Dark Web

The Dark Web is a hidden part of the internet that you can’t find using well known search engines like Google or Bing. You need special software, like Tor, to get access, and it gives users more Privacy and anonymity.

The Dark Web is part of the Deep Web, which includes all the stuff online that isn’t searchable on Google. The Dark Web itself is made up of encrypted websites that need special tools to visit. Some people use it for Privacy, like whistle-blowers or activists, while others use it for less legitimate stuff. Like anything in life, there are good parts and bad parts.

The Dark Web matters because it helps people stay anonymous and avoid censorship, especially in countries with strict internet controls. For cyber security folks, it’s useful to keep an eye on the Dark Web to spot data leaks or potential threats. This is how we hear of some data leaks and hacks from the news.

You get on the Dark Web by using software like Tor, this is a web browser like Edge, Chrome or Firefox, but has certain differences to keep users maintain secure browsing. This hides your identity by bouncing your internet traffic through a bunch of servers around the world. This gives you Privacy but makes it tough for others to track what’s going on.

Good examples of Dark Web use include things like SecureDrop, where whistle-blowers can safely and securely send info to journalists who's sources want to remain anonymous. It’s also used in countries where free speech is restricted, and the only source of information is from mainstream media.

The biggest issues with the Dark Web are its use for illegal activities and how hard it is to regulate because of the anonymity. But it's important not to paint the whole Dark Web as evil, since there are legit reasons to use it, too.