The Illegal Dark Web: A Closer Look
Some mainstream sites are only accessible via the deep web because of how they customize each page to the user. Streaming platforms are a great example of this, requiring you to enter your login credentials immediately before you can continue to watch your favorite TV shows and movies. Internet criminals buy and sell personal data on the Dark Web to commit fraud.
The illegal dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and is often associated with illicit activities. It is crucial to understand the implications and potential dangers of navigating this hidden part of the web.
What is the Dark Web?
Dark websites can be visited only with a suitable dark web browser, and most dark web URLs are strings of seemingly random letters and numbers — nothing like the easy-to-remember web addresses on the surface web. Finally, the popularity of the dark web with criminals makes it a perfect way for undercover police officers to communicate. Many dark web websites contain only information rather than the ability to buy or sell something. It is true, though, that cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Monero, are often used for transactions on the dark web. When tips come in, following them in all places they lead may necessitate dark web access and help gain information on how bad actors operate.
This was notorious for buying and selling illegal drugs using digital currencies and was shut down by law enforcement in 2013. Since then, new dark net markets have appeared, offering various illegal goods and services. Today, the dark web has expanded and evolved greatly, working with increased sophistication. Although some worry about the dark web’s security, there are many great dark web sites that you can visit safely.
This operating model is what makes the dark web such a valuable and appealing tool for cybercriminals and other people with questionable intentions. To access the dark web, you can’t use Google Search or browsers, such as Chrome or Safari. Instead, you need to use software designed specifically for this purpose, such as Tor or I2P. Using threat intelligence platforms to analyze the threat data gathered from the dark web also enables organizations to defend themselves against attacks more effectively.
The dark web has some legitimate uses, such as people using it to protect their anonymity in countries with heavy censorship or reading news unaffiliated with political parties or agendas. Millions of regular internet users access private databases such as email inboxes and credit card accounts daily. These pages are not indexed by search engines and are protected behind security walls, authentication forms, and passwords on the deep web.
The dark web represents a small fraction of the deep web, which is comprised of unindexed websites not accessible through standard browsers. Here’s a brief breakdown:
- This volunteer-run website keeps no record of your activity and is also protected against malicious attacks and government interference.
- Examples of the deep web include any websites that are behind a paywall or require log-in credentials.
- For these reasons, a shutdown of the dark web by the government is extremely unlikely, said Javier Vargas, VP of research and development at cybersecurity company Lumu.
- Being hidden doesn’t translate into being completely protected from the possibility of tracking, or, when it comes to illegal activities, of risk.
- While countless cybercriminals will often operate their illegal activities outside the dark web (such as in illicit Telegram channels), many dark web forums are still extensively valuable to monitor regularly.
Ahmia is a search engine that can be used to find useful websites on the dark web. It can also be used to view news, insights, and statistics about the Tor network. This is a free software tool that allows users to access the dark web and browse anonymously.
- Surface Web: This is the portion of the internet that is indexed by search engines and accessible to the average user.
- Deep Web: This includes databases, private corporate sites, and other unindexed content that is not typically accessed by search engines. Most of this content is legal.
- Dark Web: A subset of the deep web that requires specific software, configuration, or authorization to access, often associated with illegal activities.
The Tor browser wraps data in different layers of encryption (like an onion) and sends it through a network of ”onion” routers. Each router the data passes through sheds away a layer of encryption and sends the partially decrypted message to the next destination. The process repeats until the message arrives at its intended destination. While this technique increases Tor’s security and keeps the dark web operations anonymous, it slows down the performance. In more technical terms, the dark web is the part of the web where sites are hosted on so-called darknets — computer networks overlaid on other networks. Like regular “surface” sites, dark web sites use internet protocols, but the darknet networks that are overlaid on normal networks can’t be accessed through regular web browsers.
Why is the Illegal Dark Web Popular?
The illegal dark web attracts users for various reasons:
- Anonymity: Users can browse and communicate without revealing their identity, a significant draw for those looking to evade law enforcement.
- Access to Restricted Content: Some individuals seek information or materials that are censored in their countries.
- Illicit Trade: The dark web provides a marketplace for illegal goods such as drugs, firearms, and stolen data.
How To Get On The Dark Web Safely?
Common Activities on the Illegal Dark Web
The activities associated with the illegal dark web are diverse and often dangerous, including:
- Drug Trafficking: Online marketplaces like Silk Road have popularized the sale of illegal substances.
- Weapon Sales: Firearms and ammunition can often be purchased without regulation.
- Human Trafficking: There are illicit services and forums that facilitate and promote this crime.
- Identity Theft: Personal data and social security numbers are bought and sold on various dark web platforms.
- Hacking Services: Cybercriminals offer services to breach secured systems for a fee.
Risks Associated with Navigating the Illegal Dark Web
Engaging with the illegal dark web comes with significant risks, such as:
- Legal Consequences: Law enforcement agencies monitor illegal activities online; participating in such acts can lead to severe legal penalties.
- Security Risks: Users may encounter malware, phishing attempts, or scams that put their personal information at risk.
- Moral Implications: Many activities and content found on the dark web exploit vulnerable individuals and perpetuate crime.
FAQs
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal, but engaging in illegal activities found there is against the law.
How can I access the illegal dark web?
Individuals use specific browsers like Tor, which anonymize their online presence, to access dark web sites.
What precautions should I take if I decide to explore the dark web?
If one chooses to explore, they should consider using a virtual private network (VPN), avoiding sharing personal data, and remaining aware of potential threats.
Conclusion
The illegal dark web poses various challenges and risks, from legal troubles to exposure to harmful content. Understanding its complexities is vital for navigating the digital world safely.
