The Dark Web is a mysterious and often misunderstood part of the internet. It is a network of websites and online communities that are hidden from search engines and cannot be accessed through traditional means. Instead, users must use special software to access these sites, which are often associated with criminal activity, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and the sale of stolen goods. In this article, we will explore what the Dark Web is, how it works, and why it is so controversial.
 |
| Image source: The Indian Express |
What is the Dark Web?
The Dark Web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. This means that the websites and online communities that exist on the Dark Web are not visible to the general public. Instead, users must use special software, such as Tor, to access these sites. Tor, which stands for "The Onion Router," is free and open-source software that allows users to browse the internet anonymously. It works by routing a user's internet traffic through a series of servers, making it difficult for anyone to trace the user's online activity.
How Does the Dark Web Work?
The Dark Web is made up of websites and online communities that are hosted on servers that are not publicly accessible. These servers can only be accessed by using specific software, such as Tor. Once a user has installed and configured Tor, they can access the Dark Web by typing in a specific URL or by using a directory service, such as The Hidden Wiki.
Once a user is on the Dark Web, they can browse a variety of websites and online communities. These sites can range from innocent forums and social networks to illegal marketplaces and sites that sell stolen goods. Some of the most popular Dark Web sites include The Silk Road, which was a notorious online marketplace for illegal drugs, and AlphaBay, which was shut down by law enforcement in 2017.
The Size of the Dark Web
It is difficult to accurately estimate the size of the dark web, as much of its content is hidden and inaccessible to the general public. However, a 2015 study by researchers at the University of Portsmouth in the UK estimated that the dark web contained around 30,000 sites. This number is likely to have grown significantly in the years since the study was conducted.
Types of Sites on the Dark Web
The dark web contains a wide variety of sites, many of which are not accessible through conventional means. Some of the most common types of sites on the dark web include:
Marketplaces – These are sites where users can buy and sell goods and services, often using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Many of these marketplaces specialize in illegal goods, such as drugs, weapons, and stolen data.
Forums – These are online discussion boards where users can exchange information and ideas. Many dark web forums are dedicated to illegal activities, such as hacking and fraud.
Blogs – These are personal websites where individuals can share their thoughts and ideas. Some dark web blogs are dedicated to controversial or illegal topics, such as drug use or extremist ideologies.
Social Networks – These are sites where users can connect with others and share information. While some dark web social networks are dedicated to legal activities, many others are used for criminal purposes, such as recruiting members for illegal organizations.
Services – These are sites that offer various services, such as anonymous browsing or secure email. While many of these services are legal and provide valuable tools for protecting privacy, others are used for illegal activities.
Why is the Dark Web Controversial?
The Dark Web is controversial because it is often associated with criminal activity. Many of the sites that exist on the Dark Web are involved in the sale of illegal drugs, firearms, and stolen goods. The anonymity of the Dark Web also makes it a haven for hackers and other cybercriminals. In addition, the Dark Web has been linked to a number of high-profile cases of human trafficking and child pornography.
However, it is important to note that not all of the sites on the Dark Web are involved in criminal activity. Many sites exist solely to provide a platform for free speech and anonymity. In fact, some journalists and activists use the Dark Web to communicate with sources in countries where freedom of speech is restricted.
The Dark Web is a mysterious and often misunderstood part of the internet. It is a network of websites and online communities that are hidden from search engines and can only be accessed through special software, such as Tor. While the Dark Web is often associated with criminal activity, it is also used by journalists, activists, and others who value free speech and anonymity. As the internet continues to evolve, it is likely that the Dark Web will remain a controversial and often misunderstood part of the online world.
Sources:
BBC News. (2018, January 31). What is the dark web? Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-30813676
Goodin, D. (2017, July 6). How AlphaBay, Hansa, and the dark web's other big illegal marketplaces are busted. Retrieved from https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2017/07/how-alphabay-hansa-and-the-dark-webs-other-big-illegal-marketplaces-are-busted/
Greenberg, A. (2015, August 24). How the dark web's biggest drug marketplaces are still thriving