Understanding the Deep Web

Abstract

This chapter presents the main differences of the surface web, Deep Web and Dark Web as well as their dependences. It further discusses the nature of the Dark Web and the structure of the most prominent darknets, namely, Tor, I2P and Freenet, and provides technical information regarding the technologies behind these darknets. In addition, it discusses the effects police actions on the surface web can have on the Dark Web, the “dilemma” of usage that anonymity technologies present,as well as the challenges LEAs face while trying to prevent and fight against crime and terrorism in the Dark Web.