Riseup — Tools For Activists And Organizers
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However, there are several black markets on the dark web, the largest being The Silk Road, which authorities shut down with the arrest of creator Ross Ulbricht in 2013. Drugs, weapons, and stolen IP and data are all hot businesses on the dark web, with terabytes of information on offer. Traders cash in on stolen credit card data dumps, initial access points to vulnerable systems, credentials, and intellectual property belonging to companies compromised during cyberattacks. When the dark web is mentioned online, it is usually in tandem with criminal marketplaces and arrests made by law enforcement agencies. As I’ve mentioned, the dark web isn’t just a place of eternal torment, teeming with drug dealers, human traffickers, and a hitman. It’s also used by journalists, advocacy group members, and political refugees in hiding.
Dark Web monitoring is a service provided by Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection, along with an ongoing audit of your digital shadow and constant checks for impersonators. All you need is a service that automatically checks the Dark Web for you. Bitdefender Digital Identity Protection scans the Dark Web to find if your personal information was exposed. Because, as our cybersecurity experts have validated through decades of research and practice, your data has a price. And, yes, some of your data is most likely already in those illegitimate websites, forums, blogs, and data repositories.
For example, I looked up google.com and was able to find a snapshot of Google’s home page from 2008. At ReputationDefender, we’ve learned how to harness the good from it, by monitoring it for our clients. While TOR has many legitimate uses, because of its design, TOR-specific Deep Web sites are also a magnet for cybercrime. But with proper skills, you can easily eliminate any harmful data floating around for eager people to take advantage of.
The Deep Web and Dark Web should not be confused, although both may refer to portions of the Internet. You might use the dark web if you live in a country in which the government censors or spies on online activity. By using the Tor browser to access the dark web, you can visit sites that your government might prefer you not.
Exploring the Deep Dark Web
The deep dark web refers to a segment of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines. It is often conflated with the deep web, which encompasses all parts of the web that are not indexed, including databases, private corporate websites, and other content behind paywalls or login screens. However, the deep dark web specifically refers to the hidden layer, often associated with illegal activities and anonymity.
As mentioned, websites on the Dark Web are usually only accessible through special software known as the TOR network. The TOR network was originally created by the American Navy to protect secret communication between service personnel. Note that connections inside of the Tor network are end-to-end encrypted by default, meaning there is no separate encryption layer necessary as with regular websites.
What is the Deep Dark Web?
The deep dark web consists of sites that are purposely hidden and can only be accessed through specific software, configurations, or authorization. Most notably, the Tor network is used to reach these hidden sites, providing users with anonymity and a level of encryption.
- Ahmia is another secure search engine you can use on the dark web.
- Unpacking these layers of encryption is sort of like peeling an onion.
- The deep web is just that part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines.
- It contains 7,500 terabytes of information, compared with only 19 terabytes of information in the “surface” web.
Characteristics of the Deep Dark Web
- Anonymity: Users can hide their identities and locations, making it a refuge for privacy-seekers.
- Unregulated Content: The content often includes forums, marketplaces, and services that may engage in illegal activities.
- Specialized Tools Required: Accessing the deep dark web typically requires specific browsers like Tor.
- Cryptocurrency Usage: Transactions here often utilize cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin for anonymity.
Navigating the Deep Dark Web
To safely explore the deep dark web, users must take significant precautions:
- Use a VPN: This adds an additional layer of privacy.
- Install Tor Browser: Access is usually through the Tor network.
- Be Cautious: Many sites can be associated with cyber threats.
- Understand the Risks: Illegal activities can lead to severe legal consequences.
Common Uses of the Deep Dark Web
The deep dark web has gained notoriety for a variety of uses:
- Whistleblowing: Secure platforms that allow individuals to expose wrongdoing.
- Discussion Forums: Spaces for sensitive discussions on topics like politics, health, and social issues.
- Illegal Marketplaces: Selling goods and services that are typically out of reach in the conventional market.
- Political Activism: Platforms to organize and discuss activism in oppressive regimes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Deep Dark Web
1. Is the deep dark web illegal?
Not all content on the deep dark web is illegal; however, many activities that occur there are unregulated and can be illicit.
2. How can I access the deep dark web safely?
Using a VPN alongside the Tor browser is the standard method for safe access. Always take necessary precautions to protect your identity.
3. What should I avoid on the deep dark web?
Avoid engaging in illegal purchases, sharing personal information, or downloading files from unknown sources to protect against scams and malware.
4. Why is the deep dark web significant?
It showcases the extremes of internet use, highlighting issues of privacy, freedom of speech, and cybersecurity.
Conclusion
The deep dark web remains a controversial and intriguing part of the internet landscape. While it serves important purposes in terms of anonymity and freedom of expression, it also poses considerable risks. Understanding its dynamics is crucial for those considering exploring this hidden web.
