What Is The Dark Web Used For

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Understanding the Dark Web

For example, the CIA’s onion address is ciadotgov4sjwlzihbbgxnqg3xiyrg7so2r2o3lt5wz5ypk4sxyjstad.onion, and the nonprofit newsroom ProPublica’s is propub3r6espa33w.onion. As with the other parts of the internet, the dark web doesn’t refer to a specific site or page. If you set up a private and secure network with a group of friends, that could be an example of a darknet. The separation between the surface web and deep web is essential for how we use the internet.

The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires specific software, configurations, or authorization to access. It is often associated with illegal activities, but its use extends beyond that. So, what is the dark web used for? Let’s explore the various applications and implications of this hidden part of the internet.

Common Uses of the Dark Web

While the dark web’s purpose is to provide some anonymity, there are still risks of malicious content or attribution when accessing. The safest way to gain access is by using a secure cyber-service product. Since dark web marketplaces or forums are often monitored by law enforcement, it can be difficult to distinguish between criminal actors and good faith investigators. Be sure to document your plan of operation before gathering information or accessing a criminal forum. Maintain a complete record of activities while on the dark web and have a policy in place for “rules of engagement” when on sites where criminal activity may occur. Despite the benefits, many may have reasonable doubts and concerns about accessing the dark web.

But, MSPs need to worry about more than just their clients’ customers personally identifiable information (PII). Tor is still available today and is one of the best browsers used to access the dark web. The dark web rose organically from multiple sources, such as US Naval researchers David Goldschlag, Mike Reed, and Paul Syverson, University of Edinburgh student Ian Clarke, and MIT graduate Roger Dingledine. As enthusiasm for an anonymous, decentralized internet spread, volunteers leveraged the work of these early pioneers to create the dark web. Darknet crime is growing in Southeast Asia and other parts of the world, as desperate youth pay more experienced dark web criminals for guidance.

That’s where the “dark” part comes in — accessing the dark web requires the use of specific software that keeps you anonymous. In addition, the dark web can’t be accessed through typical browsers such as Firefox or Chrome. It can only be accessed through an encrypted peer-to-peer network connection or by using an overlay network, such as the Tor browser. The browser is free to download and use, and works with all major operating systems. In addition to the Tor browser, users can further protect their identities when accessing the dark web by doing so through a virtual private network (VPN).

David Lukić is an information privacy, security and compliance consultant at idstrong.com. The passion to make cybersecurity accessible and interesting has led David to share all the knowledge he has. So, using programs like Tor and Riffle for anonymous browsing isn’t illegal.

• The dark web would be helpful in this scenario by protecting the right to freedom of speech.
• There is a great deal of privacy and anonymity that comes with using the dark web compared to traditional websites.
• The rise of Bitcoin and other forms of cryptocurrencies have made the dark web more popular because people, primarily criminals, can sell and purchase items on the dark web anonymously using digital currencies.
• However, not all of the users of the dark web are interested in illegal activity.
• To access the dark web, you will need to use specialized software and a VPN like NordVPN that allows you to connect to the network of servers that make up the dark web.

The dark web serves multiple purposes ranging from the benign to the malicious. Here’s a list of its primary uses:

Though different forms of cryptocurrency had been in development since the 1990’s, none stuck until 2009, when one called Bitcoin was released. The 1960’s-1990’s highlighted a growing demand for both private Internet access away from the government eye and easy accessibility of any content that one desired. Though Tor’s creators had good intentions, they could not have known the widespread impact that their invention would have on criminal activity. CD’s, the music consumption method of choice in the 90’s, along with the release of MP3 compression formats, allowed people to easily begin to illegally rip CD’s. Defense Department, sought a computer-based communications system without a central core, which would protect against enemies attempting to black out entire networks by simply destroying its core.

• Privacy Protection:

  The paywall prevents search engine crawlers from accessing this content. Examples include software as a service (SaaS) solutions, paid news websites, and streaming services. The dark internet is designed to provide anonymity by keeping communication private through encryption and routing online content through multiple web servers.

  • Many users access the dark web to maintain their privacy and anonymity.
  • Journalists, activists, and whistleblowers use it to communicate securely.
• Cryptocurrency Transactions:
  • The dark web extensively utilizes cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for transactions to maintain anonymity.
  • Some sites only accept cryptocurrencies, making them unreachable through traditional financial channels.
• Illegal Activities:
  • Unfortunately, the dark web is a haven for illegal drug sales, weapon trade, and stolen data.
  • Marketplaces operate where illegal goods and services are bought and sold.
• Forums and Communities:
  • Various forums allow people to communicate on topics that may be taboo or illegal in their countries.
  • These communities provide support and information on sensitive subjects.
• Whistleblowing and Activism:
  • The dark web provides platforms for sharing information anonymously.
  • Individuals can expose corruption or unethical behavior without fear of retribution.

Risks and Challenges

Accessing the dark web comes with its own set of risks:

1. Legal Consequences: Engaging in illegal activities on the dark web can lead to serious legal repercussions.
2. Scams and Fraud: Many operations on the dark web are fraudulent and can result in financial loss.
3. Malware: The risk of encountering malicious software is high, which can compromise personal devices.

FAQs About the Dark Web

1. Is the dark web legal to access?

Accessing the dark web itself is legal, but engaging in illegal activities is not.

2. How do people access the dark web?

Typically, users access the dark web through specific browsers like Tor, which provides anonymity.

3. What types of content can be found on the dark web?

Content can range from forums and academic resources to illegal marketplaces and explicit material.

4. Can I be tracked while using the dark web?

While it is challenging to track users on the dark web, it is not entirely impossible. Adequate precautions are essential for anonymity.

5. Is everything on the dark web illegal?

No, while there are many illegal activities, there are also many legal uses, including forums for open discourse and privacy-focused communication.

In summary, understanding what is the dark web used for reveals a spectrum of activities. While it provides privacy and forums for discussion, it also hosts various illegal operations. Recognizing these dual facets can help users navigate their approach toward the dark web responsibly.