What is the dark web, and why do people use it? 

For most of us, the internet is like a familiar old friend, a constant companion useful for everything from shopping trips to special events. But below the surface, there's a hidden layer of the net you've likely never seen. Verizon Security Advisor experts are well-versed in this mysterious part of the internet. So if you've ever been curious about the deep web and how it operates, you're in the right place.  


This guide will help you understand what the dark web is, and what you should know about it. 


How was the dark web created? 

The dark web originated in the mid-1990s when computer scientists at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory created a platform for intelligence officers to share files anonymously. To provide better cover for these official communications, the platform was intentionally opened to the public, flooding it with information. This platform developed into what is known as the Tor network (short for "The Onion Router"), named for the many layers of encryption it uses to protect information. 


What’s the difference between the dark web, the deep web, and the surface web? 

While it’s common to confuse the dark web with the deep web, they are distinctly different. Here’s a breakdown: 


The Surface Web: Also known as the “open web” or “clearnet,” this is what you know as the World Wide Web. It's the version of the internet that you access via Google®, Bing®, or any other search engine, where information is cataloged and searchable, including your location. Sites on the surface web are “indexable,” which means they can be parsed by search engines. 


The Deep Web: This unindexed portion of the internet consists of content that cannot be found by search engines. Access typically requires login credentials or specific permissions. The deep web makes up 90 to 95% of the internet and includes information such as: 


• Email accounts 
• Company intranets 
• Medical records 
• Credit card accounts 
• Membership websites 
• University library databases 


The Dark Web: A small segment of the deep web, the dark web is intentionally hidden and can only be accessed with specialized browsers. It's not indexed by standard search engines. 

What can be found on the dark web? 

While the dark web is often associated with illegal activity, that’s not all it can be used for.

Here’s what you can find on the dark web: 


• Hidden websites: The dark web contains sites with complex, untraceable addresses, typically ending in ".onion," which are designed to be accessible only through specialized browsers like Tor. By providing anonymity, these sites help users avoid detection. 

• Illegal goods and services: Dark web marketplaces facilitate the sale of drugs, firearms, counterfeit currencies, and stolen credentials. Hackers also offer their services, selling tools and information to breach computer systems and networks.  

• Criminal activities: Forums and platforms for organizing cybercrimes, such as ransomware distribution and identity theft, or offering tools for breaching computer systems and networks. 

• Anonymity tools: Platforms offering privacy-focused communication, including encrypted messaging services and VPNs. This includes resources for journalists and activists, who need secure communication and anonymity to share information without fear of surveillance or censorship.  

• Legitimate content: Despite its reputation, the dark web also hosts authentic, credible content. Forums, blogs, and websites discussing various topics can be found here. The dark web offers greater anonymity than the surface web for whistleblowers, human rights activists, and alternative news sources that prioritize privacy and security, especially in countries with restricted internet access or individuals living under oppressive regimes. 


We hope this guide has helped you understand the dark web a little better. While this hidden, often misunderstood piece of the internet has a reputation for hosting illegal activities, we should recognize that the dark web also serves legitimate purposes, providing a space for privacy and anonymity. Understanding the dark web’s complexities helps us learn how to weigh the risks factors carefully, so we can consider safer alternatives for online privacy whenever possible.

Security questions or concerns? Verizon Security Advisor experts can help you understand the dark web and keep private information safe. We’re here to help. Call or chat with us today.