browsing .onion websites and other deep web resources.
Safety Tips for Deep Web Browsing
While exploring the deep web, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Here are some essential tips:
- Do not share personal information: Avoid providing any identifiable information to maintain your anonymity.
- Be cautious of links: Many links on the deep web can lead to malicious sites. Verify sources and avoid clicking on unknown links.
- Use secure passwords: If signing up for services, use strong, unique passwords to protect your accounts.
- Avoid illegal activities: Many illegal activities occur on the deep web; steer clear of these to avoid potential legal repercussions.
Common Misconceptions About the Deep Web
Often, the deep web is confused with the dark web. Here are some clarifications:
- The deep web is not illegal: Many legitimate and legal resources exist within the deep web.
- The dark web is a subset of the deep web: Not all deep web content is illicit; the dark web specifically hosts illegal activities.
FAQs About Accessing the Deep Web
What is a .onion site?
A .onion site is a special domain that can only be accessed through the Tor network. These sites provide an extra layer of anonymity for both users and site administrators.
Is it safe to explore the deep web?
While there are safe areas within the deep web, there are also many risks. Always prioritize your safety and anonymity.
Can law enforcement monitor deep web activity?
Law enforcement can monitor certain activities on the deep web, especially if illegal activities are involved. Maintaining anonymity is crucial.
By following these guidelines, users can understand how to get into deep web responsibly. Whether for research, curiosity, or specific needs, navigating the deep web requires caution and awareness.
