Related Content
The Tor network also gave hackers, terrorists, and distributors of illegal pornography a secure method of communication. The term dark web first appeared in print in a 2009 newspaper article describing these criminal applications. Websites on the dark web often require a specific proxy server, or you cannot access them. Additionally, the URLs are scrambled, so you can’t easily remember them or track them down. This is to thwart law enforcement who is always trying to get a foothold in the door to regulate the dark web.
If you want to unlock the encryption, you will need to use the right access tools. In March 2017, the congressional research service released an extensive report on the dark web. In August 2017, according to reportage, cybersecurity firms which specialize in monitoring and researching the dark web on behalf of banks and retailers routinely share their findings with the FBI. For example, TOR (The Onion Routing) and I2P (Invisible Internet Project). Because of the abnormal state of encryption, sites are not ready to follow the geolocation and IP of their clients. Thus, communication between darknet users is highly encrypted allowing users to talk, blog and share files confidently.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines, making it less accessible to the average user. It operates on an encrypted network and requires specific software to access. Below, we’ll explore how the dark web works.
After you’ve logged onto the dark web, found a site, and figured out what you wanted to do, how do you buy something then? Chances are you don’t have a credit card you want to input, so you’ll probably need some cryptocurrency. For this guide, we’ll use the Tor Browser as an example, but any other web browser (like Brave) that supports the Tor protocol will work just as well. Other examples of compatible web browsers include the Onion browser, Firefox and Chrome, but the latter two require you to install a separate plugin.
The Structure of the Internet
The content cannot be indexed by them and, in most cases, this is not desirable as they violate the guidelines of the search engines. The information that can be found in worldwide networks by users and search engines is only a small part of what is considered to be the World Wide Web by experts. Estimates assume that search engines or URLs can only reach 1 to 5 percent of all information. As a result, the Deep Web and the Dark Web would be much larger than the Internet we use every day. Lesser known darknets include ZeroNet, a peer-to-peer-based web hosting model developed in 2015 that doesn’t use IP addresses or domains for websites.
The internet can be broadly categorized into three layers:
- Surface Web: The part you interact with daily. Search engines can index this content.
- Deep Web: This includes content that isn’t indexed by search engines, such as databases and private websites.
- Dark Web: A subsection of the deep web that requires special software, like Tor, to access.
The anonymity of the dark web makes it difficult to trust anyone, and users can easily fall prey to scams, phishing attempts, or malware infections. This surveillance is the practice of monitoring activities & information exchanged over the dark web, a section of the internet accessible only through specialized software. This is done primarily by law enforcement agencies & intelligence services, who seek to detect & disrupt criminal & terrorist activity conducted through this web. The dark & deep web has been demonized by the media as a haven for illegal activities & cybercriminals. But, it could also be an irreplaceable tool for cybersecurity professionals. The responsible use & ethical considerations are crucial in utilizing this resource to combat cyber threats.
Security companies use recaptured Dark Web data to even the playing field against fraudsters. This information comes from infected devices, like smartphones and laptops, that allow access remotely to obtain user passwords or other personal data. Consider hiring a Dark Web monitoring service such as Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection to scan the Dark Web for signs that your data was exposed, helping you take steps to secure it if necessary. In addition, ongoing scanning and checks for impostors are provided by this service. When we think of the Dark Web, our first thoughts often turn to illegal marketplaces and extortion scams.
To find sites on the dark web, many people use a site that serves as a directory or “search engine,” such as the Hidden Wiki. So, while these guide sites are essential to finding your destination, you should be very cautious. And if you are visiting deep web sites such as your online credit card portal, use a virtual private network, or VPN. A VPN hides your IP address from snoops and also encrypts your information while online.
Accessing the Dark Web
To navigate the dark web, users typically rely on the following:
- Tor Browser: The most widely used tool for accessing the dark web. It anonymizes user activity by routing it through multiple servers.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): While not strictly necessary, using a VPN adds an extra layer of security by masking your IP address.
- Specialized URLs: Dark web sites often use .onion URLs, which can only be accessed via the Tor network.
How Dark Web Sites Work
Dark web sites employ a number of technologies and practices to maintain their anonymity and security:
- Anonymity: Most dark web sites operate on remote servers and use encryption techniques to keep their locations unknown.
- Peer-to-Peer Networking: Some services rely on peer-to-peer technology, which allows users to connect directly without a central server.
- Cryptocurrencies: Transactions on the dark web often utilize cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, to maintain the anonymity of buyers and sellers.
Uses of the Dark Web
While often associated with illicit activities, the dark web serves various purposes:
- Privacy Protection: Users in oppressive regimes may turn to the dark web to communicate securely and access forbidden information.
- Whistleblowing: Platforms exist on the dark web that allow whistleblowers to share sensitive information without fear of retaliation.
- Illegal Activities: Various markets trade in illegal goods, such as drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
Risks of the Dark Web
- Examples of VMs you can use include Oracle VM Virtualbox, Red Hat Virtualization and Microsoft Hyper-V.
- Although the entire dark web is part of the deep web, it isn’t true in reverse.
- Avast BreachGuard monitors the dark web for data breaches around the clock.
Engaging with the dark web comes with significant risks:
- Scams and Fraud: Many dark web sites are fraudulent, risking financial loss for users.
- Legal Consequences: Accessing or participating in illegal activities can result in serious legal repercussions.
- Malware: The risk of encountering malware is heightened on the dark web, posing threats to user devices.
FAQs about the Dark Web
What is the dark web used for?
The dark web is used for both legitimate and illicit purposes, including privacy advocacy, political activism, and engaging in illegal trade.
Is accessing the dark web illegal?
Accessing the dark web itself is not illegal; however, many activities associated with it can be, especially if they involve illegal goods or services.
Can you browse the dark web safely?
While it’s possible to browse the dark web safely using tools like Tor and a VPN, users must always exercise caution due to the risks involved.
In summary, how does the dark web work? It operates on encrypted networks designed for anonymity, facilitating a range of activities from privacy protection to illegal trade. Understanding its structure, access methods, risks, and uses can help users navigate it more safely.
