Understanding the Dark Web
The internet, which we are familiar with, is just the tip of the iceberg. Beneath the surface lies the a hidden part of the internet which is called dark web. That is not only fascinating but it is notorious as well. Today I will try to unearth the mysterious underworld and will uncover its layers to explain that what exactly the dark web is. I will also explain its uses and risks which are associated with it.
What is the Dark Web?
The dark web is actually a subset of the deep web. It is intentionally made hidden and is inaccessible while using normal standard web browsers like chrome, edge, firefox e.t.c. Therefore, to access these hidden sites, one requires specialized software, like TOR (The Onion Router). On normal/surface web, search engines like Google indexes all the content posted on internet. Whereas, on the other side, the dark web is deliberately left unregulated. The reason behind this idea is to maintain the anonymity of the users.
Dark Web is Not Deep Web
Often the dark web is confused with the deep web, but they are not the same. Although the deep web also includes non-indexed content like private databases and password-protected sites; but, the dark web is a special segment of deep web where anonymity is the priority. That is why the it is considered to be a safe heaven and a hub for illicit activities.
Uses of the Dark Web
It is true that the dark web has become famous for its illegal activities, but the reality is that everything on it is not unlawful. Below are some common lawful uses:
1. Privacy and Freedom of Speech:
Internet is not a place where anyone can maintain its privacy, because everything on internet is indexed by search engines. Therefore, activists and journalists commonly use the dark web to communicate securely. This is very common in countries where Governments have placed heavy censorship over internet content like China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan e.t.c.
2. Online Marketplaces:
On the dark web all kinds of services, tools and data is being traded whether it is legal or illegal. However, illegal marketplaces like “Silk Road” have destroyed its image due to which it is now considered to be a market for illicit activities only.
3. Hacking Services:
In today’s modern technological warfare, hacking is not something that can be executed on its own. Hackers require tools and services to execute their attack. Dark web serves as a hub for selling hacking tools and services to the hackers to successfully target the victims.
4. Cryptocurrency Transactions:
To maintain anonymity, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are the most used mode of payments for transactions on dark web.
Risks Associated with the Dark Web
Cybersecurity Threats
The dark web is considered to be a safe haven for cybercriminals. All types of data like stolen credit card, hacked accounts, and personal information are readily available and are commonly sold here. Therefore, businesses and individuals must remain vigilant to these potential attacks and should protect their sensitive data from being leaked.
Malware and Scams
While using dark web clicking on unknown links can result into malware infections or phishing attacks. No matter you are new or experienced users, it may affect you.
Legal Implications
Dark web is always on the radar of Law Enforcement Agencies and they actively monitor illegal activities there. Therefore, only visiting the dark web can generate an alert to LEAs and can cause the user to go through rigorous interrogations.
How to Minimize Risks Associated with Dark Web
1. Monitor Dark Web Activities:
There are tools available which can track data breaches and can monitor available data on dark web to prevent identity theft. Here is list of top three dark web scanner services: Firefox Monitor, Aura, Identity Guard, Intelligence X, IDStrong. Businesses should take advantage of these services and tools to apprehend the cyber attack.
2. Educate Employees:
I always say that digital world is ever evolving. Therefore, regular trainings to update employees about the latest trends of cyberattacks and threats coming from dark web are important. These trainings and education to the employees will also enable them to recognize that how to recognize latest phishing attempts.
3. Strong Security Measures:
Strengthening the castle is best measure to prevent the intruders to gain access to the network. In this regard implementing two factor authentication (2FA), endpoint security, and encryption are considered to be best defense against potential threats.
Today’s Important Takeaway
Understanding the dark web is essential not only for cybersecurity professionals but also for businesses and individuals. On one hand it serves as a tool for privacy but on the flip side is that it is a threat when if it is misused. Hence we must keep a balance of its potential with precaution to avoid any unforeseen attack to the system.
Future Perspective of Dark Web
Ethical use of the dark web for free speech and anonymity will continue to be a topic of global debates. With the evolution of cybercrimes, the dark web is likely to remain a double edged weapon. Law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts are regularly investing in advanced technologies, like A.I. and machine learning. They use these technologies to track the attacks and minimize the risks.
For more insights into cybersecurity, visit my blog on online scams.
Conclusion
Dark web is a complex platform and most of the time this segment of the internet is misunderstood. By understanding its structure and risks which are associated with it individuals and businesses can better address to its challenges. Although it can serve as a heaven for free speech, yet it is a potent point of consideration for Law Enforcement Agencies.
You can also visit TOR Project’s official site to explore its legal and legitimate ideas of launching.
