What is the Dark Web?

The dark web is a hidden part of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines like Google or Bing. It requires special software, such as Tor (The Onion Router) or I2P (Invisible Internet Project), to access.

Key Features of the Dark Web:

1. Anonymity – Users and websites are masked using encryption and multiple layers of routing.
2. Access via Special Browsers – Common browsers like Chrome can’t access the dark web; you need Tor or similar tools.
3. Illegal and Legal Activities – While it’s known for cyber crime, the dark web is also used by journalists, whistleblowers, and those in oppressive regimes to communicate safely.

Dark Web vs. Deep Web vs. Surface Web:

• Surface Web – The regular internet that search engines can index (e.g., news sites, social media).
• Deep Web – The part of the web that is hidden behind logins, like banking portals or private databases.
• Dark Web – A subset of the deep web, intentionally hidden and accessible only with special tools.

What’s on the Dark Web?

• Marketplaces – Selling legal and illegal goods (e.g., stolen data, drugs, weapons).
• Hacking Forums – Places where hackers share or sell exploits.
• Anonymous Communications – Used by activists, whistleblowers, and journalists.
• Illegal Services – Cyber crime operations like ransomware-as-a-service.

Is the Dark Web Illegal?

• Accessing the dark web is not illegal, but many of the activities on it are. Law enforcement agencies monitor the dark web to track cyber criminals.