Part 1 5 Astonishing Facts About The Black Web/Internet
Understanding the Black Internet
If it’s legal for them to sell your data in plain sight, imagine what cybercriminals are doing on the Dark Web with stolen personal information and their complete disregard for laws or regulations. While most people access the internet through common web browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, and Edge, there are deeper levels of the internet that aren’t accessible by the average user. See how cybercriminals profit from your personal information on the Dark Web. Learn how to protect your data from financial fraud and identity theft. The rise of cryptocurrencies increased the popularity of the dark web, especially for cybercriminals.
The term black internet often refers to the hidden parts of the web that are not indexed by traditional search engines.
And while the dark web isn’t synonymous with illicit activities, it’s undeniably the breeding ground for the internet’s black markets, hacker forums, malware vendors, and other illegal activity. The surface web, which is also called the visible web and the open web, is any website that search engines can add to their database. This includes not only websites and blogs but also online product listings and even public posts on social media. Although the entire dark web is part of the deep web, it isn’t true in reverse.
- Once a user installs a dark web browser on a device, it functions like a regular browser.
- The deep web constitutes over 90% of online content and is inaccessible via search engines.
- You might also have questions about accessing the dark web, as well as questions about safety.
- You may already be aware that malicious actors can use these to harm your credit, engage in financial theft, and breach of your other online accounts.
- IBM Security X-Force, for example, reported that 29% of its ransomware engagements in 2020 involved REvil.
- The darknet is simply an anonymous space on the web that can be abused or appreciated in turn.
Yes, dark web monitoring is a legitimate and critical tool for cybersecurity. It’s a proactive measure that helps reduce false positives -incorrect alerts of danger- and ensures higher quality alerts. This type of monitoring is particularly important for identifying and mitigating malicious targeting and threats that are hidden in the dark web’s secretive corners.
This segment of the internet is notorious for its secrecy, anonymity, and sometimes illicit activities.
What is the Black Internet?
However, there are some positive aspects to them – like everything online, problems do not come from the technology itself, but instead are caused by the ways in which people use it. Illicit activities on the Dark Web span a broad spectrum, from selling stolen personal data to arms trafficking and drug dealing. These hidden sites provide services such as selling stolen credit card and bank account information, hacking tools, and weapons. Being hidden doesn’t translate into being completely protected from the possibility of tracking, or, when it comes to illegal activities, of risk.
For some users — like journalists or whistleblowers — the dark web is about identity protection. It’s where individuals can share anonymous tips with the press on secure drop sites. Special agents like Swensen are looking for the kinds of users who want this full cloak of anonymity in order to mask their illegal activity. Wherever you go online, but especially if you’re on dark web websites, using a VPN helps you secure your data and protect your personal information. Avast SecureLine VPN encrypts all of your internet traffic to block hackers and keeps snoops out. Install Avast SecureLine VPN today to browse safely and securely, wherever your online travels take you.
The black internet encompasses various platforms, networks, and websites that are not accessible through standard web browsing.
However, maintaining security procedures is critical even though these websites are legitimate. Payment for these services is generally made using difficult-to-trace digital currency, such as Bitcoin. Operating Tor is largely similar to operating a web browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome.
Even more of a threat, hackers looking to make a lot of money and profit off people and companies around the world have found a way to do it — fast and at scale. While personal information may seem invaluable to you, cybercriminals trade personal information for a mere few dollars on the black markets that exist on the Dark Web. The Deep Web hosts information that usually requires a username and a password to access, mainly for security and privacy-related reasons. This colossal amount of information exists on the Deep Web (or “hidden web”), where almost all online activities take place. Because not all the information you can access online belongs in the public domain. She’s passionate about Aura’s mission of creating a safer internet for everyone.
Some key features include:
Without a VPN, you could be putting yourself at risk of being hacked or scammed. The dark web contains much of the internet’s illicit content, ranging from drug trafficking to child pornography sites. Tor over VPN requires you to place some trust in your VPN provider but not your ISP, and is best if you want to access .onion websites. VPN over Tor requires you to place trust in your ISP but not your VPN and is best if you want to avoid bad Tor exit nodes.
- Anonymity: Users can browse without revealing their identities.
- Unindexed Content: Websites and pages are not indexed by common search engines like Google or Bing.
- Encrypted Networks: Many parts rely on encrypted connections, making it hard to trace.
Accessing the Black Internet
Accessing the black internet typically requires specialized software.
Some of the most common tools include:
- Tor Browser: A popular choice that allows users to access hidden services.
- I2P: An anonymous layer that provides peer-to-peer communication.
- Freenet: A tool that prioritizes privacy and censorship resistance.
Legitimate Uses of the Black Internet
While the black internet is often associated with illegal activities, it also serves legitimate purposes.
Some of the constructive uses include:
- Whistleblowing: Platforms that allow whistleblowers to leak sensitive information safely.
- Political Activism: Tools for activists in repressive regimes to communicate securely.
- Privacy Protection: Users seeking to protect their data from surveillance.
Risks Associated with the Black Internet
Despite its advantages, navigating the black internet comes with significant risks.
Some dangers include:
- Illegal Activities: Involvement in unlawful exchanges or transactions.
- Scams and Fraud: Increased likelihood of encountering scam sites targeting unsuspecting users.
- Malware: Higher chances of downloading malicious software.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the black internet illegal?
Not inherently, but it contains a significant amount of illegal content and activities.
2. Can I access the black internet safely?
Using anonymizing tools, practicing good security hygiene, and avoiding sharing personal information can minimize risks.
3. What is the difference between the black internet and the dark web?
The black internet is a broader term, while the dark web specifically refers to certain hidden services within that network.
4. Do I need specific skills to navigate the black internet?
Basic familiarity with security tools is helpful, but extensive technical skills are not always necessary.
Conclusion
The black internet is a vast and complex realm of the web that offers both opportunities and risks.
Whether for purposeful anonymity, activism, or exploring hidden content, being aware of the intricacies can help users navigate it more safely.
