When we think of the internet, most of us envision a vast network of information accessible with a simple search. However, there exists a hidden part of the web known as the dark web. This secretive realm is not indexed by traditional search engines and requires special tools to access. Within the dark web lies a myriad of dark web websites that cater to a variety of illicit activities.
What is a Dark Web Website?
BBC News (and other leading news sites)
A dark web website is a site that operates on the dark web, a portion of the internet that is intentionally hidden and inaccessible through standard browsers. These sites often promote anonymity and privacy, making them attractive to those seeking to engage in illegal activities without fear of detection.
What are .onion sites?
The rise of cryptocurrency, and in particular Bitcoin, significantly increased the dark web’s use in illegal trade. Users could exchange funds online without sharing credit card numbers or other identifying information. In February 2011 Ross Ulbricht founded what is believed to be the dark web’s first black market, Silk Road. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested Ulbricht in October 2013, but imitators still arise, many much larger.
How to Access a Dark Web Website
Understanding the threats the Deep and Dark Web pose to the sports world
Accessing a dark web website requires the use of special software such as Tor, which allows users to browse the web anonymously. By using this encrypted network, individuals can visit dark web websites without revealing their identity or location.
