What Is Dark Web | Dark Web Explained In 5 Minutes | Dark Web Explained
The dark web is a part of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard web browsers. It is a subset of the deep web, which includes all parts of the internet that are not indexed by traditional search engines. While the deep web consists of legitimate and legal content, the dark web is known for hosting activities that often involve anonymity, privacy, and sometimes illegal transactions.
Here are key aspects of the dark web:
Access and Anonymity:
Accessing the dark web requires specific software, such as Tor (The Onion Router), which enables anonymous communication by bouncing internet traffic through a series of volunteer-operated servers.
Users on the dark web often remain anonymous through the use of encryption and other privacy-focused tools.
Content and Websites:
The dark web hosts a variety of websites, forums, and marketplaces. While some sites may provide legitimate services, others are known for illegal activities.
Legal content on the dark web can include privacy-focused forums, blogs, and communication platforms that may be used by individuals in countries with restrictive internet policies.
Illegal Activities:
The dark web is infamous for hosting illegal activities such as the sale of drugs, firearms, stolen data, hacking tools, counterfeit currency, and more.
Cybercriminals may use the dark web to sell or exchange information, conduct illegal transactions, and collaborate on malicious activities.
Marketplaces:
- Dark web marketplaces operate similarly to e-commerce websites but often deal in illegal goods and services. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are commonly used for transactions due to their relative anonymity.
Cybersecurity Threats:
The dark web is a hub for cybercriminals who may sell or exchange hacking tools, malware, and other cyber threats.
Stolen data, including personal information, credit card details, and login credentials, may be bought and sold on the dark web.