WHY IS THE DARK WEB NOT BANNED?

The dark web is notorious for many illegal things happening there: illegal goods, stolen credit card data, or hacking services are sold, and different malicious groups may communicate secretly. Why isn’t it banned to keep us safe?

The Dark Web – artistic impression. Image credit: Markus Spiske via Unsplash, free license

What is the Dark Web?

The Dark Web is a name given to a part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines and is accessible only through specific software that allows for anonymous browsing.

The most common tool used to access the Dark Web is the TOR browser, which hides users’ identities and their online activity from surveillance and tracking by routing connections through multiple encrypted nodes across the globe.

As we already mentioned, the Dark Web is a small segment of the larger “Deep Web,” which includes all parts of the internet that are not indexed by search engines. However, unlike the broader Deep Web, which also contains mundane data like private databases, digital libraries, and members-only websites, the Dark Web is specifically known for its anonymity.

This anonymity has made the Dark Web a haven for a variety of illegal and illicit activities, including the sale of drugs, weapons, and stolen data, as well as a platform for various other criminal services. However, it also serves as a safe space for whistleblowers, activists, and those living under oppressive regimes to communicate without fear of reprisal.

Despite its notoriety, the Dark Web is a relatively small part of the internet, and its user base is made up of both those looking to protect their privacy for legitimate reasons and those engaging in unlawful activities.

The Dark Web is commonly associated with illegal activities. However, it may also be used for good purposes, where it is required to maintain high level of confidentiality of the transmitted data. Image credit: Benjamin Lehman via Unsplash, free license

Is the Dark Web dangerous?

Indeed, the Dark Web can be considered dangerous for several reasons, primarily due to the nature of many activities conducted there and the type of content it harbors.

Here are some aspects that contribute to its dangers:

1. Illegal Activities: The Dark Web is notorious for being a marketplace for illegal goods such as drugs, weapons, counterfeit currency, and stolen personal information. It also facilitates services like hacking, hitmen for hire, and other illicit offerings. Engaging in or even browsing these markets can expose individuals to serious legal risks.
2. Cybersecurity Risks: The anonymity of the Dark Web, while a boon for privacy, also makes it a breeding ground for malware, ransomware, and various other types of cyber threats. Users can inadvertently download malicious software that can steal personal information, encrypt or delete data, or enlist their devices into a botnet.
3. Scams and Fraud: Due to the lack of regulation and oversight, scams are prevalent on the Dark Web. Users can easily fall victim to frauds promising goods or services that are never delivered. The anonymous nature of transactions makes recourse or recovery of losses nearly impossible.
4. Exposure to Harmful Content: The Dark Web contains some of the most extreme and disturbing content available, including explicit adult content, violent images, and even sites that promote terrorism. Exposure to such content can be psychologically damaging.
5. Legal Consequences: Simply accessing certain parts of the Dark Web, especially those involved in illegal activities, can attract attention from law enforcement and lead to legal consequences, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the activity.

However, it’s also worth noting that the Dark Web isn’t inherently dangerous in itself. It provides privacy and anonymity for those who need it, such as activists, whistleblowers, and journalists working in repressive environments. For these users, the Dark Web can be a vital tool for communication and information sharing without fear of persecution.