What Is The Dark Web, And How Do You Access It?
Understanding the Dark Internet
Basically, it’s a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by search engines. As an average internet user, you won’t come across the dark web since you need a special browser to access it. It’s certainly not something you need to stress about in your day-to-day browsing, and you shouldn’t let it scare you off the internet.
- Buyers and sellers flock to the dark web because they can trade credit card data, log-in information, forged documents, pirated videos, hacking services, drugs, weapons and stolen company data.
- Users shouldn’t click on links or download files they’re unfamiliar with on the dark web as this could lead them to dangerous pages or install malware, such as a virus or worm, directly on their device.
- At the time, the internet was still young, and tracking people was easy while staying anonymous was not.
The Tor encryption tool is what enables this, making it nearly impossible to track those operating or visiting these websites. The part we can see and interact with on an everyday basis is merely the tip of this colossal virtual expanse; much of it remains concealed from plain sight. These hidden parts are often referred to as the Hidden Web and the Obscure Web – two parts of the internet that are wrongly assumed to be similar. This essay provides a disambiguation between these two entities, giving a clearer view of this concealed cyber terrain.
The term dark internet often conjures images of illicit activities and hidden dangers. However, the reality is more complex. The dark internet refers to parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines and require specialized software to access.
What is the Dark Internet?
However, it is challenging to measure how widespread the dark web is due to its decentralized and obscure nature. Bart is Senior Product Marketing Manager of Threat Intelligence at CrowdStrike and holds +20 years of experience in threat monitoring, detection and intelligence. Similar to using a standard web browser to access the open web, the act of using Tor or a dark web browser to access the dark web is not illegal in and of itself. It is illegal to perform illegal acts on the dark web, regardless of the level of anonymity provided by the platform. The dark web can help protect users’ privacy in ways the surface web often fails to do.
You can use the browser to access the same sites you access on the Surface Web, but you will likely run into two problems. A good example of this was the crackdown on the use of VPNs in China that took place in 2015. This made it exceptionally hard for people in China to communicate with one another in private, and this led to an uptick in Chinese-language communication on the Dark Web. People often use the analogy of an iceberg when talking about the Dark Web.
The dark internet consists of various networks and sites that prioritize anonymity and privacy. Unlike the surface web, which is accessible to everyone, the dark internet is deliberately hidden from conventional access. Here are some key characteristics:
- Anonymity: Users often employ encryption and privacy protocols to protect their identities.
- Access: Specialized software, like Tor or I2P, is needed to navigate these networks.
- Content: The dark internet hosts a variety of content, including forums, marketplaces, and websites that are often associated with illegal activities.
China uses what is known as the “Great Firewall” limit access to popular sites for this exact reason. The risk of being a visitor to this content could lead to being placed on a watchlist or immediate targeting for a jail sentence. In case you’re wondering how to access the deep web, chances are you already use it daily.
People often use the dark web to keep their online activity anonymous. And this increased protection is what can motivate cybercriminals to use the platform for illegal activity. Browsers like Tor, an open-source and free software, allow people to access dark websites where these goods are available, like a digital marketplace. These websites may look similar to any other surface or deep website you’d encounter.
The term “dark web” refers to a section of the deep web that is targeted by most cybercriminals, who perform illegal activities within the hidden site of the web known as the darknet. The Dark Web’s technology was developed by the US government in the mid-1990s. Initially, It was built for spies and secret services to transmit and receive communications anonymously. However, this mindset, as well as the dark web’s design, created a secure place for illegal activities. Although some worry about the dark web’s security, there are many great dark web sites that you can visit safely. We tested dozens of dark web websites for this article and shortlisted the top 26 dark web links you should check out.
How Does the Dark Internet Function?
The mechanics of the dark internet rely on a decentralized network of nodes. Here’s a brief overview:
- Tor Network: The most popular method for accessing the dark internet is through the Tor network, which routes traffic through multiple nodes, ensuring anonymity.
- I2P: Another network that provides anonymous communication and hosting services. It functions differently than Tor but offers similar privacy advantages.
- Hidden Services: Websites on the dark internet often use .onion or .i2p domains that are inaccessible through standard browsers.
Common Misconceptions about the Dark Internet
Many misconceptions surround the dark internet. Here are some clarifications:
- It’s Only for Criminals: While some illegal activities occur, there are also legitimate uses for privacy-focused communication, such as activism and journalism.
- It’s Unregulated: Although less regulated than the surface web, some dark internet communities self-police to prevent harmful behavior.
- Dangerous by Default: Not all content is harmful; many resources on the dark internet provide valuable information.
Risks of the Dark Internet
Accessing the dark internet comes with potential risks, including:
- Malware: There is a higher likelihood of encountering malicious software that can harm your device.
- Scams: The anonymity can create opportunities for scams and fraudulent activities.
- Legal Issues: Engaging in illegal activities can lead to serious legal consequences.
FAQs About the Dark Internet
1. Is the dark internet illegal?
No, accessing the dark internet itself is not illegal. However, many activities that take place there can be illicit.
2. How do I access the dark internet safely?
To access the dark internet safely, use reputable software like Tor, remain aware of the risks, and avoid engaging in illegal activities.
3. Can the dark internet be used for positive purposes?
Yes, many individuals use the dark internet for activism, whistleblowing, and engaging in discussions that require confidentiality.
Understanding the dark internet reveals a layered, multifaceted world that encompasses both dangers and benefits. The key lies in navigating this space with caution and awareness.
