Staff Reporter /
In the rapidly expanding digital and internet landscape, millions of websites are launched every day.
Researchers estimate that the total number exceeds a billion, and as of November 2024, DigitalSilks reported that “there are approximately 1.1 billion websites worldwide, with 200 million active sites and about 252,000 new websites created daily”.
However, these websites constitute only a small portion of the World Wide Web (WWW), which is composed of three (3) main parts: the surface web, the deep web, and the dark web.
The surface web is the visible portion of the internet where most users spend their time. It is indexed and easily accessible through search engines, making its content available to the general public.
In contrast, the deep web constitutes the majority of the internet, estimated to make up approximately 90% to 96%.
This vast segment contains a wealth of information that is intentionally concealed from public view due to privacy and security considerations, such as private databases, emails, and personal accounts.
While most browsing occurs on the surface web, users also access parts of the deep web, for example, when logging into secure sites like bank accounts.
Within the deep web lies the dark web, a deliberately hidden layer that requires specialised software like Tor to access and is often associated with anonymous and clandestine activities.
The dark web is often associated with a range of illicit activities, including cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, and the sale of stolen data. Most people never access the dark web, as it is known for its connection to criminal enterprises.
These activities involve trading leaked or stolen information, compromised credentials, and various illegal or unlicensed goods and services. Unlike standard websites, dark web sites typically require users to know specific addresses and access them through specialised browsers and applications.
This setup enables criminals to operate discreetly, quickly disappear if necessary, and maintain anonymity. Additionally, transactions on the dark web are predominantly conducted using cryptocurrencies, which help facilitate anonymous payments.
It is important to note that the dark web itself is not inherently illegal and can offer legitimate advantages. For instance, it can serve as a secure space for journalists, activists, and whistleblowers seeking refuge and protection.
Designed to prioritise anonymity, the dark web provides a high level of privacy for users. However, this same feature can also make it a haven for illicit activities, which contributes to its controversial reputation.
In conclusion, the dark web continues to pose significant security risks, particularly when managing sensitive and confidential information. It is crucial to prevent personal and confidential data from ending up on the dark web or any other unauthorised layers of the internet.
Both individuals and organisations must implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect all digital assets.
To enhance safety, it is advisable to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), employ Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) encryption, choose reputable browsers, and only access legitimate sites when exploring the dark web.
In the photo: The dark web is a haven for illicit activities.
[Information by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN)]
