What Are The Types Of Threats On The Dark Web?
This can include anything from drugs and guns for sale to surveillance conscious blogs or anonymous government critics. Although it’s not necessary for the layperson to visit the Dark Web often, if ever, every consumer is at risk of identity theft and should have a basic understanding of how the encrypted internet functions. Businesses should be aware that data from hacked companies and the government is easy to find and purchase on the encrypted internet. A number of companies, including Tripwire, ID Agent, and Massive, monitor the Dark Web and help businesses respond to Dark Web data leaks. Further, if you try to buy something on the dark web — even if it’s not illegal — there’s a chance you’ll be scammed.
But the so-called “visible” Internet (aka surface web or open web) — sites that can be found using search engines like Google and Yahoo — is just the tip of the iceberg. Think of the dark web, then, as a small subset of the deep web that regular browsers can’t access. When you access the dark web, you’re not surfing the interconnected servers you regularly interact with. Instead, everything stays internal on the Tor network, which provides security and privacy to everyone equally. But you can face criminal charges if you use the dark web to sell or purchase illegal firearms, drugs, pornography, stolen passwords, hacked credit card account numbers, or other items.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines, making it less accessible to the average user. To comprehend how does the dark web work, it’s essential to explore its structure, technology, and the various activities that take place within it.
The US government initially created Tor as a tool for different military organizations to exchange messages and information anonymously. The surface web is part of the iceberg above the water, visible and accessible to everyone. Then the deep web is right under the water – it’s less accessible, but basic swimming skills would be enough to get there.
- The thesis project of Ian Clarke, a student at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, the Freenet was intended as a way to anonymously communicate, exchange files, and interact online.
- The most common way to access the dark web or deep web is by using the Tor network, and doing so is not nearly as complicated as you might think.
- “But it still exposes a vast number of individuals to phishing scams, corporate fraud, and social engineering,” he says.
- Anonymous network layer designed for censorship-resistant, peer-to-peer communication.
Structure of the Internet
Revealing personal information on the dark web leaves you vulnerable to being scammed or hacked. Just like the surface web, the dark web sees tons of phishing attempts to steal personal data. A good antivirus scanner will scan your device and the pages you visit for threats in real time. This means that you’ll be aware of threats before they can do some big damage.
The contents of the deep web are decentralized and fragmented, and there is a vast amount of information on the deep web that is not accessible to the general public, so how can you find this information? This is where indexing and search engines come into play, as they facilitate access to deep web content. It would be great to note that legal and ethical standards need to be exercised while exploring this part of the internet.
In January 2018, the Department of Justice created a joint enforcement team focused on dark web opioid sales. State and local agencies have also engaged in collaborative dark web enforcement initiatives, the report said. Entrapment — Concerns were expressed over the possibility of legal actions for entrapment brought by web users conducting business on dark web marketplaces created by law enforcement, the report said. The risk can arise when authorities must impersonate criminals to establish trust with criminals on the dark web. Sensitive corporate and personal data ends up on the dark web in several different ways.
The internet can be divided into three main layers:
- Surface Web: This is the part of the internet that is easily accessible and indexed, comprising the vast majority of web pages that can be found through search engines like Google.
- Deep Web: This portion contains content not indexed by standard search engines, including databases, private corporate websites, and subscription services.
- Dark Web: A small segment of the deep web, the dark web is intentionally hidden and requires specific software to access.
Accessing the Dark Web
To understand how does the dark web work, one must recognize the means of access, specifically through specialized software. The most common tool used is the Tor browser.
- Tor (The Onion Router): A free software that enables anonymous communication by routing internet traffic through a network of volunteer relays.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): While not always necessary, using a VPN can add an extra layer of anonymity and security when accessing the dark web.
How Does the Dark Web Work?
Here are the fundamental components that explain how does the dark web work:
- Anonymity: The dark web relies on anonymizing technologies like Tor, which helps to obscure users’ IP addresses.
- Hidden Services: Websites on the dark web typically use the .onion domain, providing services that are not accessible through standard web browsers.
- Peer-to-Peer Networking: Many dark web platforms function on a decentralized basis, allowing users to interact without a central server.
- Cryptocurrency Transactions: Most transactions on the dark web are conducted using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin to preserve anonymity.
Activities on the Dark Web
The dark web hosts a myriad of activities, ranging from legal to illegal. Some common activities include:
- Illegal Trade: The buying and selling of drugs, weapons, stolen data, and other illicit goods.
- Hacking Services: Offering tools and services for cyberattacks.
- Whistleblowing Platforms: Safe spaces for individuals to disclose sensitive information without fear of repercussion.
- Forums and Communities: Spaces for discussing various interests, including legal and illegal topics.
Risks Associated with the Dark Web
Engaging with the dark web can come with significant risks, including:
- Legal Consequences: Many activities on the dark web are illegal; users may face prosecution.
- Scams and Fraud: The dark web is rife with scams, including fake services and products that can lead to financial losses.
- Exposure to Harmful Content: Users may inadvertently encounter disturbing or illegal content.
FAQs
What is the difference between the dark web and the deep web?
The deep web includes all web content not indexed by traditional search engines, while the dark web refers specifically to a portion of the deep web that requires special software for access.
Is it safe to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web comes with risks. While tools like Tor provide anonymity, users can still encounter threats such as scams or illegal activities.
Can I browse the dark web using a normal web browser?
No, normal web browsers cannot access dark web sites, as they require specific configurations and software like the Tor browser.
In conclusion, understanding how does the dark web work involves exploring its unique technologies, the activities it facilitates, and the risks associated with it. While it offers anonymity and a platform for various interactions, it remains a complex and often dangerous segment of the internet.
