What is Dark Web: Everything you need to know

2024-10-17 08:53:53

By : JSB Market Research

In : BLOG

The internet can sometimes be a mysterious place. And here you can find something called the dark web. Is it a place where everything is dark? Well, sort of. If you take a look at the internet today, you can find almost everything on the World Wide Web.

Search engines like Google, Yahoo, Internet Explorer, and Firewall can answer all your questions. This is just the tip of an iceberg; beneath lies the dark secret of the dark web.

There are three layers to the internet: surface web, deep web, and dark web. You are mostly familiar with the surface web, which you can browse with your standard search engines.

Another layer of the web known as the dark web sometimes raises eyebrows. You may question what the dark web is and what happens on the dark web. You can read this blog further and learn everything about the dark web.

The three layers of the internet

Before we jump headfirst into the dark web, let’s know about the other two layers as well.

Surface Web: This is the layer you are most familiar with. This makes up 10% of the total web. This is where you surf daily, using standard search engines like Google and Yahoo. Everything from news outlets, blogs, and social media platforms can be found here.

Deep Web: The deep web consists of content not indexed by traditional search engines. You can find online banking sites, medical records, private and organizational databases, paid Netflix subscriptions, and more. This makes up for 90% of the internet.

Dark Web: The dark web lies within the deep web, which is kept hidden intentionally. You cannot access the dark web through traditional search engines. You can access the dark web through the Tor browser, also known as the Onion router. Each URL ends with a domain-name extension linked to the software required for its operation, i.e., ".onion.”

What is the dark web?

The dark web is a hidden corner of the internet where everything is anonymous. While it is often associated with illegal activities like drug trafficking, weapons sales, and cybercrime, it also serves as a platform for privacy advocates, journalists, and individuals living under oppressive regimes who seek secure communication channels.

How does one access the dark web?

You can operate the dark web using the browser Tor (The Onion Router), which enables the user to browse the internet anonymously. When you use Tor, your data is encrypted and goes through multiple servers, making it difficult to trace back to the user. This anonymity can be both beneficial and problematic; it offers free speech and privacy while also attracting illicit behavior.

What are the risks of using the dark web?

It may seem like the dark web is easy to access; at some point it is, but it comes with the consequences. Some of the risks involving the dark web are:

Security concerns: Hacking, scams, and malware are common on the dark web. It’s risky to download files and click on suspicious websites. It can hack your device and steal your data.

Legal issues: If you engage in illegal practices on the dark web, there can be legal consequences to it. While not everything is illegal, some things can be, so be aware.

Disturbing content: You can come across some disturbing content containing graphics and unsettling things that go beyond your expectations. The anonymous nature of the web can lead you to some very unpleasant areas.

Frauds: Anyone can fall victim to scams on the dark web, where fraudulent activities are very common. Be aware of such frauds and take extreme caution. If you want to engage in any service or with a seller, do proper research.