Understanding the Dark Net
Malware and scams are scattered like landmines around the dark web. And with many unfamiliar looking sites on the dark web, it’s harder to distinguish safe websites from shady ones, and easier to fall victim. Dark websites can be visited only with a suitable dark web browser, and most dark web URLs are strings of seemingly random letters and numbers — nothing like the easy-to-remember web addresses on the surface web. Surfshark also offers a complete security package if you choose to go with Surfshark One or One+ subscriptions. Both of them include antivirus, webcam protection, and real-time data breach alerts on top of the Surfshark VPN package. The websites mentioned above are a good starting point for your first dark web experience.
Financial record-keeping system that maintains the anonymity of the user’s identity, cryptocurrency balances, and transactions. Acronym for Initial Access Brokers; Individuals or gangs that have access to networks either by elite credentials or by a possession of known vulnerabilities and sell access to malicious actors. Actions to jeopardize and the misuse of digital devices to compromise them and damage them and their networks, typically to extract information for malicious purposes.
Acronym for Invisible Internet Project; Encrypted, anonymous network that allows for protected, uncensored communication via peer-to-peer network communications. Virtual cryptocurrency wallet that is always connected to the internet and cryptocurrency network and is used to make cryptocurrency transactions. Content from the surface web that has a high overlap with the darknet and deep web community, including mirrors of darknet sites. (Also referred to as Exploit Packs); Collection of exploits that serve as a toolkit for cybercriminals to attack vulnerabilities.
The dark net is a part of the internet that isn’t indexed by traditional search engines. Unlike the surface web, which is accessible to anyone with an internet connection, the dark net requires specific software and configurations to access. The most common tool used is Tor, a browser designed to facilitate anonymous communication and browsing.
Acronym for Ransomware-as-a-Service; Business model for cybercriminals to hire ransomware operators to launch ransomware attacks on their behalf. A free peer-to-peer instant messaging service for chat, voice, video and file transferring that is end-to-end encrypted designed to protect users from surveillance. Application that interrupts the connection between the client and the server in prder to hide the IP address to make the internal network more secure against cybercriminals. Type of fraudulant social engineering for data collection designed to trick users into revealing sensitive information to what appear to be trustworthy sources via email.
- Dark web search engines and forums like Reddit can help you find reliable dark websites, and you’ll need to use a dark web browser to visit them.
- For example, law enforcement agencies and journalists use the darknet to keep in touch with whistleblowers, while others use it to protect their identities from government and private surveillance.
- Lots of criminal activity happens on the Dark Web because it offers the anonymity that enables hackers and scammers to go undetected — but only up to a certain point.
- Tor is a web browser used to stay anonymous online or access dark web.
- If you want to learn all about privacy protection or cryptocurrency, the dark web has plenty to offer.
- Most e-commerce providers offer some kind of escrow service that keeps customer funds on hold until the product has been delivered.
Characteristics of the Dark Net
Several key features define the dark net:
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Still, this is not the same as the Dark Web, a term you’ve likely seen around. The Dark Web is yet another fraction of the internet that’s not equivalent to the Deep Web. She’s passionate about Aura’s mission of creating a safer internet for everyone.
Device that processes requests and provides a service to clients in a network. A person who lacks the skills to create original malicious software code, reuses code from other developers, or uses pre-installed applications. Slang used in fraud and hacking community to detail the steps required for conducting fraud or program exploitation for financial gain. Acronym for Software as a Service; software delivery and licensing that is available via a subscription service. An internet protocol which routes network packets between a client and server using a proxy server.
- Anonymity: Users on the dark net typically remain anonymous, both in terms of their identity and their location.
- Specialized Access: The dark net is accessed through specific software like Tor or I2P. These tools help mask users’ IP addresses.
- Hidden Services: Websites on the dark net often have .onion or .i2p domains, making them inaccessible through regular web browsers.
IT Security Incident
Uses of the Dark Net
The dark net is often associated with illegal activities, but its uses are varied:
- Privacy Protection: Activists and whistleblowers use the dark net to communicate securely and protect their identities.
- Illicit Trade: The dark net is known for marketplaces dealing in illegal goods such as drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
- Forums and Communities: Many users engage in discussions on niche topics that may not be welcomed on the surface web.
- Research Purposes: Journalists and researchers explore the dark net to study criminal activity and other online behaviors.
Risks Associated with the Dark Net
While there are legitimate uses, engaging with the dark net comes with significant risks, including:
- Legal Consequences: Accessing illegal content can lead to serious legal repercussions.
- Cybersecurity Threats: Users are at risk of encountering malware and other security threats that can compromise their devices.
- Fraud: Many services in the dark net operate fraudulently, making it easy to be scammed.
FAQs about the Dark Net
1. Is all content on the dark net illegal?
No, not all content is illegal. There are legitimate uses, like privacy tools, activist communication, and educational forums.
2. How does one access the dark net?
Accessing the dark net typically requires using the Tor browser or similar software that anonymizes user activity.
3. Can I be traced while using the dark net?
While the dark net provides a higher level of anonymity, it is still possible for users to be traced under certain circumstances.
4. What should I know before exploring the dark net?
Before exploring, understand the risks, including legal implications and the potential for encountering scams or malicious content.
Conclusion
The dark net remains a complex and often misunderstood part of the internet. While it offers anonymity and serves specific communities, it is essential to approach it with caution and awareness of the inherent risks involved.
