How Geopolitical Tensions Impact Cyber Security
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access, and is often associated with illegal activities due to its anonymity.
- In 2021, the average American spent over 8 hours on the internet daily.
- There’s a large reading community on the dark web, but  the material can be anything from the Invisible Man to The Anarchist Cookbook.
- Just because a page cannot be accessed by search engines doesn’t mean it’s trying to promote illicit activity.
- You can use a VPN and your existing browser’s private/incognito mode to hide your Tor Browser download.
- It is smaller and more secretive and is known for illegal activities.
It is true, though, that cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Monero, are often used for transactions on the dark web. Also called the darknet, the dark web is much like the broader web was in its early days during the late 20th century. There is a lot of material about getting it working, and not very much to do once one gets there. On the other hand, it is much easier for individuals to start sites and get attention. Tech giants and large media organizations have very little influence on the dark web. However, remaining anonymous can be invaluable to protesters, civil rights groups, journalists, lawyers, and other vulnerable groups.
What Makes the Dark Web Illegal?
While not all content on the dark web is illegal, a significant portion of it is. Here are some reasons why the dark web is often linked to illegal activities:
But this amount of privacy has helped it gain a bad reputation as a forum for those who want to use it for illicit activities. If you’re looking to use the dark web, it’s as simple as installing a private browser, using a VPN, and making sure your computer remains safe and secure. You can access the dark web by installing specific, anonymous browsers, such as TOR. But it can be a little difficult to access information because it doesn’t use an index to locate the desired information.
- Anonymity: Users can browse and conduct transactions without revealing their identity, making it an attractive platform for illegal activities.
- Access to Forbidden Goods: Many illegal goods and services, such as drugs, weapons, and counterfeit currency, can be purchased anonymously.
- Illegal Services: Activities such as hacking services, credit card fraud, and identity theft are commonly offered.
As long as there is demand for anonymity online, the dark web will be here to stay. Even though the dark web saw a rise in illegal transactions in the 2010’s, it served a benevolent purpose in late 2010 during the Arab Spring. Cryptocurrency, a form of digital currency that facilitates transactions anonymously, was the answer to this persisting problem. Though different forms of cryptocurrency had been in development since the 1990’s, none stuck until 2009, when one called Bitcoin was released. The idea for ARPANET arose from a desire to share information over great distances without the need for phone connections between each computer on a network. ARPANET was a computer communications system that later took on a tentacle-like structure that made communicating between devices possible.
If criminals have some of your information and need more, they will target you with various scams to try and get more information. As this is a free feature offered by credit bureaus, take advantage of it. It’s also important to unfreeze or temporarily thaw credit reports when applying for a new credit card. If it sounds like too much work, then it’s best to sign up for a fraud alert. This approach will stop anyone else from opening new accounts in your name. This is because lenders won’t be able to access your frozen credit report to make lending decisions.
After all, it’s only meant to provide anonymity, which isn’t illegal in most regions. Freenet’s release to the public in 2000 helped activists to bring attention to the need for a way to stay anonymous online. It was followed by the Tor network, created by the US intelligence community to communicate in secret. Released to the public in 2004, Tor later became a browser offering easier access to the dark web. Sites on the dark web don’t come with easy-to-remember URLs, and many disappear suddenly. A dark web search engine can help you surf sites on the Tor browser.
Hackers could potentially utilize information found there to commit identity theft or fraud. What makes the dark web distinct from the broader deep web is the fact that dark web content can only be accessed via a special browser. It’s important to note that just because this type of content isn’t on the surface doesn’t mean it’s nefarious or has ill intent.
LoanCare is a sub-servicing entity that assists mortgage loan providers with finance and data functions; they service over 1.5 million customers across the states and beyond. Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) serves a population of about 13,000 across two campuses and dispersed locations. BHCC offers over 100 degrees, including arts, sciences, business, health, law, and STEM opportunities. Electrostim Medical Services Inc. (EMSI) is a healthcare servicer in Tampa, Florida. They create and disperse home electrical stimulation devices, brace accessories, pain management solutions, and physical rehabilitation tools. Effectively responding to cyber threats is all about speed and information.
Common Illegal Activities on the Dark Web
The following are some of the most prevalent illegal activities taking place on the dark web:
- Drug Trafficking: Various drugs can be bought and sold without the oversight of law enforcement.
- Human Trafficking: Illegal sex trade and labor exploitation often use dark web platforms for transactions.
- Fraud and Scams: Various scams are perpetrated, such as phishing schemes to steal personal information.
- Weapons Trade: Illegal firearm sales can take place with limited regulation.
The Role of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies play a significant role in enabling dark web illegal activities:
- They allow for anonymous transactions, making it difficult to trace payments.
- Popular cryptocurrencies used include Bitcoin, Monero, and Ethereum.
- Some markets on the dark web require specific cryptocurrencies for transactions.
Risks of Engaging in Dark Web Activities
Engaging in illegal activities on the dark web comes with significant risks:
- Legal Consequences: Participating in illegal transactions can lead to severe legal repercussions.
- Scams: Many platforms that appear legitimate are, in fact, scams designed to steal money or personal information.
- Exposure to Dangerous Individuals: The anonymity can attract malicious actors, putting users at risk.
FAQs About the Dark Web
Is everything on the dark web illegal?
No, not everything is illegal. While many activities are illegal, some content focuses on privacy, free speech, and political dissent.
How can I access the dark web?
Access typically requires specialized software like Tor, which anonymizes user activity.
Can law enforcement track activities on the dark web?
While challenging, law enforcement can track illegal activities and has successfully shut down many notorious markets.
What should I do if I encounter illegal content on the dark web?
It is advised to report illegal content to law enforcement authorities rather than engage with it.
Conclusion
The dark web serves as a double-edged sword; while it can be a tool for privacy and free expression, it is also a hub for illegal activities. Understanding its complexities ensures that individuals approach this hidden part of the internet with caution.
